In 1936, Gibson scored a runaway hit with the J-35. Because it was so affordable (only thirty-five bucks compared to a cool c-note for a D-28!), it allowed Depression-era musicians the opportunity to experience the magic of a Gibson without breaking the bank. It was so successful that they decided to expand their line in 1939 to include an upgraded version that came with some high-end appointments without raising the price too much. Thus, the J-35's big brother--the J-55--was born.
The J-55 cost fifty-five dollars, and that extra twenty bucks got you some cool upgrades, including an ebony "mustache" bridge, an ebony fingerboard, and a bound neck. Though it only remained in production for four years, it earned a sterling reputation with vintage guitar enthusiasts because of its rarity, huge sound, and elegant good looks.
Serial Number: 22262008
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Specifications:
Brand Gibson
Model Custom Shop 1939 J-55
Type Slope-Shoulder Dreadnought
Finish Color Faded Vintage Sunburst
Finish Type Thin VOS Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Top Wood Solid Thermally-Aged Adirondack Red Spruce
Back & Sides Wood Solid Mahogany
Neck Wood Mahogany
Neck Joint Compound Dovetail
Neck Shape Luthier's Choice AJ
Neck Dimensions .890 1st - .960 9th
Fretboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlays Mother-of-Pearl Dots
Scale Length 25.5"
Width at Nut 1.77"
Nut Material Bone
Binding Single-Ply Top, Single-Ply Back
Tuners Open-Backs with Cream Buttons
Bridge Ebony Moustache
Saddle Bone
Case Hardshell Case