Vintage Gibson Nick Lucas Special: America's First Artist Signature Guitar

Why the Gibson Nick Lucas Special Matters

The Gibson Nick Lucas Special holds the distinguished honor of being Gibson's first signature guitar and arguably one of the most important artist endorsement instruments in American guitar history. Produced from the late 1920s through the 1930s, these guitars represent a pivotal moment when Gibson transformed from primarily an archtop manufacturer to a company that would dominate the flat-top acoustic market.

The guitar was developed in consultation with Nick Lucas, a popular singer and guitarist of the 1920s and 1930s who was not just famous but a genuine pop music superstar. His recording of "Tiptoe Through the Tulips" became a massive hit in 1929, and his earlier instrumental recordings "Pickin' the Guitar" and "Teasin' the Frets" from 1922 were among the first flatpicked guitar instrumentals ever recorded.

What makes the Nick Lucas Special historically significant:

• Gibson's first artist signature model, predating the Les Paul by over two decades

• The Lucas was Gibson's first good flat-top guitar

• Established Gibson's credibility in the flat-top acoustic market

• Featured an innovative extra-deep body design that influenced future acoustic guitar development

• Played a crucial role in legitimizing the guitar as a solo instrument rather than just accompaniment

Historical Context: The Jazz Age and Gibson's Acoustic Revolution

The late 1920s represented a perfect storm of cultural and technological changes that made the Nick Lucas Special possible. Jazz was sweeping America, radio was creating national stars overnight, and the guitar was emerging from its role as a background rhythm instrument to take center stage.

During the late twenties (roaring twenties) it was a special time and a turning point in history for gibson because they started offering acoustic flat top guitars for the first time. Prior to 1928, Gibson had been dismissive of flat-top guitars, considering them inferior to their archtop models. However, the success of companies like Martin in the flat-top market, combined with Nick Lucas's star power, convinced Gibson to enter this segment seriously.

Nick Lucas was perfectly positioned to influence guitar design. Lucas (born Dominic Nicholas Anthony Lucanese) would hold an important place in popular music had he never sung a note, thanks to his 1922 solo guitar recordings "Pickin' the Guitar" and "Teasin' the Frets," which were later noted as a major influence by no less than Merle Travis!

The collaboration began around 1925 when it is thought likely that it was ordered during a factory tour of June 1925. Lucas later stated that he took delivery of the original guitar in 1925. However, the production model wasn't cataloged until 1927 or early 1928.

Detailed Identification Guide

Identifying vintage Gibson Nick Lucas guitars requires careful attention to multiple features, as Gibson seemed to change their mind about the Nick Lucas guitar specs often, making Nicks difficult to accurately date.

Serial Numbers and Dating

Gibson's serial numbering for Nick Lucas guitars is particularly complex because in 1928 Gibson printed up a bunch of Lucas serial number labels, and then used them over the next 4 or 5 years. So a later 1933 Nick Lucas guitar could easily have a label printed in 1928.

Serial Number Ranges:

• 1927-1929: Approximately #84000-#88000

• 1930-1933: #86000-#91000 (overlapping ranges due to label reuse)

• 1934-1938: #92000-#95000

Factory Order Numbers (FON)

More reliable than serial numbers for dating, FONs appear as pencil marks in the guitar:

• 1928: FON 8000-8500

• 1929: FON 8500-9500

• 1930: FON 9500-10000

• 1931-1933: FON 10000-11500

Key Visual Identifiers by Era

Early Models (1927-1929):

• 13.5" wide, had a 4.5" deep body which was deeper than most guitars, mahogany back and sides, 2 multi-ply soundhole rings, they had rosewood bridges, bound rosewood fingerboards, patterned fingerboard inlays, 12 frets clear of the body, had "the gibson" silkscreen logo on headstock, round nick lucas label on the inside, and were made in sunburst finishes

• L-1 body outline with increased depth

• Pearl "The Gibson" logo (introduced late 1929)

Transitional Models (1930-1933):

• Most of the 13-fret versions seem to be made of Indian rosewood

• Larger 14¾" body width

• Archtop-style fittings, a height-adjustable bridge, trapeze tailpiece, and elevated pickguard

Later Models (1934-1941):

• 14-fret neck configuration

• Maple back and sides became standard

• Pin bridge replaced trapeze tailpiece

• Glued-on pickguard

The Distinctive Nick Lucas Label

All authentic Nick Lucas guitars feature a distinctive round label inside the soundhole with Nick Lucas's portrait. The original round "Gibson Special" Nick Lucas portrait label under the soundhole is intact and quite well-preserved; it has some spots and stains but Nick's enigmatic smile still peers out clearly.

