Invented by Walt Smith, Mel-o-bar guitars were manufactured at the Mosrite factory in Bakersfield, California in the late 60's. A unique combination of a lap steel and a standard guitar, this design uses a standard (Mosrite) guitar body and raises the neck of the guitar up a 45 degree angle so the player can stand and play in the traditional steel guitar method. This particular example still houses its original Mosrite pickups and hardware. Visually, it is also in great vintage condition with only some very minor finish checking.