1945 Gibson J-45 Banner
Here’s something you don’t see every day: a WWII “Banner” J-45 in fantastic original condition. Spruce top Banners are hard to find and only getting harder — certainly in this shape.
No FON stamp, which points to a 1945 build — the final year of the legendary “Only a Gibson Is Good Enough” banner era. Spruce top, mahogany back and sides and a very comfortable one piece mahogany neck with truss rod — not the gigantic multi-piece necks from earlier in the run.
All original except the nut, saddle and frets: it got a pro neck set and refret, so it plays like it should. No top cracks, no neck cracks, no heel or end block cracks — just one small crack on the back that doesn’t go through to the inside. The tuners have mis-matched metal gears, most likely just how it left the factory: wartime! Heavy finish checking throughout and some flaking on the neck — honest wear, tons of mojo, and unnoticeable in the hand.
This one is an absolute joy to play — killer tone, records beautifully, the sound only an 80 year old acoustic can produce. To be honest: we feel honored just holding a piece of history like this. It’s why we do this! A holy grail for players and collectors alike.
More details:
- Solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
- One piece mahogany neck with truss rod
- Banner logo "only a Gibson is good enough"
- Pro neck set and refret — new nut and saddle
- Original bridge plate in great condition
- Original tuners with mis-matched metal gears
- Heavy finish checking — honest wear, pure mojo