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Dimensions and Construction

The Nick Lucas Special's most distinctive feature was its extra-deep body. At 4 1/4 inches at its widest point, it's as deep as a dreadnought, but with a much smaller body width that created a unique tonal character.

Standard Specifications:

• Body width: 13½" (early) to 14¾" (later)

• Body depth: 4¼" to 4½"

• Scale length: 24¾"

• Nut width: 1 11/16"

• Weight range: 3.5-4.5 lbs (lighter than most dreadnoughts despite deep body)

Neck Profiles and Configurations

The Nick Lucas went through several neck configurations:

• 12-fret neck (1927-1930): Joined body at 12th fret, creating longer body length

• 13-fret neck (1930-1933): The 13-fret configuration placed the bridge on the top's sweet spot and these guitars can sound amazing, with a full, resonant tone

• 14-fret neck (1934-1941): Gibson had to move the bridge closer to the soundhole to get a 14-fret neck, and while the 14-fret version sounds pretty good, it's not as magical as the 13-fret version

Hardware Evolution

• Early models: Rectangular rosewood bridge with wooden pins

• Transitional models: Adjustable archtop-style bridge with trapeze tailpiece

• Later models: Traditional pin bridge design

• Tuners: Various styles including standard open-gear and special banjo-style tuners on custom orders

Tonal Characteristics: The Nick Lucas Sound

The Nick Lucas Special's unique design created a distinctive tonal profile that set it apart from other guitars of its era. In its basic form, the Gibson Nick Lucas has a grand concert silhouette with an extra-deep 4 1/2-inch body, a combination that produces the clarity and balanced tone of a smaller guitar with the punch and volume of a larger instrument.

Sound Profile:

• Volume: Exceptional projection for a small-bodied guitar due to the deep body

• Balance: Even response across frequency ranges

• Midrange: Rich, woody midrange character from mahogany/rosewood construction

• Clarity: Individual notes remain distinct even in complex fingerpicking patterns

• Sustain: The deep body and quality construction provide excellent sustain

The 13-fret models are particularly prized because the 13-fret configuration placed the bridge on the top's sweet spot, creating what many consider the optimal tonal balance for the design.

Recording and Performance Characteristics

Nick Lucas guitars were specifically designed for the recording technology of the 1920s and 1930s. The balanced tone and excellent projection made them ideal for both radio performance and the acoustic recording methods of the era. The guitar's ability to cut through without being harsh made it perfect for Lucas's crooning style.

Common Issues & Modifications

Typical Problems with Vintage Nick Lucas Guitars

Structural Issues:

• Top distortion: The very thin top has survived well with no major distortion, just a slight arch behind the bridge - but many examples show more significant top bellying

• Neck resets: The neck has been reset with some slight finish disturbance around the heel, the long thin shape of which makes this a trickier job than some

• Back strip repairs: Center seam separations are common due to age and string tension

Hardware Issues:

• Bridge replacements on early models with adjustable bridges

• Missing or replaced bridge pins

• Tuner replacements or modifications

• There is a hole that used to hold an extra small bridge pin. It didn't seem to actually serve any purpose, and at some point in this particular guitar's history it fell out and got lost

Modifications That Affect Value

• Refinishing: Severely impacts collectible value

• Bridge conversions: This guitar originally had a trapeze style bridge but was converted to a modern pin style belly bridge

• Neck angle changes: Often necessary but affects originality

• Electronics additions: Pickup installations reduce collector appeal

Authentication Concerns

Due to the model's rarity and value, reproductions and misidentified guitars appear in the market. Key authentication points include verifying the Nick Lucas label, checking for period-correct construction techniques, and confirming the distinctive body proportions.

Why Players and Collectors Value the Nick Lucas Special

Historical Significance

It's a rare occasion when a star performer hooks up with a guitar company to create a classic signature instrument, and the Nick Lucas Special represents the very beginning of this tradition. Its influence on subsequent Gibson designs cannot be overstated.

