The Birth of a Legend: Why 1957 Was Revolutionary

The 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop represents one of the most pivotal moments in electric guitar history—the year when Gibson's revolutionary PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucking pickups transformed the sound of rock music forever. This wasn't just another model year update; it was the moment when the Les Paul solidified its identity as the powerhouse instrument that would shape generations of music to come.

What makes the 1957 Les Paul Goldtop truly revolutionary was Seth Lover's humbucking pickup design. First appearing on Gibson lap steels in 1956, these innovative pickups were introduced to the Les Paul lineup in 1957, replacing the P-90 single-coil pickups that had been standard since the model's 1952 introduction. The "Patent Applied For" stickers (originally placed on the pickup baseplates) gave these pickups their "PAF" nickname, though many early 1957 examples featured "pre-sticker" versions of these groundbreaking pickups.

The PAF humbuckers fundamentally changed the Les Paul's voice by eliminating the 60-cycle hum that plagued single-coil pickups while delivering a richer, warmer tone with improved clarity. This was achieved through Lover's ingenious design using two coils wired in opposite directions with reversed polarity magnets (U.S. Patent No. 2,896,491), creating a pickup that canceled noise while enhancing the guitar's natural sound.

For vintage guitar collectors and players, the '57 Goldtop with PAFs represents the first appearance of the "modern" Les Paul sound—the voice that would come to define blues, rock, and hard rock for decades to follow. The perfect convergence of the elegant gold finish, warm mahogany body with maple cap, Tune-o-matic bridge, and those revolutionary humbuckers created an instrument that stands as one of the most significant developments in electric guitar history.

Historical Context: Gibson in 1957 - The Evolution of the Les Paul

In 1957, Gibson was at a fascinating crossroads. The solid-body electric guitar market was still relatively young, with Gibson and Fender in an intense battle for dominance. While Fender had launched the Stratocaster in 1954, Gibson was taking a different approach with the more traditional, craftsmanship-focused Les Paul.

By 1957, Gibson was entering its sixth year of Les Paul production. The model had started in 1952 with a trapeze tailpiece (wrapping over the top of the guitar) and P-90 pickups, evolved to a wrap-around bridge/tailpiece in 1953, and then to the Tune-o-matic bridge and stop tailpiece in 1955. Each evolution brought the instrument closer to perfection, but something was still missing.

The most significant development was happening behind the scenes at Gibson. Electronics engineer Seth Lover had been working on a pickup design that would eliminate the 60-cycle hum plaguing single-coil pickups while maintaining clarity and adding power. After first appearing on Gibson lap steel guitars in 1956, this new "humbucking" design would debut on the 1957 Les Paul models, fundamentally changing the instrument and electric guitar sound forever.

This transition wasn't immediate—early 1957 Les Pauls still featured P-90 pickups, with the PAF humbuckers appearing partway through the year. Serial number evidence suggests this transition began around the 7-2000 range, with documented examples including serial numbers 7-2371 and 7-2540 featuring early PAFs. By the later serial ranges (7-3000 and above, like Duane Allman's famous 7-3312), most Goldtops had transitioned to humbuckers. By the end of 1957, all new Les Paul Standards featured humbuckers exclusively, with P-90s no longer offered on this model.

The 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAFs is not only historically significant but also relatively rare, representing only a fraction of that year's approximately 600 total Goldtop production. This limited availability contributes significantly to their collector value today.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

The 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAF humbuckers represents one of the most collectible electric guitars on the vintage market. These instruments are widely recognized as "the most valuable of the 'Goldtop era'" (1952-1957), commanding premium prices that continue to increase as genuine examples become increasingly rare.

Key Value Factors:

• Originality: All-original examples command the highest prices, with original PAF pickups being the most critical component

• Documentation: Original cases, paperwork, or proven provenance can add 15-20% to value

• Condition: Examples with minimal wear, checking, or fading command premium prices

• Serial Number: Early PAF transition models (Serial #7-2000 to 7-3000) often bring higher values

• Pickup Configuration: Humbucker models command nearly a six-figure premium over comparable P-90 examples

• Tailpiece Type: Models with stop-bar tailpieces typically bring 10-20% more than those with factory Bigsby vibrato tailpieces

• Neck Profile: Examples with chunkier, more desirable neck profiles typically bring higher prices

• Specific PAF Readings: PAFs with particularly desirable ohm readings may add value to collectors

The 1957 Goldtop with PAFs is now recognized as a pivotal evolutionary step toward the legendary 1958-1960 "Burst" Les Pauls. This historical significance has contributed to the steady appreciation of '57 PAF Goldtops as investment-grade instruments, with values increasing consistently over the past several decades.

