Here is a 1964 Gibson SJ, a square-shouldered dreadnought from the early-1960s Gibson transition period, when the brand moved toward bolder body designs influenced by models like the Dove while still retaining its classic acoustic voice. It represents a distinctive era in Gibson’s acoustic history at the dawn of the modern rock and folk movement.
This example features a solid spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides, producing a warm, full-bodied tonal character with strong midrange presence, deep throaty bass, and rich chordal bloom. The square-shoulder dreadnought design enhances projection and gives the guitar a powerful, immersive acoustic voice.
This example features vintage Gibson construction details including the original square-shoulder body design, classic binding, and traditional hardware layout. The neck offers a comfortable, familiar feel with excellent responsiveness across all positions, making it well suited to both strumming and flatpicking styles.
Playability is excellent, with a stable setup and strong structural integrity supported by regular professional servicing. The guitar remains highly responsive under the fingers, delivering a dynamic and expressive playing experience with plenty of headroom.
Condition is excellent and largely original, showing only light cosmetic wear consistent with age. The top shows a few small cracks in the original bridge area and a slight separation beginning between the bridge and top, though neither affects performance or tone. The body remains very clean overall, with only light marks near the lower bout, a small mark around the 9th fret, and general minor surface wear. The original tuners function well and the truss rod operates correctly.
Specifications:
Year: 1964
Country: USA
Model: Gibson Southern Jumbo
Body: Mahogany back and sides with Sitka spruce top, slope-shoulder dreadnought-style body
Neck: Mahogany
Scale: 24.75"
Bridge: Original Gibson plastic bridge
Tuners: Original Kluson Deluxe
Case: Non-original Stamford hard shell case
