Description
Description & Specifications
1931 Gibson L-2 – Argentine Grey – Gold Sparkle Binding
We present an original and exceptionally rare 1931 Gibson L-2 in the highly sought-after Argentine Grey finish with Gold Sparkle binding, built in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
History
The pre-war Gibson L-2 is among the most desirable early flat-top guitars produced by Gibson. Argentine Grey examples were built in extremely limited numbers between 1930 and 1932. Beyond the rarity of the original Argentine Grey finish, it is even more uncommon to encounter an L-2 featuring Gold Sparkle binding around the body and soundhole rosette. Only very few examples were produced with this striking decorative detail. The flat-top guitar retains the original “The Gibson” pearl logo and the distinctive “Jester” flame inlay, both correct and desirable features for the period.
Condition
The guitar features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides and the exceptionally light construction that defines Gibson’s early L-body flat-top guitars. It is built with lightly tapered X-bracing, resulting in a tone that is open, resonant, warm, expressive, and remarkably loud for its size.
This early 1931 example is set up beautifully and plays cleanly and comfortably all the way up the neck. Beautiful dark rosewood fingerboard. Overall, it is in very clean condition, showing honest nicks, dings, and natural cosmetic wear consistent with age. There are no crack repairs or overspray, and the guitar retains its original finish and components, with only the professionally performed maintenance listed below.
The mahogany neck has a comfortable round profile, measuring 1 3/4″ at the nut and approximately 2 3/8″ string spacing at the bridge, both typical for the period. Currently strung with .011–.052 strings, it is set up with a smooth, effortless action.
The guitar retains its original open-gear tuners, all functioning smoothly. The original bridge remains in excellent condition and includes the original bridge pins.
It is accompanied by a non-original 1970s Gibson hardshell case.
Professionally Performed Maintenance
Neck reset
Original bridge reglued (performed during neck reset)
New frets
New nut
New bone saddle (performed during neck reset)
We are more than happy to provide further photos upon request. Simply contact us by email or phone for details, including close-up and internal photos of the instrument.
