1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop

An exceptional instrument from the dawn of the Humbucker era. The Les Paul Standard saw many changes throughout the '50s leading to the introduction of this variant in 1957 with Gibson's Seth Lover designed humbucker pickups that were set to change the world or rock n roll. The Les Paul Goldtop remains one of Gibson’s most evocative creations, and this example, serial number 7 3317, is a wonderfully well-preserved survivor 5 numbers away from Duane Allman's "Layla" model. It is featured in the Goldtop Believers publication by Vic da Pra and David Plues, page 218.

The finish is entirely correct under blacklight with no signs of overspray or touch-up, and the top has developed a beautiful patina with fine lacquer checking, subtle edge wear and only very minor discolouration. There's no doubt, this a stunning looking instrument.

The guitar is all original besides a refret (during which the fingerboard was lightly sanded), strap locks with new screws and the G-string saddle. The plastics comprise of the original M-69 pickup rings and poker chip with black control cavity and switch plates. Pickups are original long-magnet PAFs with Phillips head brass bassplate screws on the bridge pickup and nickel on the neck The cover solder appears to have been disturbed in the past but the stickers remain intact and in good condition. In the control cavity you’ll find the original pots and the correct bumblebee capacitors still in place.

Condition overall is superb for its age. The guitar shows light but elegant signs of use: gentle edge wear, no notable buckle rash, and a pleasing network of lacquer checking across the top and back.

Tonally, it has to be said that this is one of the finest sounding PAF equipped Les Pauls we have encountered. The pickups are extraordinary - superbly well balance, airy with a nice bite/attack, rich sustain and a beautifully articulate string-to-string response.The neck carve is full but never cumbersome, sitting comfortably in the hand and with newer frets installed the playability is excellent.

Housed in its original brown/pink Stone case, this is a standout example of a pivotal year in Gibson’s history. An inspiring instrument.