This is a beautiful and original example of a pre-war Epiphone Deluxe, this was their answer to the Gibson L-5. The quality during this period was excellent, relatively few guitars were being made in the pre-war era so more care was put into each instrument. In 1946, the production numbers skyrocketed as returning GI's splurged on high end instruments. At the time, it was their second most expensive instrument just behind the Emperor.

It is a surprisingly versatile guitar with plenty of uses beyond playing jazz rhythm. It also sounds great flatpicked and fingerpicked. It is responsive to a light touch compared to some similar archtops, which makes it an excellent choice for players that are coming from the world of flat tops.  It is in excellent shape overall, all repairs have been done and it is ready to play. There is one minor sealed split on the top just below the pickguard. It's just had a fresh refret by our neighbor at Philadelphia Fretworks so it plays flawlessly with low action. The neck angle is perfect.  It even comes complete with the original hard shell case. Overall this is one of the nicest 17" swing era archtops we've had.