1952 Gibson L-5-C Natural in excellent condition.  This is simply one of the finest sounding 17" archtop guitars we have seen.  We try and avoid using the term best ever as it had been so over used and widely applied in this business, however in this case it is deserved.  Tom has known this guitar for over 20 years having worked on it over that time.  He reset the neck around 15 years ago, a nearly invisible job.  The guitar is refretted with medium fret wire and received a recent grind and polish here.  The bridge is at full height and original with room to adjust up or down.  The finish is all original and in nice shape with fine light checking.  The patina shows just the right amount of wear, enough that it looks old but obviously very well cared for all its years.  The tuners and tailpiece are original, the pickguard is a perfect reproduction.  The maple back and sides are highly flamed as is the maple neck.  The Sitka Spruce top is even and tight grained with no runout.  The neck is 1 11/16" at the nut and 25 1/4" scale.  The mid 50s are a great time period for Gibson neck shapes and this is no exception, round full, comfortable.  The tonal and dynamic range is stunning.  Very lively even with the softest touch.  Power to spare when called on.  A fine instrument in every regard.  Includes original hard case.