First launched by Gibson in 1942, the J-45 standardized their slope shouldered jumbo design (their answer to Martin's dreadnought). With its no-frills look and famous sunburst, the J-45 has long been nicknamed “The Workhorse” by players, and for good reason. This guitar can take just about anything you throw at it. From simple strumming to fingerstyle and flatpicking, the J-45 can cover it. The guitar has long been favored by singer-songwriters, as its mellow sound fits perfectly beneath vocals. It features a Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and "baseball bat" mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard and bridge, simple MOP dot inlays, and the later post-war gold "Gibson" block logo on the headstock.

Repairs and mods to this 1959 model include a refret, replaced adjustable saddle, light overspray on the top, replaced tuner buttons, and an added strap button at the heel.