PRS CE 22 Maple Top Tremolo 1997 - Tortoise Shell

This 1997 PRS CE22 is one of those late-’90s Maryland-built PRS guitars that immediately feels special in person. Finished in the deep, glossy Tortoiseshell burst, the flamed maple top has a ton of movement under the light, with a rich dark outer edge that gives it a much more refined look than the usual burst finish.

The CE22 was PRS’s 22-fret bolt-on model, pairing the snap and clarity of a maple neck with the warmth and sustain of a carved maple top over mahogany. This one has the feel you want from an older CE: substantial without being oversized, comfortable in the hand, and extremely stable. The neck is straight, the action is comfortable, intonation is spot on, and it has fresh strings along with PRS locking tuners.

It is loaded with PRS Dragon 2 humbuckers, which give this guitar a really strong, punchy voice with plenty of clarity and output. This example is currently configured with a three-way toggle and two-knob control layout, with no coil splitting. It sounds fantastic and is ready to play immediately.

Condition is very good overall, especially for a guitar approaching 30 years old. There are some small dings, light bumps, and normal signs of age here and there, but nothing that takes away from how great it presents. The top looks beautiful, the neck is in excellent condition, the frets have plenty of life, and everything functions exactly as it should.

Includes the original PRS hardshell case and original PRS inspection paperwork.

Weight: 9.15 lbs on my scale.

What stood out to me:

• Deep Tortoiseshell finish over a beautifully figured flamed maple top

• Late-’90s Maryland-made CE22 with the classic bolt-on PRS feel

• PRS Dragon 2 humbuckers with a strong, articulate voice

• Comfortable fuller neck profile that still feels fast and easy to play

• Excellent fret condition, straight neck, spot-on intonation, and great setup

• Includes original PRS hardshell case and inspection paperwork

Like all my guitars, this one’s been cared for and dialed in—no guesswork, no surprises, just a great instrument that’s ready to play. I personally inspect and test every guitar before it ships, making sure it’s in the exact condition I’d want to receive myself. These guitars come from me, not a shop—each one gets the kind of attention and care only a real guitar lover gives. Ships fast and insured.

⏳ Quick note

These guitars don’t usually sit. Most are purchased within 1–5 days, and I regularly hear from watchers after the listing has already sold. If this one’s on your radar, now’s the window!