1968 Gibson Firebird
The 1968 Firebird — non-reverse body, set-neck construction. Simplified production model.
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 | Mahogany (glued-in neck, non-reverse body shape) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany (through-body on reverse models) |
| Fingerboard | Brazilian Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-o-matic bridge with stop tailpiece |
| Tuners | Standard Kluson Deluxe |
| Finish Options | Sunburst, Cardinal Red, Pelham Blue, Polaris White, Inverness Green, Frost Blue |
| Est. Production | 800 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two P-90-style pickups (non-reverse models used different pickups).
What Changed in 1968
Non-reverse Firebird. Sales declining.
Collector's Notes
Non-reverse Firebirds are undervalued and excellent players. Lower values than reverse models but quality instruments.
How to Authenticate a 1968 Gibson Firebird
Check the serial number on the back of the headstock — ink-stamped numbers should fall within documented ranges for 1968. Potentiometer date codes are critical: look for CTS pots (code 137) with two-digit year codes matching 1968 or up to 18 months earlier. This is the most reliable dating method for Gibson guitars of this era. Gibson used nitrocellulose lacquer through the late 1960s. Check for natural checking and wear patterns. Under UV light, original finishes fluoresce differently than refinishes. Check for original mini-humbuckers — these distinctive narrow pickups should have correct chrome covers and mounting. Non-reverse body — conventional glued-in neck. Check for headstock repairs. Original Standard Kluson Deluxe should be present with no evidence of replacement (no oversized bushing holes). Original hardshell case adds provenance value.