Auction Name: 2025 December 5 Vintage Guitars and Musical Instruments Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 85218

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/7407*85218

Norman Blake's circa 1930-1933 National Style O Resonator Guitar, Serial #S2093.
This National Style O resonator guitar, serial #S2093, dates from approximately 1930 to 1933. This example was owned and played by acclaimed Americana and folk guitarist Norman Blake, and shows moderate playwear with minor dents, consistent with active use. The Hawaiian etching is very faint. It comes with a letter of authenticity signed by Norman Blake on Gruhns Guitars letterhead, dated November 25, 1998, where Blake confirms that he used this guitar to record his 1976 album Chattanooga Sugar Babe. The included LOA features Blake's signature, pre-certified by PSA/DNA and Beckett Authentication Services.

No case included. Condition: Good.

This instrument represents not only a beautiful example of early National craftsmanship but also a direct connection to one of America's most respected acoustic musicians. Norman Blake's influence spans decades of American roots music, contributing to recordings with Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and his own critically acclaimed solo work. The Style O is known for its rich, metallic voice and projection, perfectly suited for the fingerstyle and slide techniques Blake was renowned for. The fact that this exact instrument was used to record Chattanooga Sugar Babe-an album celebrated for its traditional authenticity and artistry-makes it a culturally and historically important piece. For collectors, musicians, and fans of Americana, this guitar is not just an instrument but a significant artifact from one of the genre's modern pioneers.


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