1935 - 1936 National Hawaiian - Rare Early Features - New Yorker - Lap Steel - w/ Case

1935–36 National Hawaiian Steel

Early Three-Pickup Variant | All Original | With Original Case, Cable & Slide

This is an exceptionally rare early 1935–36 National Hawaiian Steel, representing one of the most short-lived and fascinating configurations ever produced by National.

Built during a brief transitional period just before the model would be renamed the New Yorker, this example features the highly sought-after early specification including three pickups, four control knobs, bass-side Amphenol output jack, and the early shield logo. This exact combination was only produced for a few months between late 1935 and early 1936. While precise production numbers are unknown, long-standing research and collector consensus place these on the very rare end of the National steel spectrum — possibly fewer than 300 instruments total.

Unlike most lap steels of the era, which typically carried a single bridge pickup, this early National uses a complex trio-pickup layout: one bridge pickup and two concealed beneath the fingerboard. The result is a remarkably wide tonal range, capable of everything from smooth, singing Hawaiian voices to aggressive, howling and screaming tones when pushed.

This instrument is 100% original, unmodified, and fully functional. All three pickups are healthy and responsive, and the controls operate exactly as intended. It is a truly beautiful Art Deco design — skyscraper styling meets early electric-era experimentation — and a wonderful example of National’s bold innovation during the mid-1930s.

The original case is also in excellent condition, and this steel includes its original cable and slide, making it an increasingly rare complete set.

A true survivor that’s equally at home being played, displayed, or — ideally — both.

Available for a test drive in our Jamestown, Kentucky showroom, and we ship worldwide. Let us know if you have any questions!

Weight: 7lbs 8oz