1947 Gibson LG-2: The First Year of Gibson's Post-War Workhorse

Why the 1947 LG-2 Matters

The 1947 Gibson LG-2 holds a unique place in guitar history—it represents the very first year of production for one of Gibson's most important small-body acoustic models. Introduced as materials and manufacturing returned to civilian production after World War II, the LG-2 was Gibson's answer to the growing demand for affordable, high-quality guitars in post-war America.

What makes 1947 special:

• First production year of an iconic model line that would run for decades

• Banner headstock era featuring the patriotic "Only a Gibson Is Good Enough" banner logo (1943-1947)

• Premium Adirondack (Red) spruce tops before spruce supplies became more limited

• Old-growth mahogany back, sides, and neck from pre-war timber stocks

• Transition year features bridging wartime and peacetime manufacturing

• Hand-built craftsmanship from Gibson's experienced Kalamazoo workforce

• Sunburst finish with nitrocellulose lacquer that has aged beautifully

• Smaller, more intimate body than the J-45, ideal for fingerpicking and recording

The LG-2 was designed as an entry-level flattop, positioned below the J-45 in Gibson's catalog. However, "entry-level" in 1947 meant a professionally-built instrument with solid woods, hand-carved bracing, and meticulous craftsmanship—qualities that make these guitars highly sought after today.

Historical Context: Gibson's Post-War Relaunch

In 1947, Gibson was emerging from the constraints of wartime production. The Kalamazoo factory had spent 1942-1945 building wooden airplane parts, folding rules, and other military equipment. Guitar production resumed in 1945, but material shortages limited what could be manufactured. By 1947, the factory was returning to full guitar production, though some materials remained scarce.

Key developments in 1947:

• Gibson formally introduced the LG-2 as a catalog model (though some late 1946 examples may exist)

• Factory production increased as materials became more available

• The banner headstock logo was discontinued mid-year (making early 1947s especially collectible)

• Access to premium tone woods improved but still relied heavily on pre-war stocks

• Returning veterans fueled demand for affordable musical instruments

• Competition from Martin, Epiphone, and Kay drove innovation in the affordable guitar market

The LG-2's Market Position:

The LG-2 filled an important niche in Gibson's 1947 lineup. With an original retail price of approximately $57.50, it sat below the mahogany J-45 ($97.50) and far below fancy models like the J-200 ($295). This pricing made professional-quality Gibson guitars accessible to working musicians, students, and hobbyists who couldn't afford the flagship models.

The "LG" designation stood for "L-size, Gut string," indicating the smaller 14.75" lower bout body designed originally for gut strings (though steel strings were increasingly common by 1947). The "-2" indicated it was the second-tier finish level, with a simple sunburst rather than natural finish.

Musical Context:

• Country music was booming in post-war America

• Folk music was evolving beyond Woody Guthrie's dust bowl ballads

• Blues musicians were transitioning from acoustic to electric, but acoustics remained essential

• Recording technology favored smaller-body guitars that didn't overpower primitive microphones

• Returning GIs sought instruments for entertainment and creative expression

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• Banner Headstock: Early 1947 examples with the banner logo command 25-35% premiums over non-banner examples

• Originality: All-original examples with factory finish worth 50-70% more than refinished guitars

• Top Quality: Adirondack spruce tops in excellent condition with minimal cracking add significant value

• Structural Integrity: No cracks, no neck resets, original bridge critical to premium pricing

• Hardware: Original Kluson tuners and original bridge essential for collector-grade values

• Case: Original chipboard case (brown with maroon interior typical) adds $300-500

• Documentation: Any original paperwork, receipts, or provenance significantly increases value

Recent Market Trends:

• Banner headstock Gibsons have appreciated 20-30% over the past five years

• First-year production instruments command growing premiums

• Small-body vintage Gibsons increasingly popular with recording artists

• Player-grade examples remain accessible to working musicians

• Pristine examples reaching new price levels at specialized auctions

Comparative Values:

• 1947 LG-2 values approaching 1947 J-45 values despite smaller size

• First-year LG-2s worth more than mid-1950s examples

• Similar pricing to period Martin 00-18 but with different tonal character

Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium examples. We understand that banner headstock 1947 LG-2s are among the most collectible small-body Gibsons and price our offers accordingly.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Numbers

1947 Gibson LG-2s typically have serial numbers in the A-1xxx to A-4xxx range, ink-stamped on the back of the headstock. Gibson's serial numbering system from this era can be inconsistent, with some overlap between years.

