1959 Epiphone FT-45 Cortez in near mint condition.  100% original with no repairs ever done or needed.  CMI who owned Gibson acquired Epiphone in 1957 and manufacturing moved to the Gibson factory in Kalamazoo Michigan.  The earliest models made by Gibson feature necks that were made in the Epiphone factory in New York and bodies made by Gibson.  The FT-45 is the equivalent of the LG-2 with the same body dimensions and scale length.  The Epiphone necks have a different heel shape as well as peghead.  The "bikini" metal logo and truss rod cover are also features of the early Gibson/Epis.  Interestingly these first year guitars have bent linings a nod to the New York Epiphone construction.  This guitar has a strong full sound wether strummed or fingerpicked.  There is a lot to like about this one.  Includes original faux alligator soft case also in near mint condition.