Steinberger L2 Bass – Unrestored – Hap Kuffner Collection

A Rare Piece of Bass History – Unrestored Steinberger L2 from the Legendary Hap Kuffner Collection

For sale is an extraordinary 1980s Steinberger L2 Bass, preserved in original, unrestored condition, from the personal collection of Harold “Hap” Kuffner—a pivotal figure in the vintage instrument world and co-founder of the legendary Mandolin Brothers shop in Staten Island, New York. This bass represents a unique intersection of American lutherie history and groundbreaking instrument design.

The Man Behind the Collection: Hap Kuffner’s Documented Legacy

Harold “Hap” Kuffner was:

• Co-founder of Mandolin Brothers (1971) with Stan Jay, establishing one of America’s most respected vintage instrument shops
• Early collaborator with Ned Steinberger, playing a key role in Steinberger history

Verified Steinberger Connection

Kuffner’s involvement with Steinberger instruments is well-documented:

• Worked closely with Ned Steinberger in the late 1970s during the development of the first graphite instruments
• Owned prototype and early production models, including this L2 series bass

About This Particular Bass

This Steinberger L2 represents:
✔ Original, unmodified condition exactly as used by Kuffner
✔ Documented history through Hap Kuffner and Ned Steinberger’s personal letters
✔ Time-capsule specifications including:

• Original EMG pickups
• Graphite epoxy construction
• Period-correct hardware
• Kuffner’s preferred setup

Condition: Shows honest play wear consistent with professional use but no structural issues. All original components intact.

Why This Instrument Matters

1. Direct provenance to one of the most important figures in vintage instruments
2. Historical significance as part of the Steinberger revolution
3. Investment potential – Kuffner-associated instruments have shown consistent appreciation
4. Rarity as an unmodified example from this period

Included Items

• Steinberger L2 Bass
• Original period-correct gig-bag
• Documentation of provenance

Price reflects the instrument’s historical significance and collector status.

Sources & Verification

All claims are verifiable through:

• Archival records
• Steinberger company history documents
• New articles (multiple features on Kuffner)

Certificate of authenticity

This isn’t just a bass – it’s a piece of American musical innovation history, with direct ties to two of the most important names in instrument design. A rare opportunity for serious collectors.