Gibson / Les Paul Standard / 1960 / Guitar For Sale
The Last Burst.
Almost certainly a special order guitar, here we have not only an unusually beautiful and highly figured sunburst Les Paul from the original series, but as far as anyone knows, the last one made. With a serial number over 300 units higher than the next latest one known, it dates to late 1960. The serial number has the second digit filled in instead of a space, which Gibson did on solid bodies until early ’61, in years when they ran out of 5 digit numbers towards the end of the year. The manufacturer’s date code places potentiometer production in the 28th week of 1960, and the guitar’s serial number puts it well after the introduction and production of a number of early SG Les Pauls, as some of these have lower numbers.
She sounds and plays great of course, but as Jay Scott said, regrettably, in his first book on ‘bursts; “It’s the wood that makes it good”. Or was that Kenny Rogers? Regardless, as Stan Jay might have written, ”imagine if you will, some of the most diseased maple ever to grace the loading dock of Kalamazoo’s finest” ( sorry Stan, wherever you are. ) From most angles we see profuse, continuous waves of tight flame which cover nearly the entire top. The medullary grain is very striking as well, and the curl has great depth and iridescence.
However, what sets it apart so beautifully from most 1960 ‘bursts is its unusually translucent finish and deep, rich color. Most ’60s are noticeably more opaque, and more of an orangey-red “tomato soup” looking affair, hence the derogatory tag “clown burst” assigned to many of them.
Fully original* and in exceptionally fine condition, the only issue is an old, clean heel repair with very minimal touch up. The repair dates back at least to the 1980’s. *The A & G tuners are a few years later, the originals are included and just need to be re-tipped. Pickup covers have been off and are back on.
Just as the first / earliest known sunburst Les Paul - which surfaced earlier this year - is historically significant, this too is an important instrument as it marks the end of an era at Gibson, and the end of production of what was to become their best known, most coveted and most iconic electric guitar.
Guitar Exchange, USA 
For close to 40 years we've served our local and regional music community, in addition to our world wide clientele of pros and collectors. Collector grade 'bursts, 'bones and D'angelicos pass thru our hands, as well as countless utility instruments for the player, which I'm pretty sure is who it's all about in the first place.
Many well known guitarists have trusted and validated our knowledge and advice, among them Robben Ford, Brian Setzer, Nils Lofgren, Kirk Hammett, Roy Buchanan, J. Geils, Kris Kristofferson and Keith Urban to name a few. You can expect to receive an instrument from us set-up and ready to play, guaranteed to be as represented.
Always buying and trading .... the usual: Gibson, Fender, Martin, Gretsch, Rickenbacker, National, Collings, Guild, PRS, Taylor, etc.
In these economically challenging times, just remember: Guitars will get you thru times of no money better than money will get you thru times of no guitars, unless we're buying your guitars, in which case you should just take the money.
Payment We accept all major credit cards, as well as all of the other usual methods; cash, bank check, money order and wire transfer. *For International sales we accept wire transfer or Paypal only, though you can process credit card payments thru Paypal. A 25% non-refundable deposit will hold an item for 30 days, other layaway terms considered. Layaway sales are final, no returns, 24 hour approval period is forfeited. Shipping Customer is responsible for all shipping, handling and insurance charges, as well as any and all freight claims, but rest assured, we are THE BEST at packing. Worldwide service available via UPS, USPS, FEDEX, BAX GLOBAL, or other carrier of your choice, pending our approval. Customer is responsible for all sales tax where applicable, as well as any and all duties, brokerage fees, etc. on international shipments. Returns All items shipped on 24 hour approval. If not completely satisfied, call within the allotted time for return authorization for full refund, minus shipping. Customer is responsible for any and all taxes, duties, brokerage fees, VAT, etc. and are non-refundable. Guitar must be returned in the same condition you received it in. If you need other terms or arrangements just give a call, we're reasonable people over here. No returns on amps, pedals or keyboards. Buy / Trade / Consign We buy instruments outright, take them in trade and take them in on consignment. Give us a call. bruce@guitarexchangeonline.com phone: 410-747-0122 Guitar Exchange - 740 Frederick Road - Baltimore Maryland, 21228 All Material © 2010 by Guitar Exchange, Inc. ® All Rights Reserved
