1950s Kay Size 5 "Terz" Guitar

Overview: It's hard not to admire these adorable little Kays. This one is entirely original, too, save for a new bone saddle. While a lot of folks might call this a 3/4 guitar, back in the 1800s folks called them "terz" guitars when they came in this size as the tuning was meant to be a third higher than standard pitch. That's what we've done here -- it's strung with 11s and tuned G to G at the moment -- though if it were restrung with 12s or 13s it would do E to E standard just fine.

Interesting features: The "curl-around" stringing on the original bridge is neat. It's not a very practical design but it does look cool. This guy also has an original set of Kluson tuners which is nice to have. It's pretty clean through and, post-work, plays quick and easy. The neck on this is a little smaller and faster than usual for Kays from the time and it reminds me more of the feel of Gibson LG-2 3/4 models than proper Kays.

Repairs included: Jose gave it a neck reset, fret level/dress, and fit a new bone saddle with good compensation. It's playing spot-on and ready to go.

• Weight: 2 lbs 14 oz
• Scale length: 21 3/4"
• Nut width: 1 5/8"
• Neck shape: medium C
• Board radius: 10"
• Depth at first fret: 15/16"
• Depth at seventh fret: 1"
• Body width: 11"
• Body depth: 3 1/2"
• Top wood: solid spruce
• Back & sides wood: ply mahogany
• Bracing type: ladder
• Bridge: rosewood original
• Fretboard: rosewood
• Neck wood: mahogany
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast, spot-on)
• String gauges: 50w-11 (tuned up G-to-G "terz")
• Neck relief: straight
• Fret style: medium-wide

Condition notes: Everything is original to the guitar save the new bone saddle. It's got some scratches and scuffs here and there and the finish has weather-checking throughout, but overall it's a lot cleaner than most of these are. The headstock stencil is even still in good shape.

It comes with: Sorry, no case.

Consignor tag: DVCH