This 1931 Gibson L-5 is essentially a solid braced, maple neck L-5 that was painted black! During the depression, money was tight for most consumers so Gibson had a difficult time selling their top of the line archtop for $275. In an effort to use up the bodies and necks that had already been made, they painted them black and sold them as L-10's at a more approachable price of $175. The inlay at the tail block (as opposed to a center seam) suggests that it started out life as an L-5. This was still a substantial sum as the most expensive Martin at the time, the OM-45, retailed for $170! 

The tone is identical to what you would expect from a late 20's/ early 30's solid braced L-5- woody, warm, with great projection and note separation.  This example is in excellent playing shape, a fresh refret was just completed by our neighbors at Braxton & Hyde Philadelphia Fretworks. The pickguard is original and in excellent shape. The bridge is a period correct reproduction from Cumberland instruments. The original tuners were replaced most likely in the 50's. A couple minor cracks were cleanly repaired on the top, the back has no cracks. Comes with the original hard shell Geib case. Overall this is a great playing and sounding example of one of the most desirable vintage archtops.