USED Gibson 1952 Custom J-185 Acoustic Guitar - Vintage Sunburst, Sitka Spruce Top, Flame Maple Back

This USED Gibson 1952 Custom J-185 in Vintage Sunburst is a beautifully maintained recreation of one of Gibson’s most legendary acoustic designs. Originally introduced in 1951 as a slightly scaled-down alternative to the SJ-200, the J-185 earned a place in acoustic history thanks to its balanced tone, powerful projection, and elegant aesthetics. This Custom Historic reissue brings vintage tone to life with modern craftsmanship and select tonewoods, including a thermally aged Sitka spruce top and highly figured flame maple back and sides.

In great condition and professionally setup, this guitar offers smooth playability, vibrant resonance, and collector-worthy appeal. Classic J-185 features such as the mother-of-pearl Maltese cross inlays on the open-slot bridge, multi-ply binding, and vintage-style tuners complete the package. Includes original case.

Tonewoods & Construction

• Top Wood: Thermally Aged Solid Sitka Spruce - vintage warmth and quicker responsiveness
  
  
• Back & Sides: Flame Maple - articulate and bright with strong projection
  
  
• Body Shape: J-185 (Small Jumbo)
  
  
• Finish: Vintage Sunburst (Nitrocellulose)
  
  
• Bracing: Traditional hand-scalloped X-bracing
  
  
• Binding: Multi-ply top & back

Neck & Fingerboard

• Neck Material: Maple
  
  
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
  
  
• Scale Length: 24.75" - comfortable tension and vintage feel
  
  
• Nut Width: Approx. 1.725" (standard J-185 spec)
  
  
• Inlays: Mother-of-Pearl Parallelograms
  
  
• Neck Joint: Compound dovetail, hand-fitted

Hardware & Features

• Bridge: Open Slot Rosewood with Maltese Cross Inlays
  
  
• Saddle & Nut: Bone
  
  
• Pickguard: Traditional J-185 Tortoise
  
  
• Tuners: Vintage-style Keystone
  
  
• Case: Original Gibson Hardshell Case Included

Condition & Setup

• Condition: Excellent - light wear, no major dents or structural issues
  
  
• Setup: Clean, low action - professionally adjusted for optimal playability
  
  
• Includes: Original case

Ideal For:

• Gibson fans seeking a faithful vintage-style J-185 with modern refinements
  
  
• Players and collectors looking for boutique-level tonewoods with historic detailing
  
  
• Artists who want lively projection and balanced tone for both stage and studio

The Gibson Custom 1952 J-185 blends nostalgia, craftsmanship, and inspiring tone into a rare and resonant acoustic guitar that’s ready to be played or treasured.