Description
Exceptional original condition / SN: 90694036
1-3/4″ Nut / Brazilian RW
Sunburst Finish
This 1994 Gibson J-200 Ray Whitley Custom is in incredible original shape. It was purchased new by an inside Gibson Dealer Rep, for his own collection and was mostly kept in the case, except to show it off periodically.
The peghead is pretty dramatic. First of all, it is bound with 5-ply cream bindings that are perfectly made and are mitered at every corner. Inside that lovely border there are 3 nice inlays… At center, top, is a 1937 style Gibson “balloon” script logo, inlaid in M.O.P. Just below the logo is a Gibson Flowerpot inlay in M.O.P. Next inlay stating the model, “Custom Ray Whitley”. Then, above the ivory nut, is the rare white bordered truss-rod cover that has “R W” engraved in it. Gold Grover Imperial tuners.
The Highly Figured Maple Neck is very nice. It has a very playable “C” profile. The back is a vivid “late 1930’s” sunburst with the 2-pc Maple neck bookmatched with Ebony stringer along the center of the back of neck. Gabon Ebony fingerboard with large pearl block inlays that have various cowboy themed engraved inlays (see photos). The fingerboard is bound with 5-ply cream bindings on face and 3-ploy from the sides. Side dot position markers on bass side. The frets are in perfect shape. 3-ply cream heel cap.
The body is a wonderful thing… Brazilian Rosewood back and sides with Red Spruce top. Other great options on the body are: Nine-ply cream bindings around the top edge, with a further 3-ply purfling inside the main bindings; Super 400 style pickguard with 5-ply cream bindings; Brazilian Rosewood early style SJ-200 style open bridge; 7-ply cream soundhole rosette; The Soundhole inside edge is bound with 3-ply cream bindings; Cream end wedge and cream end pin.
The back edge also has 9-ply cream bindings around the back edge. Colorful wooden marquetry strip inset along the center seam.
This guitar qualifies to be called “NOS”(New Old Stock), because it is so unscathed. It literally was stored and cared-for since 1994, by a long-time Gibson “inside” sales manager. It has no fret wear, no crackle finish, etc.
The tone is remarkable. Recording quality sound.
Comes with its original hard case.