Playing Characteristics

• Comfortable neck profiles suitable for both fingerpicking and flatpicking

• Exceptional balance between volume and clarity

• Unique tonal character that complements vintage recording equipment

• On the other hand, the 13-fret version is rather confusing to play, which is probably why Gibson changed it - but many players appreciate the challenge

Collector Appeal

• Extreme rarity: 1937:35, 1938:15, 1939:3, 1940:2, 1941:2 production numbers show how few were made in later years

• Multiple variations create interesting collecting subcategories

• Connection to Bob Dylan and other notable players

• Represents a crucial period in American guitar manufacturing

Investment Potential

The combination of historical importance, extreme rarity, and increasing recognition of the model's significance suggests continued appreciation. The fact that these guitars were Gibson's entry into serious flat-top production gives them museum-quality historical importance.

Notable Players and Cultural Impact

The most famous Nick Lucas guitar belongs to Bob Dylan, who played a re-topped Lucas in the 1960s. Dylan's use of the instrument during his early folk period helped introduce the model to a new generation of players, though his example was stripped and refinished.

Other notable aspects:

• Ernest Stoneman played a similar jumbo 6-string that lacked the inlaid pickguard and personalized headstock. He likely obtained it during 1925–'26 New York recording trips

• The model inspired modern builders, with the Santa Cruz Guitar Company to start building the H-13 based on the 13-fret Nick Lucas design

Selling Your Vintage Gibson Nick Lucas Special

If you own a vintage Gibson Nick Lucas Special, you possess one of the rarest and most historically significant guitars ever made. At Edgewater Guitars, we understand both the monetary and historical value of these exceptional instruments.

Why Choose Edgewater for Your Nick Lucas Special:

Expert Authentication: Our team has extensive experience with pre-war Gibson guitars and can properly authenticate and evaluate your Nick Lucas model, including distinguishing between the various configurations and dating challenges these guitars present.

Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops because we understand the true collector value of rare Gibson models like the Nick Lucas Special.

Specialized Handling: These delicate vintage instruments require careful evaluation and handling. Our process ensures your guitar receives the respect and care it deserves.

National Buyer Network: Due to their rarity, Nick Lucas guitars often require specialized buyers who understand their significance. Our network includes serious collectors and institutions seeking these important instruments.

Complete Documentation: We provide detailed documentation of your guitar's authenticity, condition, and specifications, which enhances its value and marketability.

Ready to sell your vintage Gibson? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation valuation: (440) 219-3607

Gibson Nick Lucas Reissue Models

Gibson introduced the Gibson Nick Lucas Reissue Limited Edition in 1991 with maple back and sides, 14 5/8" wide, vintage sunburst finishes and were signed by Ren Ferguson (only 100 were made). Discontinued in 1992 and were reintroduced in 1999 with flamed maple back and sides and were discontinued in 2004.

Reissue Values:

• 1991-1992 Limited Edition: $1,600-$2,100

• 1999-2004 Standard Reissue: $1,800-$2,200

While the reissues offer players a chance to experience the Nick Lucas design, they lack the historical significance and investment potential of the vintage originals.

Related Resources

Essential References:

• Gibson Serial Number Dating Guide

• Pre-War Gibson Identification Resources

• Nick Lucas Biography and Discography

• Vintage Guitar Price Guide Updates

Related Edgewater Guitar Services:

• Pre-War Gibson Authentication

• Vintage Guitar Appraisal Services

• Complete Gibson Dating Guide

• Sell Your Vintage Gibson Guitar

  
  

Conclusion

The Gibson Nick Lucas Special represents a pivotal moment in American guitar history - the birth of the artist signature model and Gibson's entry into serious flat-top production. From the time the Gibson Nick Lucas Special was first cataloged in 1927 until it was discontinued in 1938, the instrument went through a bewildering array of changes, creating a complex but fascinating collecting category.

Whether you own one of these rare instruments and are considering selling, or you're a collector seeking to add this important piece of guitar history to your collection, the Nick Lucas Special remains one of the most significant guitars of the 20th century.

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing and authenticating vintage Gibson guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. For high-value instruments like the Nick Lucas Special, we travel to you to provide expert evaluation and immediate cash offers.

Contact Edgewater Guitars today:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Free guitar valuations and authentication

• Serving the Midwest region with expert vintage guitar buying services

About the Author: This article was prepared by the vintage guitar experts at Edgewater Guitars, drawing on decades of experience in authenticating, evaluating, and purchasing pre-war Gibson guitars. Our expertise in rare Gibson models has made us the premier guitar buying service in the Midwest region.