Vintage 1968 Gibson J50 Natural Acoustic Electric Guitar

Gibson’s Dark Horse - The guitar manufacturer’s best kept secret, the J-50, isn’t dark at all–it’s blonde. When you talk about Gibson acoustics, it’s rare to begin with any other model than the J-45. The slope-shoulder dreadnought is Gibson’s most famous, adored for its versatility, with warm bass, excellent projection and ease of play, and a deep sunburst finish that’s become an iconic visage associated with 20th-century music ranging from folk to blues, country, and back. But in its shadow is an equally important model that can–and should– be mentioned in the very same breath: the Gibson J-50. Played by a host of acoustic luminaries like Jorma Kaukonen, John Hiatt, Brad Paisley, and Bob Dylan, the J-50 is every bit as versatile as the J-45, and it’s reputation as an insider secret makes vintage models a collector’s dream. Producing the exact same legendary tone that filled popular American recordings for decades in the J-45, the J-50 is essentially the exact same guitar. And yet it’s not, which is perhaps its best quality of all.