1976 Gibson Explorer

The 1976 Explorer reissue used genuine Korina — making it substantially more authentic than later mahogany versions. An excellent collectible that bridges the original 1958 design with modern playability.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$5,000$10,000
Very Good
$3,200$5,000
Good
$2,000$3,200
Fair
$1,000$2,000

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

Specifications

Body WoodKorina (reissued with original Korina construction)
Neck WoodKorina
FingerboardRosewood
Scale Length24.750"
Frets22
Pickup ConfigHH
BridgeABR-1 Tune-O-Matic, stop tailpiece
TunersGrover Rotomatic
Finish OptionsNatural Korina, Black
Est. Production700

Pickups & Electronics

Two T-top humbuckers. Good vintage humbuckers with clear, bright character.

What Changed in 1976

Gibson reissued the Explorer in 1976 using original Korina wood — a nod to the 1958 original that had become legendary. These are highly collectible as the first proper reissue of the original design.

Collector's Notes

Verify actual Korina construction (vs. later mahogany versions). Natural Korina finish is the most collectible. T-top humbuckers are correct for this era — good sounding pickups.