When Did Solid Backs Return to the L-4?

[tomvwash]

I need to return to a previous thread on this subject, where Jabberwocky provided specific date of laminate v. solid backs. This one looks interesting, but I don't think they have it entirely correct. Im assuming from an earlier post that the L-4 was always laminate back until roughly 2004???

1987 Gibson L-4CES | Willie's American Guitars | Reverb

[vinnyv1k]

Correct

[tomvwash]

Correct

Here is seller's response to above:

Hi Thomas - interesting result. You're correct, the specification on that was not for a solid back but one of our luthiers (7 years at Collings, etc.) just inspected it closely, including of course on the inside through the f-holes and says that is in fact solid - corresponding identical dark grain lines, especially on the upper bout, both inside and out. Hope this helps and have a great day!

[6v6ster]

Wow what a great looking guitar!

[6v6ster]

Up to 2003 the L4ces had laminate maple back and sides. After has been solid mahogany. Top always solid spruce.
So if it’s mahog, is solid.

[powerwagonjohn]

As far as I know the L-4 CES used the mahogany laminated back and sides the same years as the ES-175 used the mahogany back and sides. We had a long discussion on these at one time. If one looks closely at the back you can see the transition from end grain to side grain on the carved back version. We know Hutch did not build these but none the less these are great guitars. Now I have pull out my 2009 L-4CES!
Thanks John