1961 Gibson ES-345
The 1961 ES-345 — the deluxe semi-hollow with stereo output and Varitone tone circuit. More versatile than the 335, with gold hardware and additional tonal options.
Current Market Value
Excellent
$14,000–$20,000
Very Good
$8,000–$14,000
Good
$4,000–$8,000
Fair
$2,000–$4,000
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Maple/Poplar/Maple laminate (semi-hollow, center block) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Brazilian Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge with Bigsby vibrato or stop tailpiece |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe |
| Finish Options | Sunburst, Cherry Red, Natural |
| Est. Production | 400 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two PAF humbucking pickups with stereo wiring and Varitone 6-position rotary switch.
What Changed in 1961
Block inlays introduced. PAF pickups still standard.
Collector's Notes
The Varitone circuit is a defining feature — guitars with original Varitone intact command premium. Many have been converted to mono or had the Varitone removed. Stop tailpiece versions are more valuable than Bigsby.