Serial Number Location:

• Stamped in black ink on back of headstock (center, below tuners)

• "A" prefix followed by 4 digits

• Some very early 1947 examples may have inconsistent formats

• Numbers often faded or partially worn on heavily played instruments

• Serial numbers alone cannot definitively date these guitars—use multiple verification methods

Factory Order Number (FON)

The most reliable dating method is the Factory Order Number stamped inside the guitar on the neck block.

1947 FON Format:

• Visible through soundhole on the neck block

• Three or four-digit number

• May or may not include batch number

• 1947 FON numbers typically range from approximately 100-400

• Some early 1947s may have late 1946 FON numbers due to production timing

To view FON:

• Look through soundhole toward neck joint

• May require angled light and mirror

• Numbers stamped into wood, sometimes faint

• Critical for accurate dating when serial number is unclear

Non-Banner 1947 Features:

• "Gibson" in script logo only

• No banner rectangle

• Otherwise identical construction

  
  

Wood Identification

Top Wood:

• Adirondack (Red) spruce—premium tone wood

• Wider grain spacing than Sitka spruce

• Often shows figuring, bearclaw, or hazel patterns

• Two-piece book-matched construction

• Original color: cream to light amber

• After 75+ years: rich amber to dark honey color

• Grain runs vertically (parallel to centerline)

Back and Sides:

• Solid mahogany (Honduras mahogany typical)

• Two-piece book-matched back

• Straight, even grain patterns

• Sunburst finish over natural mahogany

• Darker sunburst on back edges

Neck:

• Mahogany neck with V-shaped profile

• Rosewood fingerboard (likely Brazilian rosewood in 1947)

• Glued-in set neck construction

• Dowel stick reinforcement (no adjustable truss rod in 1947)

Hardware Specifications

Tuners:

• Kluson Deluxe strip tuners

• Three-on-a-plate design on each side

• White plastic buttons (now yellowed to cream/amber)

• Nickel plating (may show wear or tarnish)

• "Kluson" or patent stamps on back plates

• Original tuners critical to collector value

Bridge:

• Rosewood belly bridge (slight upward curve)

• Traditional pyramid shape at ends

• Through-saddle design

• Tied string attachment (no bridge pins)

• Bridge may be ebony on some examples

• Original bridges show characteristic wear under saddle slot

Pickguard:

• Small teardrop-shaped pickguard

• Tortoiseshell celluloid material

• Glued directly to top (no screws)

• Positioned below soundhole

• Original guards often show shrinkage, warping, or cracking

• Some examples may have black pickguards

Binding:

• Single-ply white binding on top edge only

• No back binding (cost-saving measure)

• Binding may show yellowing or checking

• Some shrinkage common after 75+ years

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Dimensions:

• Lower bout width: 14.75" (L-size body)

• Upper bout width: 10.5"

• Waist: approximately 8.75"

• Body depth: 4.5" at tail block

• Smaller than J-45 dreadnought

• Ladder-braced or X-braced (transitional period—both exist)

Neck Specifications:

• Scale length: 24.75" (Gibson standard)

• Nut width: 1-11/16"

• Neck profile: Full V-shape (substantial by modern standards)

• 12 frets clear of body (14th fret joins body)

• 19 total frets (typically)

• Fingerboard radius: Approximately 12"

• Dot inlays at frets 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 17

• Double dots at 12th fret

Bracing:

• Critical detail: 1947 was transitional for LG-2 bracing

• Some examples have ladder bracing (traditional)

• Some examples have X-bracing (modern)

• Both configurations exist in 1947 production

• X-braced examples generally more valuable to players

• Ladder-braced examples valued by purists and historians

• Bracing pattern visible with inspection mirror through soundhole

Weight:

• Typical weight: 3.5-4.0 lbs

• Lighter than J-45 due to smaller body

• Lighter than modern guitars due to thin finish and lighter bracing

• Specific weight varies by wood density and bracing pattern

Finish:

• Nitrocellulose lacquer sunburst on top

• Sunburst back (dark edges, lighter center)

• Natural mahogany sides with dark sunburst edges

• Thin finish application (much thinner than modern production)

• Finish checking, crazing, and amber tinting normal and desirable

• Original finish should show consistent aging patterns

Tonal Characteristics

The 1947 LG-2 delivers an intimate, focused tone that has made it a favorite of recording artists and fingerstyle players for decades.

