1969 Gibson Les Paul Custom, Black

After making way for the SG shape in 1961 the Les Paul in it's original guise was reintroduced in July/August of 1968. The model saw many tweaks in the coming months leading to a number of different spec models in a relatively short period. 
This example has the desirable one-piece Mahogany body with a three-piece Mahogany neck, transitional tenon, Ebony fingerboard, no volute or "Made in USA" stamp along with all the usual Custom trimmings.

This one has been well cared for and remains in excellent overall condition. At some stage it has had replacement tuners fitted, with overspray to the rear of the headstock visible under blacklight. It has benefitted from a refret and a new nut making it a great player. The gold plating is in excellent shape, and overall the finish presents beautifully with only light surface scratches to the back. At 5.01kg it's less wieldy than some but it has a nice solid feel and retains good balance.

The original patent sticker humbuckers are a real highlight. Measuring 7.18k in the neck and 7.68k at the bridge, they deliver a warm, sustaining voice with plenty of depth at the neck, and a biting, articulate quality from the bridge pickup. The neck has a comfortable rounded C profile - more substantial than some slimmer early-70s examples.

All in all a very nice example with a few small changes to keep the price down. Complete with original orange lined hard case.