Few acoustic guitars carry as much weight as the J-45. Debuting in 1942, it launched what's now known as the Banner era, named for the "Only a Gibson is Good Enough" headstock logo the company used through 1946, and went on to become the best-selling Gibson acoustic of all time. The 1942 originals are holy grail territory for vintage collectors, and this Custom Shop reissue is a faithful attempt at bringing that era back. Built by veteran luthiers in Montana, it's spec'd to deliver: Thermally Aged Adirondack red spruce top, hot hide glue bracing, mahogany back and sides, and a bone nut and saddle. If you've ever wanted to know what all the fuss is about without hunting down an 80-year-old original, this is a great place to start.