Description
Description & Specifications
1959 Gibson J-160E – Sunburst
We present an original 1959 Gibson J-160E in its original Sunburst finish. Made in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
History
This 1959 Gibson flat-top stands as a remarkable example from a pivotal era in the company’s legacy. With only 179 units shipped that year, according to Gibson Shipping Totals, it remains one of the rarer production years. Introduced as a companion to the earlier CF-100E (launched in 1951), the J-160E gained lasting popularity and stayed in production until 1978. Its blend of acoustic resonance and electric amplification made it a favourite, most famously used by John Lennon during the early Beatles years.
Condition
This instrument is in exceptionally clean and original condition, with only minor signs of play such as small dings and light wear. The original Sunburst finish remains vivid and beautifully preserved. There are no crack repairs. The guitar features a laminated spruce top with ladder bracing, solid mahogany back and sides, triple binding on the top, and single binding on the back. The one-piece mahogany neck has a medium-fat profile and a comfortable nut width of 1 11/16 inches, paired with a standard 24.75-inch scale length. The bound dark rosewood fingerboard is adorned with pearl trapezoid inlays. The headstock is immaculately preserved, featuring an inlaid pearl “Gibson” logo and crown motif.
Originality
This rare and historically significant 1959 J-160E remains fully original with the exception of replaced plastic tuner buttons. It retains its original ‘single-line’ Kluson Deluxe tuners with single-ring shafts; only the buttons have been replaced. A strap button has been added at the heel of the neck. The guitar features the original single ‘cover-less’ P-90 pickup with six individually adjustable pole pieces and strong output. Tone and volume are controlled via two gold plastic bell knobs located on the lower treble bout. The factory order number is stamped on a wooden plate at the neck block inside the body.
Includes the original Lifton hardshell case, with all latches and the handle in perfect working condition.
Repairs done by a respected and accomplished luthier:
- Strap button has been installed on neck heel.
- Original bridge has been reglued.
- Original tuners (with replacement buttons) has been reinstalled on the guitar. It had Grovers once, but the original tuners are back on with no extra or enlarged holes.
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.
