1969 Gibson ES-335

Late 1960s ES-335s offer excellent vintage semi-hollow tone at approachable prices. T-top humbuckers have their own clear, articulate character. These are outstanding player instruments.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$8,000$15,000
Very Good
$5,500$8,000
Good
$3,500$5,500
Fair
$1,800$3,500

* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology

Specifications

Body WoodMaple (semi-hollow thinline with solid center block)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardRosewood (block inlays)
Scale Length24.750"
Frets22
Pickup ConfigHH
BridgeABR-1 Tune-O-Matic, stop tailpiece
TunersGrover Rotomatic
Finish OptionsSunburst, Cherry, Walnut
Est. Production2,200

Pickups & Electronics

Two T-top humbuckers. 'Big neck' profile on some early 1969 examples.

What Changed in 1969

The ES-335 TD became the standard configuration. Grover tuners began replacing Kluson. The 335 remained Gibson's premier semi-hollow and was embraced by jazz, blues, and rock players.

Collector's Notes

Some late 1960s models have inconsistent construction quality. 'Big neck' examples from early 1969 are increasingly collected. Natural finish models command a premium.