1958 Gibson Explorer
The 1958 Gibson Explorer — one of only 19 made — is among the rarest electric guitars in existence. The angular Korina body and PAF humbuckers create a unique instrument. Pristine examples have sold for well over a million dollars.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
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Specifications
| Body Wood | Korina (African Limba wood — same as Flying V) |
| Neck Wood | Korina |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic, stop tailpiece |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe (3-on-a-side, explorer headstock) |
| Finish Options | Natural Korina |
| Est. Production | 19 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two PAF humbuckers. The Explorer's angular body design positions pickups in unusual locations.
What Changed in 1958
First year of the Explorer — one of two radical 'Modernist' designs alongside the Flying V. Only 19 were made in 1958, making originals extraordinarily rare. Originally called the 'Futura.'
Notable Examples
The Explorer inspired an entire category of angular-body guitars. Eric Clapton, U2's The Edge, and James Hetfield are associated with Explorer designs.
Collector's Notes
Extreme caution required — this is among the most forged guitar models in existence. Every known 1958 Explorer is documented. Any claimed 1958 Explorer requires extensive authentication by multiple experts. Never purchase without provenance.
How to Authenticate a 1958 Gibson Explorer
Gibson serial numbers from this era are ink-stamped on the back of the headstock. Cross-reference with known Gibson serial tables — numbering was not strictly sequential. Potentiometer date codes are critical: look for CTS pots (code 137) with two-digit year codes matching 1958 or up to 18 months earlier. This is the most reliable dating method for Gibson guitars of this era. The finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer showing age-appropriate checking (fine crazing). Under blacklight, original nitro fluoresces a distinctive green-yellow — refinished instruments lack this characteristic. Original PAF humbuckers with gold-plated covers — authentication by a recognized expert is mandatory at these values. Korina body — fewer than 50 originals known. Multiple expert authentications mandatory. Provenance essential. Original Kluson Deluxe (3-on-a-side, explorer headstock) should be present with no evidence of replacement (no oversized bushing holes). Original hardshell case adds provenance value.