Santa Cruz H Model 50th Anniversary (997)

Introduced in 1978, the H Model stands as one of Santa Cruz Guitar Company's earliest and most enduring departures from tradition. Inspired by a rare vintage design and brought to life through a collaboration with artist and luthier Paul Hostetter, the H challenged the notion that power comes from size—proving instead that balance, responsiveness, and tonal complexity could define a new standard. With its distinctive proportions and deeply expressive voice, the H quickly became a favorite among players seeking nuance and immediacy. What began as a bold experiment has since evolved into one of our most iconic models—equally at home in delicate fingerstyle passages and dynamic, articulate rhythm work. Our 50th Anniversary H Model honors that original vision with a refined, modern interpretation—celebrating the guitar that helped redefine what a small-bodied instrument could be. Like all the 50th Anniversary Editions, these come with a custom scrimshaw heel cap and our wax-sealed 50th Anniversary label, but also a custom purfle combo top border, which keeps the instrument aesthetically similar to our other 50th Anniversary offerings.

Back & Side Wood: Indian Rosewood
Back Stripe: S29
Body Binding: Ivoroid
Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
Rosette: Ivoroid
Purfling: Herringbone
Bracing/Voicing: Double Tapered with Bass Scallop
Peghead: Solid VJ
Peghead Binding: None
Headstock Overlay: Ebony
Headstock Inlay: SCGC
Neck Shape: Round
Nut Width: 1 11/16"
Fingerboard Side Dots: Black
Fingerboard Inlays: 2mm Dots
Fingerboard Width at 14th Fret: 2 3/16"
Fingerboard Binding: Ivoroid
Scale Length: 25.375"
Top Finish: Clear
Back & Side Finish: Clear/Buffed
Neck Finish: Clear/Matte
Pickguard: Tortoise
Tuning Machines: Nickel Waverly
Strings: SCGC Low Tension