Help me identify this guitar (Montgomery Ward & Co)

[Pineapple Pete]

I've seen many pictorial examples of late-19th-C. catalog guitars such as Ward and Washburn. I agree that it's an American Conservatory and I'd be willing to bet it was made by Lyon & Healy in Chicago, as I've seen dozens of pics that are nearly if not totally identical.

1890s, spruce over rosewood. Don't just bring that guitar to any old shop; ask here about the most-respected luthiers in your region and get it into the hands of someone who works on fine instruments.

No, that wasn't the creme de la creme of its day, but 125 years ago, "cheap" materials were miles better than the junk at a comparable price-point today.

[sdelsolray]

Originally Posted by John Arnold

Probably Chicago made. It is worth pro level repairs....the back and sides are Brazilian rosewood.

++

Add to this that the back is solid Braz RW, not a laminate.

[rogthefrog]

Originally Posted by Cabarone

I'll make it $16...but you've gotta pay shipping...

You guys are crazy. Never pay more than 50% of MSRP for a used guitar. $7 tops.

[Jim Owen]

I agree with many of the above posters. It's likely a Lyon & Healy, a relative of the original Washburns.

I have an 1890s Washburn very much like your guitar, and it is a stellar instrument. The Brazilian Rosewood has a sound of it's on a small, 12 feet guitar.

It's very much worth repairing and keeping as a heirloom guitar.