Description
What makes this guitar special: This 10-string design was invented by Eddie Alkire in the 1930’s, and primarily sold to his advanced lap steel students. These were made in greater number under the Valco name in the 1950’s and 60’s, but these early model Epiphone pieces are very rare and sought after. The 10-strings can accommodate many tunings, but being the virtuoso player that he was, Alkire used his own nearly chromatic tuning (E-C#-B-A-G#-G-F#-F-E-C#). Within this tuning he used the high 6 strings for melody and the low 4 strings for bass. This lap steel is in all original condition, save for the jack, which appears to have been replaced by a previous owner. It has obviously been well cared for over the years, and showcases almost no wear-it even comes with the original case! This piece has been professionally inspected by our in-house luthier and is in fully functioning condition.
Cosmetic condition: Exceptional condition for its age. There are various surface and playwear scratches throughout the instrument, as well as a few small nicks, dings, and scuffs, and expected finish checking. The white lacquer top has aged nicely into a lovely cream color, and there are a few missing inlay dots, in addition to some light oxidation on the hardware.
Body: Solid wood body with black finished back and sides, felt covered electronics access plate, and aged white top. String-through-body design with aluminum bridge and clear pickguard. 9 3/4" width, and 1 3/4" body depth.
Weight: 8lb, 12oz
Neck: Rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays. Aluminum nut measure 3 1/8”. Headstock features an Eddie Alkire Eharp badge, and nickel Epiphone “E” stamped tuners with original plastic tuning buttons. 22 1/2" scale length.
Electronics: Epiphone Master Pickup with black plastic knobs, 1x tone, 1x volume.
Case: Original hard shell case.
