The Gibson L-2 flat-top model (as opposed to the L-2 archtop) is a lovely small-bodied guitar offered from 1929 to 1935. It has a 14 3/4" wide body, and a slightly arched top and back. During this period all examples of this model were built with the neck and body meeting at the 12th fret. The L-2 flat top was normally built with rosewood back and sides, but during in 1931 they switched to mahogany for a year. The top originally came in the "Argentine gray" sunburst finish; this one has been expertly refinished in the classic Gibson teardrop sunburst, maintaining the gold sparkle purfling around the body and outer rosette ring that was a feature on the original.
The overall structural condition of this guitar is excellent. The top is quite clean with the refin, while the back and sides have quite a few scratches from regular playing/wear. There is a repaired back crack (one cleat visible) and a few other modifications appear to have been done: the fretboard has been replaced, and the neck appears to have been thinned and refined a bit. It is currently extremely comfortable to play, thanks to both the neck shape and the way the guitar is set up. The tone is truly wonderful; a big, full sound more reminiscent of the larger-bodied J-45. This is a very cool guitar that any one of us here in the shop would be thrilled to have.
Comes with a molded plastic hardshell case. Serial #9769
SPECS
Top: Spruce
Back & sides: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Nut width: 1 3/4”
Scale length: 24 ¾”
Bridge: Rosewood
Lower bout: 14 ¾”
Headstock logo: "The Gibson" pearl inlay, 6-point flame pearl inlay