Description
Cool LG-2 sized Gibson guitar – Gibson CF-100E 1951 – players grade guitar with cool vintage sound
Introduced in 1951, the Gibson CF-100E was the electrified counterpart to the fully acoustic CF-100, which had made its debut just a year earlier. This remarkable instrument was revolutionary for its time, being the first Gibson flat-top acoustic to feature both a built-in pickup and a cutaway—specifically, a sleek Florentine design.
Crafted from all solid woods, the CF-100E boasts a Sitka spruce top with bound mahogany back and sides, complemented by a bound rosewood fingerboard. Unlike Gibson’s later electro-acoustic models, such as the J-160E (which featured ladder bracing and laminate construction), this model benefits from scalloped X-bracing, allowing for superior resonance and warmth.
This particular example from 1951 is a fantastic player with a beautifully aged, well-worn aesthetic that adds to its charm. Acoustically, it delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with excellent projection, while the built-in pickup provides warm, jazzy tones when plugged in. Over the years, the electronics have been maintained, with the pots having been replaced. The neck profile is highly comfortable—identical to that of an early Les Paul Goldtop—making it an excellent choice for players who appreciate vintage Gibson necks.
These guitars are exceptionally rare, with only 1,257 units produced between 1951 and 1959. This guitar has been refinished and some small reapirs have been carried out, making it a cool players grade vintage guitar. It has a low action and plays like butter.
A vintage treasure with both historical significance and outstanding playability, this Gibson CF-100E is a must-have for players!