Sound Profile:

• Fundamental Tone: Warm, focused, midrange-forward character

• Bass Response: Tight and controlled, not boomy—perfect for recording

• Treble Clarity: Clear and articulate with vintage sweetness

• Sustain: Excellent sustain that has improved with decades of playing

• Projection: Surprising volume for a small-body guitar

• Dynamic Range: Highly responsive to touch and playing dynamics

• Note Separation: Individual notes remain clear in complex fingerpicking

Why 1947 LG-2s Sound Special:

• Adirondack Spruce: Lighter, stiffer, more responsive than modern Sitka spruce

• Old-Growth Mahogany: Denser, more resonant than modern sustainably-harvested wood

• 75+ Years of Aging: Wood crystallization improves resonance and complexity

• Thin Finish: Nitro finish has thinned over decades, allowing better vibration

• Smaller Body: More focused tone, less prone to muddiness than larger guitars

• Hand-Voiced Bracing: Individual attention to bracing results in unique tonal character

• Hide Glue Construction: Traditional joinery allows optimal vibration transfer

Recording and Performance Characteristics:

• Ideal for studio recording—doesn't overpower microphones

• Cuts through mix without competing with vocals

• Perfect for fingerstyle blues, folk, and early country styles

• Excellent for songwriter demos and intimate performances

• Sits beautifully in ensemble settings without dominating

• Minimal feedback issues when amplified (due to smaller body)

Bracing Impact on Tone:

• Ladder-Braced Examples: Warmer, more "old-timey" character; looser bass response

• X-Braced Examples: More balanced, modern sound; tighter bass, better volume

• Both configurations have devoted followers

• Neither is definitively "better"—tonal preference is subjective

Comparison to Other Guitars:

• vs. J-45: More focused, less bass-heavy; better for recording

• vs. Martin 00-18: Similar size but warmer, less bright; different midrange character

• vs. Later LG-2s: 1947 has superior Adirondack tops and old-growth mahogany

• vs. Modern Small-Body Gibsons: Vintage examples have more complex overtones and faster response

Common Issues & Modifications

When evaluating a 1947 LG-2, watch for these typical issues and modifications:

Structural Issues

Top Cracks:

• Most common issue on 75+ year old guitars

• Cracks often appear along grain lines or near soundhole

• Bridge area cracks from string tension stress

• Pickguard area cracks (sometimes hidden under guard)

• Professional repairs with proper cleats acceptable

• Multiple or crossing cracks more serious

• Unrepaired cracks significantly reduce value

Bridge Problems:

• Bridge lifting or separation from top (serious issue)

• Belly warping in bridge from decades of string tension

• Replacement bridges common (reduces value 15-25%)

• Check saddle height—excessive height indicates top bellying

• Look for evidence of bridge regluing

• Original tied-string bridges sometimes replaced with pin bridges (reduces value)

Neck Issues:

• Neck resets common and often necessary after 75 years

• Most 1947 LG-2s will need or have had a neck reset

• Professional reset maintains playability without major value loss

• Check neck angle by sighting down fretboard

• Non-adjustable truss rod means neck must be structurally sound

• Neck warping or twisting is serious (no truss rod to correct)

• Fingerboard wear from 75+ years of playing

Bracing Integrity:

• Loose braces detectable by careful tap testing

• Ladder bracing more prone to separation than X-bracing

• Bridge plate cracks from string tension

• Loose or separated X-braces less common but more serious

• Professional regluing acceptable if done properly

• Check for loose back bracing (less common but possible)

Finish Issues

Refinishing:

• Complete refinishes reduce value by 50-70%

• Even "professional" refinishes significantly impact collectibility

• Check for overspray inside soundhole

• Look for finish buildup on binding

• Inconsistent checking patterns suggest refinish

• Wrong sunburst pattern or color indicates refinish

• UV light examination can reveal refinish work

Finish Wear and Aging:

• Natural wear and checking actually increase value

• "Honest wear" from playing more desirable than pristine condition

• Finish checking normal and expected on 75+ year old nitro

• Amber tinting and darkening of finish normal

• Play wear on back of neck, top near soundhole expected

• Pickguard shrinkage may cause finish cracks (not refinish)

