1968 Gibson ES-345
The 1968 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
$4,200–$6,000
Very Good
$2,400–$4,200
Good
$1,200–$2,400
Fair
$600–$1,200
* 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 | Grover Rotomatic |
| Finish Options | Sunburst, Cherry Red, Natural |
| Est. Production | 1,200 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two humbucking pickups with stereo wiring and Varitone switch.
What Changed in 1968
Norlin-era 345. Production increasing. Indian rosewood fingerboard.
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.