Gibson Tenor TG50 Sunburst 1937

The Gibson TG50 was produced from 1934 through 1957, and this example dates from 1937. The model originally featured a smaller body, but the 16-inch format seen on this guitar was introduced in 1935. Based on the L50 model, it features a beautiful sunburst finish. The TG50 is the tenor version of the L50, with four strings tuned in fifths. Thanks to its distinctive sound, the tenor guitar carved out its own place in folk music.

This Gibson TG50 takes us back to an era that is all too often overlooked: the 1920s and 1930s, when jazz music was gaining popularity. Many guitarists played banjo as a rhythm instrument at the time, simply to be heard. During the 1930s, musicians gradually moved from the four-string banjo to the six-string guitar. The tenor jazz guitar was introduced during this same period, making for a fascinating instrument that was played extensively by musicians such as Eddie Condon.

Several cracks in the top have been repaired and stabilised. The finish on the back of the headstock has also been touched up. Otherwise, the guitar shows the finish checking and playwear you would expect from an instrument of this age. Thanks to its DeArmond pickup, it can also be played amplified.

This guitar has been carefully inspected for condition and playability, then set up to our Gold Standard by a luthier. We make sure it arrives in your hands exactly as it should: sounding its best, playing effortlessly and ready to be enjoyed from the very first note.