1959 Gibson J-45

Serial / FON: S 8399-23

BLUE NOTE MUSIC

Certified Vintage Evaluation

PRIMARY AUTHENTICATION

Factory Order Number (FON)

• Expected: “S” prefix (1959 batch)

• Verify: Ink stamp on neck block

• Pass Criteria: Original ink, correct font, no tampering

Method: Inspection mirror + angled light
Reference: Gruhn’s Guide / Gibson FON charts

Model Verification

• Slope-shoulder dreadnought

• Sunburst finish

• Tortoise teardrop pickguard

• Correct late-’50s construction

Pass Criteria: No evidence of refinished top or incorrect spec conversion

MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION

Tonewoods

• Sitka spruce top

• Mahogany back & sides

• Rosewood fingerboard & bridge

Method: Grain + pore inspection

Bracing & Internal Structure

• X-bracing consistent with late ’50s Gibson

• No non-original brace work

Method: Internal mirror inspection

FINISH & ORIGINALITY

Original Nitrocellulose Finish

• Proper sunburst gradient

• Natural lacquer checking present

• No overspray or polyurethane

• Consistent aging

• Blacklight inspection passed

Method: Blacklight inspection

BRIDGE SYSTEM

Bridge Type

• Correct belly-up bridge (1959 spec)

Bridge Plate

• Bridge Plate Size Verified

• Original small maple plate

• No modern glue lines

• No plugged holes

Method: Internal mirror

NECK & PLAYABILITY

Neck Angle

• Proper geometry (straightedge hits top of bridge)

Neck Reset

• No Reset

Pass Criteria: No visible heel gaps or sloppy work

STRUCTURAL CONDITION

Top Condition

• No pickguard cracks (common)

Braces

• No loose or re-glued braces

Bridge Integrity

• No lifting

Method: Tap test + internal inspection

Tone & Resonance

• ☑ Dry

• ☑ Woody

• ☑ Warm

• ☑ Punchy mids

• ☑ Responsive to light touch

• ☑ Moderate compression

• ☑ Opened-up top

Overall Voice Classification

•  Above Average

• Volume Projection Strong

HARDWARE & COMPONENTS

Tuners

• Period-correct Kluson-style

Saddle / Nut

• Replacement acceptable if properly done

Pickguard

• Correct tortoise teardrop material

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NECK PROFILE & SPECS

Nut Width

• Approx. 1 11/16"

Neck Carve

• Rounded late-’50s Gibson profile

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PROVENANCE

Case

• Not the original case. Solid hard shell case rovided

Documentation

• No Repair history available

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BLUE NOTE CERTIFICATION STANDARD

“BIG 4” (MANDATORY PASS)

• Correct 1959 FON (“S” prefix verified)

• Bridge plate originality

• Original finish (no heavy overspray/refin)

• Structurally sound (no poor repairs)
  

FINAL EVALUATION

Condition Grade: 

• Good: Typical for vintage, well-used with visible scratches, dings, buckle rash, or repaired cracks.

Originality Estimate:

• Tier 1: Fully original

Notable Repairs / Mods:

No repairs or Mods

CERTIFICATION

Certified By (Blue Note): Rick Drevet
Date: 04/22/2026

✔ BLUE NOTE GUARANTEE

This instrument has been evaluated to meet Blue Note Music’s standards for authenticity, structural integrity, and vintage correctness.

“We don’t just sell vintage instruments — we verify, protect, and stand behind them.”