1938 Gibson – L-5 – ID 5988

The Gibson L-5 is considered perhaps the most significant archtop guitar in jazz history. As early as the 1930s, it set the standard for high-quality jazz guitars and was played by numerous greats of the swing and jazz eras. The 1938 model is among the most sought-after pre-war vintages: At that time, the L-5 already featured the large 17-inch “Advanced Body” and the long scale length, which give it its powerful, open sound and tremendous projection.
This model dates from 1938 and impresses with its wonderfully well-broken-in response. The hand-carved spruce top and solid maple body deliver the crisp, fast attack and warm, complex tone that continue to make the L-5 a benchmark among acoustic archtop guitars to this day. Weighing just 2,772 grams, it swings with exceptional freedom and liveliness.
It's in good condition and tells the story of an instrument that has been played for decades—exactly the kind of patina you'd want in a genuine pre-war Gibson.
The guitar comes in a later, non-original case.
An original pre-war Gibson L-5 is far more than just an outstanding jazz guitar today—it is one of the most sought-after large American vintage instruments and is in a class of its own, both in terms of sound and history.

✅ Model: Gibson L-5
✅ Year built: 1938 (pre-war)
✅ Made in USA
✅ Body width: 17" Advanced Body
✅ Top: Solid spruce, hand-carved (Carved Spruce)
✅ Back & Sides: Solid, hand-carved maple
✅ Neck: Maple
✅ Fingerboard: Ebony
✅ Mother-of-pearl block inlays
✅ Original trapezoid tailpiece, gold-plated
✅ Original floating bridge made of rosewood (not subject to CITES—antique)
✅ Weight: 2,772 grams
✅ Factory Order Number (FON): 862 B
✅ Condition: Good
✅ Non-original suitcase included