This 1981 Gibson L-5Ces carries one of the longest-running names in Gibson’s catalog, tracing its lineage back to Lloyd Loar’s original L-5 design of the 1920s before evolving into the electric cutaway format heard on countless jazz recordings. By the early 1980s, the L-5Ces had become Gibson’s flagship electric archtop, pairing carved spruce and maple construction with full-size humbuckers and the large 17" body that gave the model its broad, resonant voice. The sunburst finish, multi-ply binding, and block inlays retain the formal styling of the model.
This example remains in great condition overall and shows careful upkeep. Several small top splines have been professionally repaired and finished, and the pickguard has been replaced along with one replacement mounting screw. The guitar retains the balanced response and quick acoustic projection that make carved archtops distinct, while the dual humbuckers add warmth and compression without overpowering the instrument’s natural character.
Includes modern Gibson hard shell case.
