1960 Gibson Les Paul - Sunburst

Serial Number 08081

The declining sales of the Goldtop had prompted Gibson to try the more traditional sunburst finish for the Les Paul, showing off the carved (sometimes figured) maple top. The 1958 Gibson Gazette announced the change: “A beautiful red cherry sunburst finish is the news here! This guitar now has a rich, rubbed appearance that cannot be equaled at any price, and the ‘new look’ that is tops with today’s guitarists.” The red in the sunburst was prone to fading with exposure to light, and it wasn’t until well into 1960 that the problem was corrected.

Les Paul Standard 08081 has the typical late 1960 features including: a slimmer flatter neck profile than in previous years, a bright un-faded cherry sunburst (seen starting in the 07000s), reflector knobs, and double ring Kluson tuners. Both of the PAF pickups have “zebra” plastic bobbins. It came with its original Lifton “Cali Girl” case.