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1967 Gibson L-5CES

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Serial #: 891694, orange oval label.

Body size at lower bout: 17", Scale length: 25 1/2" Nut: 1 19/32"

Materials: Solid bookmatched handcarved fine grain spruce top; figured maple back and sides with Florentine cutaway; solid tiger flame maple neck with walnut centerstripes; solid ebony fingerboard with block mother of pearl inlays; abalone torch and headstock logo; 5-ply body and neck binding; bound f-holes; solid bone nut.

Hardware: Original hardware includes twin Gibson Pat. # humbucking pickups, engraved art-deco gold tailpiece; gold Kluson Sealfast tuners, compensated adjustable rosewood bridge; three-way pickup selector switch; adjustable truss rod; Gibson gold reflector cap volume and tone controls, original pots, caps, and shielding cans. Vintage style bound black pickguard and gold pickup covers.

Notes: The electric version of the L-5C, the L-5CES was introduced in 1951, and has been Gibson's top-line 17" electric guitar ever since. A favorite of pro players from George Barnes to Herb Ellis and Wes Montgomery, the L-5CES is built with a solid carved spruce soundboard, all gold hardware, deluxe multi-ply binding, and twin humbucking pickups since 1957.

One of just 102 examples from its model year, this guitar is built with the extended Florentine cutaway, which improves access to the upper fingerboard by several frets. These sharp cutaway models were produced only from 1960 until mid-'69, and in the intervening years have become some of the most sought-after versions of the model ever made.

This instrument has been maintained in great shape, with original gold hardware and electronics, including Pat. sticker humbucking pickups, engraved deco tailpiece and the coveted Kluson Sealfast tuners, now long out of production. The guitar shows no cracks or repairs, and only a few random lacquer dings in the handsome three tone sunburst finish. Binding is all original and tight to the body, and the original electronics remain sealed in their factory shielding cans. A fine black multi-ply pickguard is installed as well, along with a newer set of gold pickup covers. An additional rosewood bridge base is installed, with the original included in the case. The neck profile is a sleek gentle D, with smooth low action over original medium-jumbo fretwork, and a fresh high-precision setup.

The voice is as warm as its looks, with the classic bop tone that defined jazz guitar on the incomparable recordings of the 1960's. Rare, attractive and highly playable, this eyecatching instrument is a compelling prize for the player and collector alike. Direct from the Summer of Love, one only: call now.

Setup: This instrument is strung with medium gauge nickel strings (.012-.052). The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 4/64" to 5/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

Case: Original black arched Gibson Faultless plush lined hardshell case.

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