What have we here? A super tidy (in fact near enough Mint) 1961 Gibson Melody Maker in its original sunburst finish.

Introduced in 1959, the Melody Maker was designed as an inexpensive to the Gibson experience that was cheaper to produce than the Junior. As such you get thinner body depth, a slimmed down and straight sided headstock and all the electronics being preassembled on the pickguard prior to being attached to the guitar. The single cut version was replaced with a double cut in 1961.

Despite the cost cutting measures, these are still instruments from Gibson’s golden era. This one in particular has a lot going for it. A single coil pickups gives you that route one immediacy and a bite that you just can’t get anywhere else.

Electrics are all correct too, with a pair of centrelab pots dated week 40 1961 making this one of the last few to leave the factory as a single cut body shape.

The finish on this is in astonishing condition, particularly as these guitars were often starter guitars, its unusual to see one that’s led such a charmed life. In fact if you look under the pickguard there is zero fading.

The neck is reasonably chunky and very comfortable to play, while the original frets are in just about brand new condition with zero wear on the fingerboard. Just take a look at the pics..

It comes with a hardshell case.

The cleanest original Melody Maker out there at the moment? Most probably… If you’re after something a bit different to add to your collection or a quirky guitar from Gibson’s history, this is definitely a guitar you need to consider…