1933 National Tricone Style 3 Hawaiian Laptseel

Serial number 3323 is stamped into the back of the headstock, making this one of the very last recorded squareneck serial numbers in the original National numbering sequence. The patent number stamps confirm the 1933 date, along with the later tuner style with pointed baseplates and gears on top. The hand engraved German Silver body features “Variation #5” of the Lily Of The Valley pattern, a favorite among National enthusiasts because the engraving flows through the coverplate and boldly fills the guitar body.

The National String Instrument Corporation changed the future of music by inventing the tricone resonator guitar in Los Angeles in the 1920’s. Their engraved Style 3 Hawaiian model was an expensive luxury that few could afford in the wake of the Great Depression. This rare tricone has survived in all original condition with shiny plating and detailed engraving that attracts attention when playing live. All three cones are original, along with the tailpiece and tuners. The National shield logo is engraved in the pearloid headstock overly. The flaws are minor, including a bump at the edge of the lower bout where you rest your right arm, and a few rub marks in the plating from going in and out of the case. Today we consider it an antique art object as well as a musical instrument. The flowing, musical tone fits perfectly in Hawaiian, Blues and Country songs.