1940 Gibson EH-185 Lap Steel Guitar – Used

Here’s a very cool and early lap steel from Gibson in all original condition. The Gibson EH-185 took inspiration from earlier steel guitars but featured a unique design of its own. Gibson combined a one-piece cast metal body and neck with decorative double-bound maple body and neck overlays, with a rosewood fingerboard laid over the neck. This specific model from 1940 used a Charlie Christian, with its original “horseshoe” magnet construction mounted under the metal body, which sounds incredible. The condition is great and shows only the typical finish wear and checking that you’d expect for an instrument of this age. This one has the classic 481 bakelite knobs, which are in great shape as well. While it is on the heavy side, it sits comfortably in the lap and feels great to play. It comes with its original tweed hardshell case.