1949 Gibson J-45
The 1949 J-45 — Gibson's most popular acoustic guitar. Round-shoulder dreadnought, mahogany back and sides, spruce top. The acoustic sound of country, folk, and rock.
Current Market Value
Excellent
$5,600–$8,000
Very Good
$3,200–$5,600
Good
$1,600–$3,200
Fair
$800–$1,600
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Mahogany back and sides, Sitka Spruce top |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Brazilian Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None |
| Bridge | Upper belly bridge (rosewood) |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe |
| Finish Options | Sunburst |
| Est. Production | 2,000 |
Pickups & Electronics
Acoustic guitar — no pickups.
What Changed in 1949
Post-war production resuming. Banner headstock discontinued. Standard J-45 features established.
Notable Examples
Bob Dylan, Donovan, Woody Guthrie — the J-45 is the folk/protest song guitar.
Collector's Notes
1950s J-45s are excellent acoustics at accessible vintage prices. Check for original bridge, replaced saddle, and neck reset history.