At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than local shops or typical dealers for these instruments, recognizing their true historical and collectible value. For a current valuation of your 1957 Les Paul Goldtop, we offer free appraisal services with no obligation to sell.

Detailed Identification Guide

Authenticating a genuine 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop with PAFs requires careful examination of numerous details. Here's what to look for:

Serial Numbers

• Ink-stamped on the back of the headstock

• Begin with "7" indicating the 1957 production year (the prefix digit corresponds to the last digit of the year)

• Full serial ranges for 1957 Goldtops: 7-0100 through approximately 7-8000

• PAF-equipped models typically begin at serial range 7-2000 and higher

• Documented examples include 7-2371, 7-2540, and 7-3312 (Duane Allman's famous Goldtop)

• No "Made in USA" stamp (this wouldn't appear until the 1970s)

Potentiometer Codes

• Centralab pots with date codes

• First three digits (134) = manufacturer (Centralab)

• Next two digits = year (56/57)

• Final two digits = week of manufacture

• Common 1957 Les Paul pot codes: 1345649 through 1345724

• Late 1956 pots (typically 1345644 through 1345652) are commonly found in early 1957 instruments

• Documented examples show pot codes from the 49th week of 1956 in some 1957 Goldtops

Factory Markings

• Control cavity may have handwritten inspector numbers

• Neck pocket may have assembly markings

• Some have "PAF" rubber-stamped in the control cavity

• Original solder should show minimal disturbance

Wood and Construction

• Solid Honduran mahogany body with carved maple top

• One-piece mahogany neck

• Brazilian rosewood fingerboard with trapezoid inlays (replacing earlier dot inlays)

• Typically non-bookmatched, single-piece maple top

• Some late '57s feature "dark back" finish rather than natural mahogany

• Non-weight-relieved construction (weight relief wouldn't appear until much later)

• Bound fingerboard with cream binding

Hardware and Components

• Gold-plated Tune-o-matic bridge (ABR-1) and stop tailpiece

• Kluson Deluxe "double-ring" tuners with "PAT APPLD" stamping

• Original gold finish (nitrocellulose lacquer) with some examples showing subtle green tinting with age

• Black plastic pickup rings and smaller "Telecaster-style" pickguard (cream plastic on P-90 models)

• "Les Paul Model" silk-screened on headstock in gold

• Amber "bonnet" knobs

PAF Humbucker Identification

• Earliest PAFs featured raw steel (nickel) covers with visible tooling marks

• Early 1957 PAFs typically had no "Patent Applied For" stickers (these appeared later in 1957)

• Typical resistance readings: Early 1957 PAFs measured approximately 7.5kΩ (documented examples include 7.65kΩ neck, 7.35kΩ bridge)

• Black leads used for early 1957 PAFs

• Short "balanced" square-shoulder bobbins

• Alnico magnets (typically Alnico II, not ceramic)

• Unpotted coils

• Nickel covers with slight rounding on edges

• "Double line" tooling marks on pickup covers

• Clean mounting ears with visible tool marks

Detailed Physical Specifications

Dimensions and Weight

• Weight range: 8.4-9.6 lbs (typically heavier than Bursts)

• Body thickness: Approximately 2.125" - 2.25"

• Scale length: 24.75"

• Overall length: 39"

• Body width at lower bout: 13"

• Body width at upper bout: 10"

Neck Specifications

• Profile: Medium to full C-shape with slight V tendency

• Depth at 1st fret: .87" - .93"

• Depth at 12th fret: .97" - 1.02"

• Width at nut: 1 11/16"

• Width at 12th fret: 2.06"

• Fretboard radius: 12"

• Truss rod: Single-action steel

• Peghead angle: 17 degrees

• 22 frets with "jumbo" wire (.110" x .050")

Electrical Specifications

• PAF humbucking pickups (no stickers or "Patent Applied For" stickers)

• Typical resistance readings: 7.2k - 8.2k ohms

• Two volume controls (500K Centralab pots)

• Two tone controls (500K Centralab pots)

• "Bumblebee" capacitors (.022mF)

• 3-way toggle switch

• Braided shield wiring

• Gibson output jack

Finish Details

• Gold nitrocellulose lacquer top finish

• Natural mahogany back and sides (some "dark back" variants)

• Thin nitrocellulose finish with visible "sinking" over time

• Visible wood grain through gold finish

• Natural aging produces checking pattern and green tinting in gold

• Faded cherry/amber neck finish

Case

• Original brown/pink interior hardshell case

• Small rectangular "Gibson" logo

• Pink plush interior

• Accessory compartment with gold interior

• Single latch and handle

Tonal Characteristics

The 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAF pickups produces a unique tonal signature that differs noticeably from both its P-90 predecessors and later Burst models. This distinctive voice is why many players and collectors specifically seek out these instruments.

