Gibson - LG-2 50s Original Antique Natural
The Gibson LG-2 was first introduced in 1942 during the “Banner” era as a replacement for the earlier L-00. It was released alongside other legendary Gibson models such as the J-45™ and Southern Jumbo, and quickly became a popular small-body acoustic guitar model celebrated for its big, yet balanced sound, and which provides an excellent small-bodied alternative to larger models like the J-45.
Couldn't load pickup availability
We’re celebrating the launch of our new website. Get $20 off when you spend $1,000 or more. Discount is automatically applied at checkout.
The Nantel Verdict
The Nantel Verdict
Smaller footprint than J-45 with comparable warmth; solid spruce top paired with mahogany back/sides for focused midrange clarity; scalloped X-bracing delivers balanced projection across registers; authentic 1950s specs including period hardware and finish
Excellent for players with smaller frames or those seeking ergonomic comfort without sonic compromise. Aftermarket pickup installation remains viable if amplification becomes necessary. Budget for quality case and humidity control given mahogany's sensitivity.
A historically grounded instrument that refuses to play second fiddle. The LG-2 proves small body needn't mean small voice—this is serious guitar for players who value articulation and tonal definition over raw volume.
Have a question about this instrument?
Our advisors know it well and can help you find the right one.
Review by the Nantel Musique team
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.
Gibson LG-2 50s Original, Antique Natural
Small body, rich, balanced tone
The Gibson LG-2 was first introduced in 1942 during the “Banner” era as a replacement for the earlier L-00. It was released alongside other legendary Gibson models such as the J-45™ and Southern Jumbo, and quickly became a popular small-body acoustic guitar model celebrated for its big, yet balanced sound, and which provides an excellent small-bodied alternative to larger models like the J-45.
Now, Gibson is proud to introduce the LG-2 50s Original, which brings the LG-2 model back to the Gibson lineup with features inspired by the highly coveted 1950s era models. Demand for the return of this model has been high, and fans of this small-bodied Workhorse alternative will not be disappointed. The LG-2 50s Original features solid mahogany back and sides paired with a solid Sitka spruce top that is reinforced with traditional scalloped X-bracing for rich, small body acoustic tone. The mahogany body features three-ply top and single-ply back binding. The mahogany neck features a Historic V profile and is attached to the body with a compound dovetail neck-to-body joint using hot hide glue. The neck is topped with an unbound rosewood fretboard that is equipped with 20 standard frets and adorned with understated, yet classy mother-of-pearl dot inlays. The LG-2 50s Original is fitted with a sloped, rectangular, closed-slot bridge made from rosewood that is decorated with two mother-of-pearl dot inlays. The nut and saddle are both bone, while the bridge pins are TUSQ®. Grover® strap tuners with white buttons provide solid tuning stability and, along with the tortoise teardrop pickguard, add to the instrument’s vintage charm.
The LG-2 50s Original’s solid Sitka spruce top provides a livelier, brighter, and more balanced sound than some of the war-era LG-2 models that were made with mahogany tops, making it suitable for a broad range of musical genres and playing styles. The smaller physical dimensions of the LG-2 50s Original also make it an outstanding choice that is easier to hold than larger-bodied models for players of smaller stature. It also offers an attractive tonal option to larger-bodied models, making it ideal for adding alternate acoustic tones to a recording. In a nod to the recording and performance needs of today’s guitarists, the LG-2 50s Original also comes factory-equipped with an L.R. Baggs™ VTC under-saddle transducer and built-in preamp. The L.R. Baggs VTC system features soundhole-mounted volume and tone controls that are quick and convenient for the player to access while remaining all but invisible to the audience. The inclusion of high-quality discreet electronics makes the LG-2 50s Original stage and studio-ready from the moment you take it out of the included Gibson hardshell case, while taking nothing away from its attractive, vintage-inspired character and vibe. Whether you need a great small-bodied “couch guitar,” a live performance partner, or a useful new voicing to add to your arsenal of recording guitars, the LG-2 50s Original is an outstanding choice.
Highlights
- Solid mahogany back and sides
- Solid Sitka spruce top with traditional scalloped X-bracing
- Mahogany neck with a historic V profile
- Rosewood fretboard with 20 standard frets and mother-of-pearl graduated crown inlays
- Grover strap tuners with cream buttons
- Baggs VTC electronics
- Gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finish
- Gibson hardshell case
| Body Specs | |
|---|---|
| Back | Mahogany |
| Binding | Three-ply Top, Single-ply Back |
| Body Finish | Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | LG-2 |
| Body Styles | Small Body |
| Bracing | Traditional Scalloped X-bracing |
| Side | Mahogany |
| Top | Sitka Spruce |
| Neck Specs | |
| Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
| Fingerboard Radius | 304.8mm / 12.0in |
| Fret Count | 20 |
| Frets | Standard |
| Inlays | Mother of Pearl Dot |
| Joint | Compound Dovetail Neck-to-body |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Nut Material | Bone |
| Nut Width | 43.82mm / 1.73in |
| Profile | Rounded |
| Scale Length | 628.65mm / 24.75in |
| Electronics Specs | |
| Controls | Soundhole-mounted Volume and Tone |
| Output Jack | 1/4" Endpin |
| Preamp | LR Baggs VTC |
| Under Saddle Pickup | LR Baggs VTC |
| Hardware Specs | |
| Bridge | Sloped Rectangle, Closed Slot; Rosewood |
| Bridge Pins | TUSQ |
| Pickguard | Tortoise Teardrop |
| Saddle Material | Bone |
| Strap Buttons | Endpin Jack |
| Truss Rod | Adjustable |
| Truss Rod Cover | Black Stamped |
| Tuner Plating | Nickel |
| Tuning Machines | Grover Strap with Cream Button |
| Misc Specs | |
| Case | Hardshell |
| Model | OCSBLGAN |
| Headstock Inlay | Epiphone Logo in Gold Silkscreen |
| Strings Gauge | .012, .016, .024, .032, .042, .053 |
Gibson is an American guitar manufacturer with a legacy spanning over a century, founded in 1902 and headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is renowned for crafting some of the world's most iconic acoustic and electric guitars, setting industry standards for tone, playability, and craftsmanship.
Gibson's acoustic guitars are celebrated for their distinctive warm, resonant sound and meticulous attention to detail in wood selection and construction. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has made Gibson instruments the choice of countless professional musicians and a cornerstone of popular music across multiple genres.

