The early 1930s are widely regarded as the pinnacle of the acoustic guitar's golden era, and this Gibson HG-00 is a wonderful example of why.

Built during the height of the Hawaiian music boom, the HG-00 shared its compact body dimensions with the legendary L-00. Unlike most L-00s, however, the HG-00 retained its 12-fret neck joint. This design places the bridge deeper into the center of the lower bout, resulting in a richer low end, greater resonance, and a remarkably warm, complex midrange response.

Originally intended as a Hawaiian guitar for slide playing, the HG-00 was built with reinforced scalloped X bracing to handle the higher string tension of period Hawaiian setups. As a result, this guitar offers impressive dynamic headroom and projection. It responds beautifully to both delicate fingerstyle playing and a strong flatpick attack, delivering a powerful and focused voice with excellent clarity.

The Factory Order Number 3464 dates this guitar to late 1934 or possibly early 1935. It retains its original sunburst finish, original firestripe pickguard, and original bridge and saddle. The tuners have been replaced over the years. While the guitar may benefit from a neck reset in the future, it remains entirely playable as it is.

Cosmetically, there is a filled strap button hole on the neck heel. Some residue is also visible on the upper back of the body, likely caused by a reaction with a guitar stand or case material at some point in its life.

A fascinating and increasingly rare pre-war Gibson with all the character, tone, and charm collectors and players seek from this golden era.

Consignment.

photos of: Actual Instrument