1965 Gibson Firebird
The 1965 Firebird V 'non-reverse' is a transitional and divisive model — the reversed-body classic redesigned with a more conventional shape. Collectors generally prefer the original reverse-body design, but the Firebird V non-reverse has its own following.
Current Market Value
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Mahogany ('non-reverse' body from late 1965) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic with stop-bar |
| Tuners | Standard 3-on-a-side Kluson |
| Finish Options | Sunburst, Custom Colors |
Pickups & Electronics
Two Firebird mini-humbuckers. The non-reverse body (introduced 1965) flipped the body orientation — more conventional but less distinctive.
What Changed in 1965
Gibson redesigned the Firebird in 1965 to a 'non-reverse' body in an attempt to boost sales. The result was less distinctive — collectors prefer the original 'reverse' design.
Collector's Notes
The non-reverse body is considered less desirable than the original reverse design by most collectors, though custom color examples can command strong prices. These should not be confused with the more collectible reverse-body models.