1940s JUMBO-55

Gibson / 1940s JUMBO-55

The JUMBO-55, produced from around 1939 to 1943, is an interesting guitar where individual instruments can be identified by their headstock shape, bridge, and other features depending on the year. While sharing specifications similar to the J-45 or Southern Jumbo among round-shoulder models, it possesses a distinct presence and look.

—Open Mustache Bridge

While some JUMBO-55s feature a three-dimensional bridge like the SJ-100, this particular instrument employs the rosewood open mustache bridge seen on models like the SJ-200.
Additionally, its individually adjustable saddles per string is a specification distinct from other round-shoulder models.

The 16-inch round-shoulder top is made of spruce.
As expected of an instrument over 80 years old, it shows crack repairs, scuffs and dents from years of playing, and weather checking. However, it has been thoroughly reinforced and remains fully functional, producing a crisp yet powerful sound.

Unlike the J-45 or J-50, it features a fire-stripe pickguard similar to the SJ-100.

Mahogany is used for the sides and back. Cracks repaired over years of use, along with scratches and dents, enhance its vintage character.
The mahogany's tight grain indicates the use of high-quality wood.

The ebony fingerboard features mother-of-pearl dot position markers, another distinguishing point among round-shoulder models.
Additionally, the fingerboard sides are adorned with ivoroid binding.

The mahogany neck has a comfortably shaped thickness, fitting snugly in the hand without feeling awkward.

The neck heel shows repair work where the strap pin hole was filled.

The headstock features a distinctive shape. While the commonly known Gibson headstock, the JUMBO-55, is also seen on the market, the stair-step headstock like this one was a shape adopted on some models starting around 1939.
Interestingly, the SJ-100, which shares a similar headstock, also debuted in 1939, making this a fascinating commonality.

The tuning machines are Kluson open-back tuners.

What do you think?
Examining the detailed specifications, you can sense the presence of a round-shouldered model like the SJ-200 or SJ-100, while also appreciating its premium look.
This specification of the JUMBO-55 is quite rare on the market, making it a very valuable piece.

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE:
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 42mm
SCALE: 650mm
CASE: Original Hard Case

[Condition]
- As expected for an instrument over 80 years old, it shows overall signs of use and repair history, but it has been thoroughly restored and remains a capable instrument.
- Sound is clear with no muffled tones or buzzing; playing condition is excellent.
- String height at the 12th fret: 6th string side 2.4mm, 1st string side 1.9mm
- Adjustable saddle allows for raising or lowering the string height.
-Repaired crack on upper right side of soundhole.
-Repaired crack along pickguard edge on lower right side of soundhole.
-Repaired crack on lower left side of soundhole.
- Two crack repairs under the bridge.
- Two crack repairs on the upper left side of the body.
- Crack repair on the left side waist section.
- Crack repair on the upper right side of the body.
- Crack repair on the right side waist section.
- Crack repair on the center-right side of the back.
- Crack repair near the right waist area of the back.
- Crack repair near the center of the back.
- Crack repair on the center-left side of the back.
- Three crack repairs near the lower-left side of the back.
- Filled strap pin mounting hole on the heel of the neck.
- Repair for a break on the heel of the neck.

[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]

[Secure Mail-Order Service]
Since we cannot offer customers the opportunity to try instruments before purchasing, we provide a 6-day trial period after delivery.
Please try the product thoroughly at home. If you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
*Customers are responsible for both outbound and return shipping costs.