Description
Description & Specifications
1944 Gibson J-45 Banner – Sunburst
We present an original 1944 Gibson J-45 Banner in its original Sunburst finish. Made in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
This vintage flat-top acoustic guitar is completely crack-free and delivers an outstanding sound and playing experience. During wartime, Gibson used alternative tonewoods for their guitars. This model features a full, rounded mahogany neck profile with an adjustable truss rod (many Banner-era Gibsons do not include this). The fretboard is made from beautifully dark rosewood. Back, sides, and top are all solid mahogany — used due to wartime spruce shortages. The guitar showcases a rich, wide, dark brown sunburst top and a deep brown finish on the back and sides. It also features scalloped bracing.
The strong neck displays beautiful playwear, along with some minor nicks, dings, and other cosmetic signs of use. Overall, the original finish is remarkably well-preserved with stunning vintage-style finish checking. The original open-back tuners are fully functional and turn smoothly. A small vintage horse water-sticker is present on the top — it can be removed with water, but we think it adds character and prefer to leave it intact. An old strap hook was also added; we do not recommend using it and will leave the choice of removal or retention to the next owner.
Repairs by a Professional Luthier
- The original small Gibson bridge has been reglued.
- Neck reset, so it has the perfect action and the best playability you can get.
- New frets, new bone nut and new bone saddle.
