1933 Gibson L-5 Special

$23,999.00 Price Tier: High-end

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Page last updated Jun 30, 2026

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$23,999.00 1 available Used

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Average Price: $23,999

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$500

$1201+

Price Tier

In the Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars category, 1933 Gibson L-5 Special is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Description

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Step back in time with the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that embodies the golden era of jazz. Crafted with precision and care, this instrument is a testament to the craftsmanship that defined the early 20th century. The L-5 Special is renowned for its rich, resonant tones, making it a beloved choice for jazz musicians seeking that classic, full-bodied sound.

This 1933 model is particularly cherished for its historical significance and stellar acoustics. It features a smaller, 16-inch body that offers a distinct tonal warmth and clarity, perfect for both intimate performances and larger venues. The hand-carved spruce top and maple back and sides provide a beautiful blend of tonal depth and projection, while the ebony fretboard ensures smooth, effortless playability.

The Gibson L-5 Special, with its non-cutaway design, maintains the traditional aesthetic of its era, appealing to both collectors and players alike. Its enduring legacy and meticulous build quality make it a prized possession for any guitarist looking to capture the authentic sound and feel of the 1930s.

Key Features:

16-inch body width for enhanced tonal warmth
Hand-carved spruce top with maple back and sides
Ebony fretboard for smooth playability
Non-cutaway design retaining traditional aesthetics
Revered for its rich, resonant jazz tones

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	L-5
Finish	Sunburst
Year	1922 - 1933
Made In	United States
Categories	Archtop Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp	No
Back Material	Maple
Body Shape	Archtop
Color Family	Brown
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Ebony
Model Family	Gibson L-5
Neck Material	Maple
Number of Frets	20
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup	None
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Series	Gibson Pre-War Era
Sides Material	Maple
String Type	Steel
Top Material	Spruce

FAQs

What type of body does the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special have?: The 1933 Gibson L-5 Special features an archtop body, which is known for its rich, resonant sound and is a hallmark of vintage jazz guitars.
What materials are used in the construction of the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special?: This guitar is constructed with a spruce top and maple back and sides, offering a bright and articulate tone, while the ebony fretboard provides smooth playability.
Is the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special suitable for jazz music?: Yes, the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special is highly regarded for jazz due to its archtop design and warm, resonant sound, making it a favorite among jazz guitarists.
Does the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special have any pickups?: No, the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special is an acoustic archtop guitar with no built-in pickups, designed to be played acoustically.
How many frets does the 1933 Gibson L-5 Special have?: The 1933 Gibson L-5 Special features 20 frets, providing a wide range for playing intricate melodies and chords.

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Carl Kress

Guitarist

Carl Kress and His Orchestra

Verified via Photo

Though many collectors focus on instruments in fine original condition, every so often one emerges that, regardless of condition, is no less exciting than a paleontologist finding the “missing link.” Everything there is to know about the Gibson L-5 designed by Carl Kress can be learned from this example, with the model designation “Special” hand-written on the interior paper label, all of its original parts, and serial number 89849 (consistent with a manufacture date of 1933).

http://www.vintageguitar.com/15441/1933-gibson-l-5-special/

Dick Mcdonough

Guitarist

The Boswell Sisters

Verified via Photo

Dick McDonough is pictured with a 1933 Gibson L-5 Special in a user-uploaded photo on Redhotjazz, showcasing his use of this semi-hollowbody electric guitar.