2015 Gibson Collectors Choice CC05 Donna '59 Les Paul, Aged

Launched in 2010 and discontinued by the end of the decade, the Collector’s Choice series aimed to reproduce some of the best known 'Burst and Goldtop models from 1957 to 1960. As a level above the ‘Historic’ models, Gibson painstakingly sourced and selected woods to best match the originals, and went about ageing each guitar by hand to recreate the look, feel, condition and patina of each model.

This is a superb replica of the fabled '59 Les Paul Standard nicknamed "Donna" from Tom Wittrock's collection, serial no. 9 1923. CC05 took a while to get through to final production due to the lengthy process of sourcing wood - particularly the quarter-sawn book-matched Maple top - that would do "Donna" justice and reflect the stunning look of the original.  9 1923 has the most striking of flame and colour, retaining much of the cherry red finish that often succumbs to fade over time. 
The colour on this example is rich and vibrant, representing the original very well, and details such as the yellowed binding and aged Nickel hardware finishes off what is a fantastic looking Les Paul. This models was made to Gibson's 'True Historic' spec which means you get unparalleled detail in wood selection, accurate materials like hide glue, fret and binding treatment, a more accurate top carve and unparalleled detail in the replication of plastics and hardware. 
The flame Maple top on this model is quite striking, fairly linear, well matched and bold, consistent with the original guitar. The Murphy ageing has been done tastefully and reflects the excellent overall condition of the original guitar with only a few dings and knocks, as well as lacquer checking and overall patina. 
The neck is typical '59 - full in the hand but supportive and comfortable, and overall this guitar plays incredibly well. The necks on these models were digitally scanned so they could perfectly replicate the original. Pickups are Burstbucker 3 with Alnico V magnets offering a strong output, tight bass, strong mids and a bright, glassy top end.
Gibson's Collectors Choice series has produced some of the best Gibson guitars for decades, and we feel these are set to be great investments for the future. The work that goes in to each individual model is inspiring, and very apparent with the first strum. This is a fantastic recreation of one of the world's most desirable guitars, and it comes complete with the original case, COA booklet and hang tags.