If you’re searching for a world-class archtop that combines refined elegance, history, and unmatched craftsmanship, this 1968 Gibson Johnny Smith is a rare opportunity. With serial number 896577, this guitar comes in its original sunburst finish, retains remarkable originality, and has been lovingly owned by the same dedicated player for the past 30 years.
Condition & Features
This instrument is in great original condition with only one thoughtful modification: the tone capacitor has been updated. Otherwise, everything remains as it left Kalamazoo in 1970. The single floating pickup delivers a warm, articulate voice that suits jazz players perfectly, offering clarity without sacrificing depth. The body’s stunning sunburst finish has aged gracefully, showing a rich patina that only decades of careful ownership can provide.
The guitar’s hardware, binding, and inlays are all intact and beautifully preserved. The neck remains straight and comfortable, with action set for effortless playability. Considering its age and rarity, finding one in such well-kept condition is becoming increasingly difficult.
History of the Model
The Gibson Johnny Smith model was introduced in 1961, designed in close collaboration with the jazz guitarist himself. Johnny Smith was known for his smooth touch, lush voicings, and impeccable tone. Unlike many artist models that were simply cosmetic tributes, the Johnny Smith was a true working musician’s instrument, incorporating Smith’s specific requirements for tone, balance, and comfort.
One of the defining features of this model is the floating mini-humbucking pickup, mounted to the pickguard rather than the top of the guitar. This design choice minimizes interference with the resonance of the carved spruce top, allowing the guitar to maintain the acoustic qualities of a fine archtop while still offering the flexibility of amplification. Combined with a finely carved maple back and sides, the Johnny Smith delivers a unique voice that blends acoustic warmth with electric clarity—perfect for solo, combo, or big-band settings.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Gibson’s Kalamazoo factory was still producing instruments with meticulous handcraftsmanship. The Johnny Smith model stood at the very top of their archtop lineup, representing the pinnacle of design for professional jazz guitarists. Players and collectors alike prize these guitars for their beauty, tonal character, and the direct connection to one of jazz’s great innovators.
Owning a Johnny Smith from this era means owning a piece of jazz guitar history. This specific 1968 example has the added benefit of stability and continuity—cared for by the same owner over the last three decades. It hasn’t been passed from hand to hand or subjected to questionable modifications. Instead, it has been maintained as a working, playable treasure.
Whether you are a serious player seeking an instrument that will inspire your music or a collector looking to add a historically important model to your lineup, this Gibson Johnny Smith represents both rarity and refinement. Its tone, craftsmanship, and condition make it a standout example worthy of admiration and continued use.
Details:
Serial Number: 896577
Pickup: Original floating pickup
Tuners: Original Kluson Sealfast
Frets : original in good condition
bridge : original
Tailpiece : original Johnny Smith tailpiece
Case: Original Gibson case