Gibson L-4 1918, Walnut

This 1918 Gibson L-4 in walnut has made it through over a century with surprising grace—and somehow still plays like it’s got something to prove. It’s in great condition for its age, with a fantastic, open voice that’s dry, woody, and full of that oval-hole charm. The fingerboard’s been partially re-fretted, it’s got a new nut, and while the binding at the bottom of the fingerboard extension has wandered off and there’s a chip in the pick-guard, the rest is mostly original and holding up just fine. The maple back and sides add a subtle airiness to the tone and the walnut finish brings personality to the look. If this one could talk, it probably wouldn’t—just nod, tune up, and start playing.