1955 Gibson Les Paul

1955 Gibson Les Paul

The Gibson Les Paul Gold Top needs no introduction. The P90 equipped version is an amazing guitar and had quietly impressed many players over the years. This is the second variation of the original Gibson Les Paul Goldtop with a wraparound style tailpiece instead of the trapeze tailpiece found on earlier models.

This guitar also features what is referred to as the All-Gold Finish. Unlike most examples which feature a natural mahogany body and neck, this guitar has been given the gold-all-over treatment. Although as you can see, most of that old gold lacquer has worn off the neck, leaving a beautifully smooth natural mahogany finish.

Original production of the Les Paul spanned the years 1952 through 1960, when the body shape changed to what we now know as the SG shape. The original Les Paul design was reintroduced briefly in 1968 as essentially a reissue of the 1955 Les Paul, with a pair of P-90 pickups, but with a tune-o-matic bridge. However, most collectors agree that the pinnacle of Gibson’s guitar making craft was the mid to late fifties.

According to Gibson’s records 862 Les Paul Standard Model guitars were shipped in 1955. Arguably the most recognizable guitar ever produced. The sound and look of the Gibson Les Paul has changed the course of music history.

This guitar is largely original except for a pro refret some time ago, and the neck pickup was rewound in USA by Lindy Fralin. It has a newer Music City stud finder wraparound bridge but the orginal is in the case.

A big bonus with this ’55 is that it comes in its original Lifton 4 latch case which is great condition.