By C.

The Gibson ES-150 is a well-known and rather historically important model in the world of Gibson instruments. Launched in the mid 1930s, this hollow-body electric guitar revolutionized music, becoming the first commercially successful ‘electric Spanish’ guitar. Revered for its rich heritage and influential design, the ES-150 played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of jazz, blues, and r&b. Today we’re pleased to feature this 1939 Gibson ES-150, in original (and delightful) sunburst finish!

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Crafted with exquisite attention to detail, this ES-150 boasts a hollow arched top body constructed from quality maple and paired with a warm-sounding solid spruce top. Its distinctive sunburst finish, elegant F-holes, and adjustable rosewood bridge not only add to its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its unique tone.

One of the defining features of the ES-150 is its single-coil pickup, a groundbreaking innovation for the time period. This pickup, situated near the neck, captured the guitar’s resonant tones and transformed them into electrifying sounds that could be amplified, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of music.

This ’39 shows a bit of light cosmetic playwear, with some small nicks and dings throughout, but is in overall great shape for a guitar built during World War II. Of course, as it is finished with nitrocellulose lacquer, there is a bit of lacquer checking on the guitar as one would expect. It’s also a very original example, with a replacement pickguard and one small wire holding the pickup cover being the only non-factory components. The guitar also includes its original hard shell Geib “airline” case in very good condition.

This ES-150’s smooth, comfortable soft ‘V’ shape neck profile and professionally dressed frets make it a delight to play, allowing musicians to effortlessly explore the guitar across the entire fingerboard. Its versatility and ability to produce both mellow, velvety tones and vibrant, cutting sounds makes it a favorite among musicians seeking expressive versatility.

Renowned artists such as Charlie Christian, one of the pioneers of jazz guitar, famously adopted the ES-150, propelling its popularity further. Christian’s innovative use of the guitar showcased its capabilities, solidifying its place in musical history. Equipped with the original “Charlie Christian” pickup, this ES-150 embodies all the tonal qualities that these guitars are famous for. If you’re looking for “that” particular sound then look no further. This one has it.

Though the original ES-150 production ceased in the mid-20th century, its legacy remains deeply embedded in the world of music. Its influence can still be felt in modern iterations and inspired subsequent guitar designs, leaving an indelible mark on the evolution of electric guitars.

This guitar stands not only as a demonstration of Gibson’s masterful craftsmanship of the 1930’s but also as a symbol of innovation that continues to resonate with musicians and enthusiasts, reminding us of its enduring impact on the soundscape of music across several generations. It carries with it a long legacy of musicality, and in the world of archtop electrics, is deservedly one of the most revered and celebrated models. If you’re on the hunt for a rare vintage Gibson archtop that you can actually play and enjoy for years to come, consider this example as a strong contender.