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1992 Gibson L-5CES, Steve Miller Collection

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Serial #: 81289602, orange label. Master Model label signed 12/4/92.

Body size at lower bout: 17", Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut: 1 11/16"

Finish: Cherry sunburst finish, nitrocellulose lacquer type.

Materials: Solid bookmatched handcarved fine grain spruce top; solid handcarved bookmatched AAA tiger-flame maple back and sides with Venetian cutaway; tiger flame maple neck with walnut centerstripes; solid ebony fingerboard with block mother of pearl inlays; abalone torch and headstock logo; 5-ply body and neck binding; bound f-holes; solid bone nut.

Hardware: All original hardware includes twin gold Gibson '57 Classic humbucking pickups, 5-ply bound tortoise pickguard; Gibson gold bonnet volume and tone controls, engraved gold tailpiece, gold Grover Super Rotomatic tuners, compensated adjustable gold Tuneamatic bridge with inlaid foot; three-way pickup selector switch; adjustable truss rod.

Notes: The electric version of the L-5C, the L-5CES was introduced in 1951, and has been Gibson's top-line electric guitar ever since. A favorite of pro players from George Barnes to Herb Ellis and Wes Montgomery, the L-5CES is built with solid carved tonewood throughout, all gold hardware, deluxe multi-ply binding, and twin humbucking pickups since 1957.

This gleaming example is from the personal collection of legendary recording artist Steve Miller, and is signed by the artist on the back of the peghead. The instrument has been maintained in superb 100% original condition, with all factory hardware and finish, and is without cracks, pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear. The fiddleback flame maple back, sides and neck show vivid bookmatched figure, and the soundboard is carved of solid, fine grained select Sitka spruce. The neck has a classic "D" profile, neither too skinny nor overly full, and the fretwork is high and perfectly crowned, with smooth low action over a fresh high-precision setup.

An eyecatching addition is the custom diamond engraving on crossbar of the art-deco tailpiece, an ornate pattern we believe is unique to this striking guitar. The tone is warm, rich and sweet, as befits an instrument of its distinguished pedigree, and is complete with the additional tan oval Master Model Custom Shop label. The instrument is accompanied by documentation of provenance as well, including a color photo of Mr. Miller with the guitar in hand.

Highly sought-after worldwide, the L-5CES has been the gold standard for the electric archtop for over half a century. No joker this one, it's a true gangster of jazz. One only: call now.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge flatwound nickel strings (.013-.056). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Worn vintage black Gibson L-5 hardshell case, with Steve Miller Band touring stencil and stickers.

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