1960 Gibson ES-345
The 1960 ES-345 features original PAF humbuckers in the upscale 335 format with Varitone and stereo wiring. These are underappreciated relative to the 335 and represent excellent value in the dot-neck era.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Maple (laminated, solid center block) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic ABR-1 with stop-bar or Bigsby |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe double-ring |
| Finish Options | Cherry, Sunburst, Natural |
Pickups & Electronics
Two PAF humbuckers. The ES-345 added Varitone switch (6-position tone selector) and stereo wiring over the standard 335.
What Changed in 1960
The ES-345 was positioned between the 335 and 355 — adding the Varitone circuit and stereo output. Many players bypassed the Varitone; its presence/absence affects collectibility.
Collector's Notes
The Varitone inductor coil is often missing or bypassed — originality of the Varitone circuit affects value. Natural finish is extremely rare. PAF pickups are the primary value driver.