1968 Gibson J-200, Sunburst

Big, Bold and Beautiful nicely describes the persona of the world famous, iconic, Super Jumbo Gibson J-200 guitar. Long ago, back in 1940 or so, Gibson dubbed it "King of the Flattop Top Guitars," and it went on to prove it was worthy of the title. These are very solidly built guitars. The general construction and features of these modern-era models are large, 17 inch, circular shaped lower bouts with maple backs and sides. The curvy body is also outlined with multi-ply bindings. These feature double X-braced spruce tops, adorned with ornately engraved flower motif pickguards, a popular model feature that has endured the test of time. The necks vary but are usually 2 or 3-piece maple construction with bound Rosewood fingerboards and Pearl, pineapple shaped neck inlay with fancy, pointed fretboard ends.
Another beloved trademark of the model is the Mustache shaped bridge, which on this era model is made of Ebony. This guitar has a preferable glued-on pickguard; however, I have seen some guitars of the 1968 era that have them screwed-on and covered by Pearl dots, and All have Gibson's bolt-reinforced bridge design.
This example has Keystone tuners, which eventually changed back to Grovers sometime shortly after.
A bound headstock with crown inlay and Gold hardware adorn the guitar as well, all adding to its majestic vibe!
This clean example retains it's original factory Orange label.

Reportage

I have examined, tested, serviced and set-up this instrument and found it to be factory-correct, unmolested and factory-original in every way. The guitar plays very nicely, and the neck is in healthy condition as are the frets. The nut is a wide 1 11/16," and the neck is a comfy and sensible C-shape.
The guitar is VERY nicely preserved, as both the Top and Body are crack-free and luckily, no one has ever installed a neck heel area "strap button," a personal peeve of mine. The guitar shows only minor signs of wear and usage. Globally, there are various small and insignificant dings, light scratches, and marks to report. There are No cracks or repairs that have ever been made or needed. The appearance and coloring of the Sunburst have a very pleasing tone. The combination of materials, age, and condition all contribute much to the guitars' overall curb appeal, it has aged gracefully and has a very warm patina and vibe.

The 17 inch CASE is Black Tolex with Yellow lining and is era correct. It is in excellent matching condition with a fully-functional handle, latches, and correct Brass hinges, as well as having its Gibson logo badge intact.
The guitar has just been set up with D'addario EJ-16, 12-53 Phosphor Bronze strings.

Comments

I often don't attempt to describe SOUND. I find it challenging and difficult to describe whether or not any guitars' sound is "GOOD." That seems hugely dependent on each players touch, approach, expectations and their own criteria. In other words, if I say that this one really sounds great or is really "rocking" (as many vendors do), I feel it has NO useful value to prospective buyers. Since it's my opinion and I certainly could be biased as the "seller," I believe that only we as individuals can decide if something is to our liking or works for us. So I will spare you the silly-seller hype of which I too don't appreciate reading, I see no value or help in that type of approach.

I acquired this beautiful J-200 long ago. I remember having many J-200 guitars come through my store, and I have bought and sold many dozens of these throughout my store career. After purchasing this example, something about it caught my eye, and I decided not to sell it simply because I liked the look and vibe of it! Sometimes we collectors don't need any other reason to want a guitar!
This guitar is now 50 years old and has been in my collection for more than 25 years and has been spared all of the "circulation" that most vintage instruments being offered online today have undergone. If this model appeals to you, you may consider adding this nicely preserved example to your herd as I did long ago.
Please inquire.

Details

Serial # 950366
Nut Width:  1  11 / 16"
Scale:  25.5"
Weight:  6 lbs. 02 oz.
Case:  Correct Black Tolex with Yellow lining
My "Overall Condition" Rating:  8.75 out of 10

Offered at: SORRY, this has been SOLD
Includes domestic U.S. shipping and guitar-specialty insurance that I provide
(for International shipping options, please inquire)


I accept payment via Bank Wire Transfer or online payments via PayPal,
up to $5000.00. Any amount over that and all International purchases will need to be paid via Bank Wire.
All instruments have a 48-hour approval which does not start until the instrument arrives to you safely.
I only use New, Heavy-Duty shipping cartons and New packing materials.
I care about the instruments that I offer as most have been in my possession for 20-30 years.
I want my instruments to arrive safely, their continued preservation and Your satisfaction matter to me.