1959 Gibson Les Paul
The 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard 'Burst' is widely considered the holy grail of electric guitars. With only 643 produced, original PAF humbuckers, spectacular figured maple tops, and a neck profile that players have tried to replicate for 60+ years, these instruments command prices that rival fine art. The 'Burst' has become a cultural icon beyond the guitar world.
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 (body), Figured Maple (carved top) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 24.750" |
| Frets | 22 |
| Pickup Config | HH |
| Bridge | Tune-O-Matic ABR-1 with stop-bar tailpiece |
| Tuners | Kluson Deluxe double-ring |
| Nut Width | 1.69" |
| Finish Options | Sunburst (cherry-to-yellow-to-cherry), Tobacco Sunburst |
| Est. Production | 643 |
Pickups & Electronics
Two PAF humbucking pickups. The 1959 PAFs are often cited as the finest-sounding vintage pickups ever made — the exact wind and materials of this year are considered optimal by many collectors.
What Changed in 1959
The neck profile became slightly slimmer than 1958, though still full. The top carving and flame maple quality is generally considered the finest of the Burst era. Many players and collectors consider the 1959 the finest electric guitar ever produced.
Notable Examples
Peter Green's Les Paul (1959, now owned by Kirk Hammett of Metallica — sold for $2M+), Gary Moore's 'Greeny' Les Paul, Billy Gibbons' 'Pearly Gates' (1959), Duane Allman's several Bursts.
Collector's Notes
Pricing for 1959 Les Paul Bursts can reach seven figures for exceptional, highly original examples. The top flame figure, originality of all components, and color (how much red remains in the sunburst) all dramatically affect value. Authentication is mandatory — forgeries exist.