Touch-ups and Overspray:

• Minor professional touch-ups minimally affect value if well-done

• Extensive touch-up work reduces value

• Sunburst "enhancement" common but reduces collectibility

• Overspray on original pickguard indicates refinish

• Check for consistent patina across entire instrument

Hardware Modifications

Replaced Tuners:

• Original Kluson tuners frequently replaced with Grovers

• Replacement tuners reduce value 10-20%

• Additional screw holes from wrong replacement tuners reduce value further

• Modern sealed tuners change vintage aesthetic

• Original tuners should be saved even if replaced for playing

Bridge Modifications:

• Original belly bridge often replaced with modern bridge

• Pin bridge conversions common (significantly reduces value)

• Ebony replacement bridges more acceptable than rosewood

• Modern compensated saddles change vintage character

• Check for enlarged saddle slot indicating multiple saddle changes

• Undersaddle pickups require modification (avoid if possible)

Pickguard Changes:

• Original celluloid pickguards often shrink, crack, or fall off

• Missing pickguard and visible ghost outline acceptable

• Replacement pickguards slightly affect value if period-correct style

• Screwed-on pickguards (instead of glued) indicate replacement

• Larger modern pickguards significantly change appearance

Non-Original Modifications

Strap Buttons:

• Period guitars rarely had strap buttons

• Added strap buttons common and minimally affect value if professionally installed

• Check for cracks around button installation

• Tail block button installation preferable to heel installation

Electronics:

• Soundhole pickups reversible and don't significantly affect value

• Bridge pickups requiring routing significantly reduce value

• Avoid instruments with interior modifications for electronics

• Endpin jack installations common and acceptable if professional

Truss Rod Additions:

• Some 1947 LG-2s have had truss rods retrofitted

• This modification is controversial among collectors

• Significantly reduces collector value (30-40%)

• May improve playability but destroys originality

• Check for filled holes or plugs in headstock

Authentication Red Flags

Counterfeit Concerns:

• 1947 LG-2s less commonly faked than high-end models

• Banner headstock guitars occasionally faked (banner added to non-banner guitars)

• Check for incorrect serial number format or placement

• Modern features (adjustable saddle, truss rod) indicate fake or heavy modification

• Wrong bracing pattern for year

• Incorrect headstock shape or logo style

• Modern wood species (Sitka instead of Adirondack)

• Finish that doesn't show proper aging characteristics

• Incorrect pickguard shape or size

Why Players and Collectors Value 1947 LG-2s

Playing Characteristics

Professional Musicians Appreciate:

• Recording-friendly size and tone

• Comfortable smaller body for extended playing

• Excellent fingerstyle response

• Vintage tone that inspires songwriting

• Manageable feedback characteristics

• Warm, non-aggressive sound perfect for vocals

• Lightweight for travel and live performance

The 1947 Sweet Spot:

• First production year rarity

• Banner headstock collectibility (early 1947)

• Premium Adirondack spruce before supplies tightened

• Old-growth mahogany no longer available

• Transition-era features make each guitar somewhat unique

• Hand-craftsmanship before later production increases

• More affordable than larger J-45 or fancy models

Collector Appeal

Investment Factors:

• First-year production of important model line

• Banner headstock rarity (early 1947 only)

• Steady appreciation over decades

• More accessible than pre-war L-00 models

• Historical significance as post-war introduction

• Premium tone woods increasingly rare and valuable

• Limited production numbers in first year

Historical Significance:

• Represents Gibson's post-war product strategy

• Introduction of affordable professional instruments

• Part of folk music and recording history

• Used by countless session musicians and songwriters

• Bridge between pre-war and modern guitar design

• Documents Gibson's Kalamazoo craftsmanship

Practical Investment:

• Can be played and enjoyed while appreciating

• More stable long-term investment than many alternatives

• Emotional and historical value beyond financial

• Banner headstock examples show strongest appreciation

• Growing recognition of small-body vintage Gibson value

Recording Studio Favorite

1947 LG-2s have become increasingly popular in recording studios:

• Perfect size for close-miking techniques

• Controlled low-end doesn't muddy recordings

• Focused midrange sits perfectly in mixes

• Responds beautifully to various recording techniques

• Vintage character adds warmth to digital recordings

• Used by contemporary artists seeking authentic vintage tone

Selling Your 1947 Gibson LG-2

If you own a 1947 LG-2 or have inherited one, Edgewater Guitars offers the expertise and fair pricing that these historically significant instruments deserve.