Core Sound Profile

• Rich, warm fundamental tones with excellent harmonic complexity

• Full, uncompressed sound with warm lows, clear mids, and crisp highs

• More midrange presence than P-90 models with improved clarity

• Exceptional sustain from the combination of mahogany body, maple cap, and Tune-o-matic bridge

• Slightly brighter than 1958-1960 Bursts due to differences in pickup winding and neck construction

• Exceptional dynamic response—cleans up beautifully with guitar volume reduction

• Complete elimination of the 60-cycle hum that plagued P-90-equipped models

PAF Pickup Characteristics

• Early PAFs typically feature slightly lower output than later examples

• Typical output readings: 7.2k-8.2k ohms (documented examples measure around 7.5k ohms)

• Alnico II magnets (not ceramic) providing smoother, more musical response

• Outstanding clarity and note definition even with high gain

• Natural compression that enhances sustain

• Complex harmonics with distinctive "bloom" as notes sustain

• Neck pickup: Rich, vocal midrange with excellent articulation

• Bridge pickup: Bold, authoritative tone with balanced treble response

• Non-potted coils allowing for more harmonic complexity and dynamic response

Notable Players/Recordings

These instruments influenced numerous significant recordings of the late 1950s and beyond:

• Duane Allman (his famous 1957 Goldtop PAF, serial #7-3312, used on early Allman Brothers recordings)

• Mike Bloomfield on early Paul Butterfield Blues Band recordings

• Keith Richards during early Rolling Stones sessions

• Peter Green on early Fleetwood Mac albums (particularly with his famous out-of-phase neck pickup)

• Jimmy Page (pre-Led Zeppelin)

• Warren Haynes with Gov't Mule and The Allman Brothers Band

• Bernard Butler (Suede)

• Joe Bonamassa (various recordings)

Common Issues & Modifications

When evaluating a 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAFs, be aware of these common issues and modifications:

Typical Period Modifications

• Conversion from P-90s to PAFs: Many early '57 Les Pauls with P-90s were later converted to PAF humbuckers

• Bigsby Vibrato Addition: Original stop tailpiece holes filled and Bigsby added

• Tuner Replacement: Original Kluson tuners often replaced with Grover tuners (creating telltale extra holes)

• Neck Resets: Due to Gibson's neck angle issues in early production

• Refinishing: Many have been stripped of their original gold finish and refinished in sunburst to increase value

Common Structural Issues

• Headstock Breaks: Typical of Gibson instruments due to the 17-degree headstock angle

• Neck Joint Separation: Common in vintage Les Pauls due to glue deterioration

• Bridge Sinking/Top Distortion: The maple top often sinks under string tension over decades

• Pickup Route Enlargement: When converting from P-90s to humbuckers

• Checking/Finish Cracks: Natural aging of nitrocellulose finishes

Value-Diminishing Factors

• Refinishing: Can reduce value by 30-50%

• Replaced Pickups: Original PAFs are crucial to value

• Altered Electronics: Non-original pots, caps, or wiring

• Replaced Bridges/Tailpieces: Non-original hardware

• Headstock Repairs: Even well-executed repairs reduce value by 15-30%

• Re-frets: Original frets are preferred by collectors

Authentication Red Flags

• Incorrect serial number font or placement

• Incorrect pickup routes (PAF routes should be rectangular with rounded corners)

• Mismatched pots or non-Centralab pots

• Improper gold color (too yellow vs. proper greenish-gold aging)

• Non-original binding or improper binding nibs

• Incorrect neck profile for the era

Why Players & Collectors Value This Model

The 1957 Les Paul Goldtop with PAFs holds a special place in guitar history for several compelling reasons:

