1955 Gibson Southern Jumbo

by Don
(Rhode Island)

Need a base value of what the current market is like for this guitar. I would grade it a strong 7 out of 10. Just came back from the shop. Set up and new bone saddle, re-button tuners and replaced pick guard because old one was falling apart. Two surface cracks on top that do not go through to the inside. Frets are excellent(may have had a fret job at some point). Bridge may have been replaced in the early 1960's because it had the adj type saddle. Back is in excellent condition with no issues such as buckle rash etc. FON stamped inside starts with " W" c. 1955. Tone is amazing one of the better ones I've ever heard. Must be the aged wood. Action is low at just a tad above 3/32" at the 12th fret.Has Gibson case probably from the 1960's.Tried to upload some pics but it's telling me they are too large.Send me an email for pics.

ANSWER

Hi, Don--

Here is the general info:

SJ (SOUTHERNER JUMBO/COUNTRY WESTERN)
- spruce top, round soundhole, black pickguard, two-stripe bound body/rosette, mahogany back/sides/neck, 14/20-fret bound rosewood fingerboard with pearl parallelogram inlays, rosewood bridge with white pins, blackface peghead with pearl banner logo inlay, three-per-side nickel tuners, available in Sunburst finish, mfg. 1942-1978.

The pricing info:

1955-1962 Round Shoulder
Excellent $4,500 - 5,500
Average $2,750 - 3,250

The Blue Book prices are based on ORIGINAL condition. The replacements will lower the value, especially the bridge replacement. There is no way to be sure how much without actually seeing the guitar.

Hopefully this information will give you some guidelines as to the value.

Lynne