Why Sell to Edgewater Guitars?

Premium Valuations:

• We pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops

• We understand first-year production significance

• We recognize banner headstock premiums

• We properly value Adirondack spruce tops and old-growth mahogany

• We appreciate ladder vs. X-bracing differences

• We understand how professional repairs affect value vs. poor modifications

Expert Authentication:

• Free professional authentication and appraisal

• We verify serial numbers, FON stamps, and construction details

• We can identify banner vs. non-banner transitions

• We recognize period-correct features and anachronisms

• We consult with leading vintage Gibson experts when necessary

• We provide detailed written appraisals for insurance or estate purposes

Streamlined, Professional Process:

• Immediate cash offers for qualified instruments

• No consignment fees or lengthy waiting periods

• No hassles with online listings or unqualified buyers

• We handle secure shipping and full insurance for remote sellers

• In-person evaluation available throughout our service area

• For exceptional banner headstock examples, we travel beyond our standard region

White-Glove Service:

• Climate-controlled transportation for valuable instruments

• Discretion and confidentiality for estate sales and significant collections

• Honest, transparent evaluation even if we don't make an offer

• Detailed documentation of our assessment process

• Referrals to restoration specialists if needed

• Fair treatment and respect for your instrument's history

What We Evaluate

When assessing your 1947 LG-2, we carefully examine:

• Banner Headstock: Early 1947 examples command significant premiums

• Originality: All-original instruments worth substantially more

• Structural Condition: Top integrity, neck condition, bracing soundness

• Finish Originality: Original finish vs. refinish dramatically affects value

• Hardware: Original Kluson tuners and bridge critical

• Bracing Type: Ladder vs. X-bracing (both valuable, different characteristics)

• Playability: Neck angle, action, fret condition

• Tone Quality: We actually play the instruments

• Documentation: Original case, receipts, provenance, photos

• Market Comparables: Recent sales and current demand

Our Service Area

Edgewater Guitars purchases vintage guitars throughout:

• Ohio: Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, Dayton

• Michigan: Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Flint

• Pennsylvania: Pittsburgh, Erie, Allentown

• Indiana: Fort Wayne, South Bend, Indianapolis

• West Virginia: Wheeling, Morgantown, Charleston

For exceptional instruments like banner headstock 1947 LG-2s, we travel nationally to evaluate and purchase premium examples.

Get Your Free Valuation Today

Ready to sell your 1947 Gibson LG-2? Contact the vintage guitar experts at Edgewater Guitars:

Call: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Online Quote: Get Your Free Valuation

We respond to all inquiries within 24 hours. With detailed photos, we can often provide preliminary valuations over the phone or via email.

Related Resources

To help you research and authenticate your vintage Gibson acoustic guitar:

• Complete Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Gibson Acoustic Dating Guide (1940s-1950s)

• Understanding Gibson Factory Order Numbers

• Banner Headstock Gibson Guide (1943-1947)

• Identifying Adirondack vs. Sitka Spruce Tops

• How to Spot Refinished Gibson Acoustics

• Vintage Gibson Hardware Authentication

• Gibson LG-Series History and Evolution

• Ladder Bracing vs. X-Bracing in Vintage Gibsons

  
  

Trust the Vintage Guitar Experts

When it's time to sell your 1947 Gibson LG-2—especially rare banner headstock examples—trust the team that understands the historical significance, craftsmanship, and true market value of these post-war treasures.

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. For exceptional instruments like banner headstock 1947 LG-2s, we provide professional appraisal services and immediate cash offers—often traveling to you for high-value evaluations.

Don't settle for low-ball offers from shops that don't understand vintage Gibson history. Contact the experts who appreciate what makes your 1947 LG-2 special.

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today:

Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Service Area: Ohio and surrounding Midwest states (national travel for premium instruments)

John Thompson, Vintage Guitar Specialist at Edgewater Guitars, has over 20 years of experience evaluating and purchasing vintage American guitars. His expertise in Gibson acoustics from the 1940s-1960s, including rare banner headstock models, ensures you receive accurate, fair valuations based on current market conditions, historical significance, and true collector demand.