Lowden
Since 1974
Lowden Guitars was founded in 1974 by George Lowden in Northern Ireland. George made his first guitar at age 10 and founded the company at 22. Lowden pioneered the A-frame bracing system and dolphin voicing profiles in 1976, which became hallmarks of the brand's distinctive tone. The lineup includes the Original Series, 35 Series (S-35, O-35), and 50 Series. A partnership with Ed Sheeran led to the Sheeran by Lowden sub-brand. Every Lowden is handcrafted with no UV finish—traditional nitro or oil finishes only. New guitars range from $3,000 to $8,000+. Used Lowdens average $2,800 with 4% annual appreciation. Notable players include Eric Clapton, Gary Lightbody, and Ed Sheeran.
52
Years in Business
40K+
Guitars Sold
$12M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Lowden Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Lowden guitars.
Lowden Price Overview
Lowden covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$2,800
+4% vs last year
eBay Listings
95
Active listings
Sold This Month
22
+5% vs last month
Price Range
$2,000-$8,500
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Lowden Timeline
First Guitar at Age 10
George Lowden built his first guitar at age 10, beginning a lifelong passion for luthiery.
Lowden Guitars Founded
At 22, George Lowden founded Lowden Guitars in Northern Ireland, building handcrafted acoustic guitars.
A-Frame and Dolphin Voicing
Introduced A-frame bracing and dolphin voicing profiles—innovations that define Lowden's distinctive tone.
Original Series
The Original Series became the flagship, showcasing Lowden's handcrafted approach and tonal character.
35 and 50 Series
Expanded with 35 Series (S-35, O-35) and 50 Series, offering tiered options for different budgets.
Ed Sheeran Partnership
Collaboration with Ed Sheeran led to the Sheeran by Lowden sub-brand, dramatically increasing visibility.
Handcrafted Standard
Lowden maintained 100% handcrafted production with no UV finish—nitro and oil only.
Global Acoustic Benchmark
Lowden remains a benchmark for handcrafted acoustics; used prices appreciate 4% annually.
Complete Lowden Product Lineup
Lowden: A-frame bracing and dolphin voicing—handcrafted in Northern Ireland with no UV finish, just tone
Original Series
Flagship handcrafted acoustics
Flagship at ~$5,000–$8,000+
35 Series
Mid-tier with A-frame and dolphin voicing
Small body at ~$3,500–$4,500
Orchestra body at ~$3,500–$4,500
50 Series
Entry-level Lowden quality
Entry at ~$3,000–$4,000
Sheeran by Lowden
Ed Sheeran collaboration sub-brand
Collaboration models
"Lowden: A-frame bracing and dolphin voicing—handcrafted in Northern Ireland with no UV finish, just tone"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Original Series Guide
Flagship Handcrafted
The Original Series ($5,000–$8,000+) represents the pinnacle of Lowden. Every guitar is hand-built with A-frame bracing and dolphin voicing—no CNC, no shortcuts.
No UV Finish
Lowden uses traditional nitro or oil finishes only—no UV. This allows the wood to breathe and age naturally, contributing to tone over time.
Eric Clapton and Ed Sheeran
Eric Clapton, Gary Lightbody, and Ed Sheeran play Lowden. The Sheeran partnership brought the brand to a massive audience.
35 Series Guide
S-35 and O-35
The 35 Series ($3,500–$4,500) delivers the same A-frame and dolphin voicing at a lower price. S-35 is small body; O-35 is orchestra.
George Lowden's Innovation
George built his first guitar at 10 and founded the company at 22. Fifty years of refinement goes into every Lowden.
Used Value
Used Lowdens average $2,800 with 4% annual appreciation. Well-maintained examples hold value well.
Used Lowden Buying Guide
Stable Appreciation
Used Lowden prices have risen 4% annually. The handcrafted nature and limited production support long-term value.
Check the Top
Lowden uses solid woods throughout. Inspect the top for cracks, especially along the grain. The bridge and neck joint should be clean.
Finish Condition
Nitro and oil finishes age differently from poly. Light wear is normal; major finish damage can affect value. Original finish is preferred.