Oscar Schmidt Sovereign Concert c.1923

Oscar Schmidt Sovereign Concert c.1923

During the 1920s the Oscar Schmidt company in New Jersey was one of America’s largest instrument makers, producing Stella, Sovereign and LaScala brand guitars.  Notable players include Robert Johnson, Lead Belly, Charlie Patton and Doc Watson.  Dating from c.1923, this Sovereign is an upper-level Oscar Schmidt model, reflected in the bound fretboard and the intricate multi wood purfling around the sound hole, the backstrip and – in combination with a celluloid outer layer – all around the top and back.  Ladder braced with Mahogany back and sides and Spruce top, the guitar features a ‘moustache bridge’, large pearl fret marker inlays, a slotted head stock and ivory bridge pins.  A fine 100-year-old historic instrument, delightful to play with a strong balanced voice, and showing no issues apart from two hairline cracks on the lower back and playing wear on the treble side of the soundhole.  Comes with a slightly newer c. 1940s black hard case.