Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $3,150

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Step back in time with the 1905 Gibson L1, a classic steel-string acoustic guitar that has truly stood the test of time. Revered for its historical significance and distinctive sound, this guitar is a favorite among collectors and musicians alike. Originally crafted during the golden era of acoustic guitar manufacturing, the L1 is renowned for its warm tonal qualities that are perfect for blues, folk, and early jazz styles.

This model features a spruce top that contributes to its bright, resonant sound, while the mahogany back and sides offer a rich depth that complements its projection. The craftsmanship is evident in its hand-carved details, reflecting Gibson's commitment to quality and precision. The L1's comfortable neck and vintage appeal make it an excellent choice for both players and enthusiasts seeking authenticity in their acoustic experience.

Whether you're strumming in a cozy living room or performing on stage, the Gibson L1 delivers a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless. Its classic design and unparalleled sound quality ensure that it remains a cherished piece of musical history.

Key Features:

  • Steel-string acoustic guitar from 1905
  • Spruce top for bright, resonant sound
  • Mahogany back and sides for rich tonal depth
  • Hand-carved details reflecting vintage craftsmanship
  • Ideal for blues, folk, and early jazz styles

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1905 Gibson l1.

Setup and maintenance

  • Changing to 80/20 .11-50 strings is recommended to enhance sound quality without compromising stability.

    Source

Build quality

  • Early Gibsons, like this 1905 L1, lack a truss rod, making neck resets crucial for maintaining tension balance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Sounds differ starkly from modern guitars like the D28; best suited for fingerstyle, reflecting early 1900s preferences.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Slotted headstocks were a unique feature in Gibson's 1905-1907 steel-string models, a rarity post-1907.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Jack White uses 1905 Gibson l1

Jack White

Singer, Guitarist

The Raconteurs

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:35 into this video documentary, The Raconteurs – Live at Electric Lady | Presented by Spotify (Documentary & Concert Film), the narrator Jim Jarmusch explains how Jack White gifted him a 1905 Gibson Acoustic only because he had two of them, which proves White's ownership of this guitar. From the documentary:

When The Raconteurs made their first album Broken Boy Soldier they asked me to do the first video for Steady As She Goes. And back then Jack's spirit brought me back into music when he gave me a beautiful Gibson acoustic guitar from 1905 at the end of our video shoot. And I said, "no Jack no way I'm not taking that guitar," and he says, "Hey man, I have two of them. If I had one I would never give it to you!"

The photo used for this guitar is a screenshot from the documentary. If anyone happens to know if this acoustic has a proper model name, please contribute to this submission.

See how John Flansburgh uses 1905 Gibson l1

John Flansburgh

Guitarist

They Might Be Giants

...
Verified via Tmbw

According to the official wiki :

Gibson L1 acoustic guitar - Custom built during the John Henry sessions.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1905 Gibson l1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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