Northwest Vintage Guitars presents a 1934 Gibson L-12 archtop acoustic that was purchased new and owned for many decades by William H "Herman" Doeppe and family, early guitarist for the first Glenn Miller band (according to the family and heirs). Included is the original bill of sale from Walter D Moses & Co of Richmond Virginia in June of 1935. The serial number dates this to 1934, but the L-12 didn't officially begin production until 1935 so there are some unique features that didn't appear on the regular production models. It features some early features like a non-sunburst back, unique stylized fretboard inlays, 16” lower bout, and an early small headstock. This is a piece of history as it has travelled with the earliest Glenn Miller band. Herman suffered a car accident early in his career and this guitar went into storage for many decades until it was acquired from Herman’s family by a west coast collector and dealer, Archtops.com. The finish is original sans some well executed fills in scattered dings. It remains in remarkable condition.
The nut measures 1.77", neck depth is .99"-1.14" at the 1st and 12th frets respectively. It's a vintage 30's V neck carve. 24.75", 10" radius. The neck is straight, the truss rod turns in both directions, and the relief is currently set for optimum playability. The original hard case in the photos. The inlays are original and differ from later production models. This has been well documented by George Gruhn and other sources. The truss rod cover was custom made for Herman. There are a few unfilled and filled scratches, dings, and dents as pictured. There is a separation in the wood on the neck behind the truss rod as pictured. It remains in excellent playable condition with no dead spots or unwarranted buzzing. The tailpiece is an early Vib-Rola aftermarket replacement.
For answers about trades, discounts, shipping, and other questions please read our storefront page. This item is offered on our website and other online marketing platforms and subject to prior sale. Please check our website for additional photos.
Buy with confidence. We offer a 7 day money-back return on all used guitars. All guitars are guaranteed to arrive in the condition as described, and a full refund will be issued if not. All our guitars are deep cleaned and receive a professional service and setup. You will not get a filthy guitar from us. Additionally, all our guitars are fully insured, and we will assist with any claims that may arise. See the details on our Storefront.
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We are located in the Pacific Northwest USA and are exclusively online.
