NMM 6073.  Guitar by Gibson, Inc., Kalamazoo, 1936.  Super 400, Super Grand Auditorium Size (18"). "Small" scale.  Serial number 93759.  Factory order number 777 5. Board of Trustees, 1997. The Gibson Super 400 was an aptly named model daringly introduced at the end of 1934, during the Great Depression. Selling for a princely $400 when new, the Super 400 was a top-of-the-line guitar made from fine materials, with a large body for projecting through the bands of the era. It was eagerly embraced by professional guitarists employed by radio stations, movie studios, and with big bands playing pre-War jazz and popular music across the country. Front, Side, and Back Views This guitar features Gibson's Sunburst finish. Peghead, Tuner, and Fretboard This Super 400 guitar features an inlaid mother-of-pearl design on the peghead and ebony fretboard. Soundholes, Bridge, and Pick Guard Soundholes (above) Close-up of Bridge (below) Pick Guard (above) The Super 400 was introduced at the same time as several other arch-top guitars with f-holes, the L-7, L-10, and L-12. The 18-inch body width of the Super 400 prompted other arch-top makers, such as Elmer Stromberg and John D’Angelico, to begin producing giant instruments. Tailpiece The Super 400 was distinguished from Gibson’s other arch-top models by sumptuous details, such as gold-plated metal parts (as seen here on the tailpiece), engraving, highly figured maple, and choice spruce. Super / "400" is engraved on the upper end of the tailpiece. Return to Gibson Acoustic Guitar Checklist National Music Museum The University of South Dakota 414 East Clark Street Vermillion, SD 57069 ©National Music Museum, 2005-2008 Most recent update: January 7, 2008 You are the 6,091st visitor to this page since April 15, 2005 The University of South Dakota Return to Top of Page