Historical Significance

• First year of Gibson's revolutionary PAF humbucking pickups

• Last full year of the Goldtop finish before the transition to sunburst in 1958

• Represents the completion of Gibson's evolution of the Les Paul design

• Direct predecessor to the legendary "Burst" Les Pauls of 1958-1960

Playing Experience

• Substantial neck profile offers exceptional comfort for many players

• Slightly brighter tonal characteristics than Bursts provide enhanced clarity

• Excellent balance between weight and sustain

• Exceptional resonance from properly aged woods

• PAF pickups offer unmatched dynamic response and harmonic richness

Investment Appeal

• Consistent appreciation in value over the past several decades

• Limited supply (approximately 300-400 PAF-equipped Goldtops from 1957)

• Growing demand as more collectors enter the vintage market

• Strong historical documentation and provenance

• Crossover appeal to both players and collectors

Cultural Impact

• Helped establish the humbucker as the dominant pickup for rock music

• Defined the "Gibson sound" that would influence generations of guitarists

• Featured on countless influential recordings

• Established the premium solid-body electric guitar market

• Inspired numerous reissues and tribute models

Selling Your 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop

If you own a 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop with PAF pickups, you possess one of the most desirable vintage guitars on the collector market. When considering selling such a valuable instrument, it's essential to work with experts who understand its true value and historical significance.

Why Sell to Edgewater Guitars?

• Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local music shops or general vintage dealers

• Expert Authentication: Our team specializes in identifying genuine '57 Goldtops and their original components

• Immediate Cash Offers: No waiting for consignment sales or auction results

• Zero-Hassle Process: We handle all logistics, even for high-value instruments

• Secure Transactions: Professional, discreet service for valuable vintage instruments

• No Fees or Commissions: Unlike auction houses that charge 15-25%

Our Streamlined Process

1. Initial Consultation: Share details and photos of your instrument

2. Expert Evaluation: Our team authenticates and evaluates your guitar

3. Fair Market Offer: Receive a competitive offer based on current market values

4. Immediate Payment: Get paid on acceptance—no waiting periods

5. Simple Logistics: We arrange secure pickup or shipping

Comparison to Other Selling Options

Ready to sell your vintage Gibson? Get your free valuation today by calling (440) 219-3607 or using our online form.

Related Resources

For more information about vintage Gibson instruments, explore these helpful resources:

• Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool - Our comprehensive database for dating your Gibson

• How to Date a Gibson Les Paul - Step-by-step authentication guide

• Les Paul Goldtop Evolution: 1952-1958 - See the progression of the model

• PAF Pickup Authentication Guide - Identify genuine vintage pickups

• Gibson Potentiometer Dating Guide - Decode pot codes to verify age

• Most Valuable Gibson Guitars - See where the '57 Goldtop ranks

• 1958-1960 Les Paul "Burst" Guide - The next evolution after the Goldtop

• Les Paul Conversion Identification - Spotting modified vintage instruments

• Get Your Gibson Guitar Valued - Free professional appraisal service

• Reverb Price Guide for 1957 Les Paul Goldtops - Current market trends

Les Paul Goldtop Evolution: 1952-1957

To fully appreciate the significance of the 1957 Goldtop with PAFs, it's helpful to understand the model's evolution:

1952: Original Les Paul Goldtop introduced

• P-90 pickups

• Trapeze tailpiece wrapping over the top of the guitar

• Gold finish

• Chunky neck profile

1953: First major update

• Wrap-around combination bridge/tailpiece replaces trapeze

• P-90 pickups continue

• Gold finish continues

1954: Hardware refinements

• Tune-o-matic bridge appears on some models

• P-90 pickups continue

• Stopbar tailpiece introduced

1955: Bridge standardization

• Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece standardized

• P-90 pickups continue

• More consistent neck profiles

1956: Final P-90 year

• Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece

• P-90 pickups continue

• Final refinements before major pickup change

1957: The Revolutionary Year

• PAF humbucking pickups introduced (replacing P-90s)

• Final full year of gold finish before 1958 sunburst transition

• Perfected combination of features that would define the model

• Transitional period with both P-90 and PAF models produced

The Gold Standard in Vintage Gibson Evaluation

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage Gibson guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. Our team has decades of experience authenticating and valuing PAF-era instruments, with particular expertise in 1957-1960 Les Pauls.

We travel to you for high-value instruments like 1957 Les Paul Goldtops, providing secure, professional service with no obligation. Don't settle for lowball offers from dealers who don't recognize the true value of these historic instruments.

Contact us today for your free, no-obligation valuation at (440) 219-3607 or visit our website to learn more about our premium buying service.

This guide was prepared by the vintage guitar experts at Edgewater Guitars, specialists in Gibson Les Paul identification, authentication, and valuation with over 25 years of experience in the vintage guitar market.