By C.

Who doesn’t love a vintage Gibson flat top? Especially one that looks stunning, sounds incredible, and is a dream to play. Well, we’ve got one here for you to feast your eyes on. New to IVG and available now in our shop, this 1963 Gibson Southern Jumbo

Do you have a vintage guitar or bass you’d like to sell? Contact us here

The Gibson Southern Jumbo, often referred to simply as the “Southern Jumbo” or “SJ,” has a storied history that dates back to the mid-20th century. Renowned for its rich tone, robust build, and elegant aesthetics, the Southern Jumbo holds a special place in the hearts of guitar enthusiasts, collectors, and musicians alike.

Introduced in 1942, the Southern Jumbo was Gibson’s answer to the popular “dreadnought” body style, which was originally pioneered by Martin. The Southern Jumbo was essentially a more deluxe version of Gibson’s J-45, featuring enhanced aesthetics and appointments that set it apart. The initial design aimed to cater to the growing demand for loud, powerful acoustic guitars suitable for both rhythm and lead playing, particularly in the genres of country, folk, and early rock and roll.

This ’63 Southern Jumbo features a large, square-shouldered dreadnought body, which contributes to its deep, resonant sound. The top is made from solid spruce, a wood known for its excellent tonal properties and ability to project sound effectively. The back and sides are crafted from mahogany, providing a warm, balanced tone with a strong mid-range presence. This combination of spruce and mahogany has become a standard in acoustic guitar construction, valued for its versatility and rich sound.

One of the key distinguishing features of the Southern Jumbo is its decorative appointments. The guitar sports a sunburst finish which gives it a classic, vintage look. The finish is in very good condition, with some minor dings and scratches and general signs of playwear throughout. The neck is made from mahogany and topped with a lovely dark brazilian rosewood fingerboard, featuring split parallelogram inlays that add a touch of sophistication. Additionally, this Southern Jumbo is adorned with multi-ply binding on the top and back, a bound fingerboard, and a distinctive tortoiseshell pickguard with a unique design.

The Southern Jumbo is celebrated for its playability and distinctive sound, and this example speaks true to that. The neck has a comfortable profile that appeals to a wide range of players, from fingerstyle guitarists to aggressive strummers. The scale length of 24.75 inches provides a slightly softer feel, making it easier to bend notes and play complex chord shapes.

Did you know we also buy collections? If you need to sell multiple pieces at once quickly and easily, send us an email or give us a call for more info

Tonally, the Southern Jumbo excels in providing a balanced and powerful sound. The combination of a spruce top and mahogany body produces a warm, full-bodied tone with clear highs, robust mids, and a tight, punchy low end. This makes the guitar suitable for all kinds of different musical styles. The Southern Jumbo’s ability to cut through a mix while maintaining a rich, warm tone has made it a favorite among recording artists and live performers. This ’63 surely won’t disappoint in the sound category, as its one of the best sounding SJ’s we’ve had in quite some time!

Throughout its history, the Gibson Southern Jumbo has been associated with numerous legendary musicians. Notable players include Hank Williams and Woody Guthrie, both of which are often seen with a Southern Jumbo in iconic photographs. The guitar’s robust build and powerful sound made it a favorite among country and folk artists who needed an instrument that could deliver both on stage and in the studio.

In the modern era, the Southern Jumbo continues to be a sought-after instrument for both vintage guitar collectors and contemporary musicians. Gibson has released several reissues and modern interpretations of the Southern Jumbo, maintaining the guitar’s classic features while incorporating modern enhancements. These updates ensure that the Southern Jumbo remains relevant and desirable in today’s diverse music scene.

The Gibson Southern Jumbo has it all. A rich history, distinctive aesthetics, and versatile sound that have made it a beloved instrument among guitar enthusiasts and musicians. This one in particular is truly a winner, and we don’t expect it to last long. Whether you’re looking for an original vintage Gibson for the studio and light strumming around the house, or a sturdy tool to enhance your songwriting craft, this Southern Jumbo will inspire and captivate anyone in its presence with its blend of tradition and striking sound for the modern era. Its legacy as one of Gibson’s most iconic acoustic guitars is firmly cemented, ensuring that it will continue to be cherished for generations to come.

With 4 stores across Southern California, we’re always buying! Not sure what your instrument is worth? Bring it by the shop or schedule an appraisal online