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The Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200 Jumbo Reissue stands as a monument to acoustic guitar craftsmanship. Known historically as “The King of the Flat-tops,” this meticulous recreation captures the essence of an era when Gibson acoustic instruments first established their legendary status.

This premium instrument features hand-selected flame maple for the back and sides, providing not only stunning visual appeal but also the powerful projection and clarity that made the original SJ-200 a favorite among professional musicians. The Thermally Aged Sitka spruce top—a process that simulates decades of natural aging—delivers the rich, mature tone typically found only in vintage instruments that have been played for generations.

The guitar’s most striking visual elements include its iconic four-bar mustache bridge, engraved tortoise pickguard, and mother-of-pearl graduated crown inlays that adorn both the rosewood fingerboard and headstock. These artistic touches complement the guitar’s commanding presence, making it as much a visual masterpiece as it is a sonic powerhouse.

The two-piece maple neck features a comfortable round profile that supports extended playing sessions, while the multi-ply binding on both top and back adds refinement and protection to this investment-grade instrument. Each guitar ships in a period-correct case, ensuring both safe transport and authentic vintage presentation.

Guitar Specs

The SJ-200 Legacy

The SJ-200 holds an unmatched position in acoustic guitar history since its introduction in the late 1930s. Originally designed as Gibson’s response to the need for greater volume in pre-amplification days, the SJ-200 became known as the “King of the Flat-tops” due to its commanding presence both visually and sonically.

The 1957 version represents a particularly significant year in the model’s evolution, featuring refinements that would define the instrument’s classic form. This Custom Shop reissue faithfully recreates these historical details, from the distinctive mustache bridge to the hand-selected tonewoods that provide the guitar’s signature voice.

Why Choose the Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200?

• Authentic Vintage Tone: The Thermally Aged top delivers the mature, open sound typically found only in decades-old instruments
• Unparalleled Craftsmanship: Hand-built in the Gibson Custom Shop with meticulous attention to historical accuracy and premium materials
• Powerful Projection: The jumbo body size and maple/spruce tonewood combination provides exceptional volume and clarity
• Distinctive Aesthetics: From the crown inlays to the mustache bridge and tortoise pickguard, every visual detail honors the original 1957 design
• Investment-Grade Quality: Beyond its musical capabilities, the limited production and historical significance make this an instrument that will likely appreciate in value

Perfect For: Serious collectors, professional recording artists, and discerning players seeking an heirloom-quality instrument with historical significance. The jumbo body size delivers powerful bass response and impressive volume, making it ideal for rhythm playing and vocal accompaniment. While the premium price point places this in the collectible category, it’s built to be played—offering the opportunity to own a piece of Gibson’s golden era with modern reliability.

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