The 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard holds a unique place in guitar history as the inaugural year of the legendary "Burst" finish—the moment when Gibson first revealed the stunning flame maple tops that had been hidden beneath Gold Top paint since the model's 1952 introduction. This revolutionary decision created what would become the most coveted electric guitar finish in history and established the visual and tonal template that defines vintage Les Paul collecting today.

As the first year of sunburst production, 1958 Les Paul Standards represent both historical significance and exceptional investment potential. With current market values ranging from $200,000 to over $600,000, these instruments offer collectors the opportunity to own the very first examples of what many consider the most beautiful electric guitars ever made. The 1958 models possess unique characteristics that distinguish them from later years, making them highly sought after by both collectors and players who appreciate their pioneering place in guitar evolution.

The transformation from Gold Top to sunburst wasn't merely cosmetic—it revealed Gibson's careful selection of premium flame maple tops and demonstrated the company's confidence in their materials and craftsmanship. Today, owning a 1958 Les Paul Standard means possessing a piece of the moment when Gibson created the visual icon that would influence guitar design for generations to come.

Historical Context: The Dawn of the Burst Era

The year 1958 marked a watershed moment in Gibson's corporate history and guitar design philosophy. After six years of producing Les Paul Standards with opaque Gold Top finishes, Gibson made the bold decision to showcase the beautiful flame maple tops that had been carefully selected but hidden from view. This decision came during a period of innovation at Gibson, coinciding with the introduction of the ES-335 semi-hollowbody and the radical Explorer and Flying V designs.

The transition to sunburst finish wasn't immediate or uniform. Early 1958 production continued with Gold Top finishes before gradually shifting to the new Cherry Sunburst during the middle of the year. This transitional period creates fascinating collecting opportunities, as some 1958 examples exist with both finishes, and the exact changeover point varies by production batch.

During 1958, Gibson's Kalamazoo factory employed master craftsmen who had perfected their techniques over decades of guitar making. The PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucking pickups, introduced in 1957, had reached their initial maturity by 1958, though they would continue evolving through 1962. The combination of premium materials, skilled craftsmanship, and innovative electronics created instruments that would define electric guitar tone for generations.

The flame maple tops revealed in 1958 had been carefully selected from premium timber stocks. Gibson's wood buyers sought highly figured maple with dramatic flame patterns, knowing that exceptional tops would justify the Les Paul Standard's premium pricing. The decision to showcase these tops with transparent finishes demonstrated remarkable confidence in their material selection and finishing capabilities.

Notable early adopters of the 1958 Les Paul Standard included session musicians and progressive players who appreciated the instrument's sustain, warmth, and visual appeal. While the model wouldn't achieve widespread recognition until British blues guitarists discovered them in the mid-1960s, forward-thinking musicians immediately recognized their exceptional qualities.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

The market for 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standards has experienced remarkable growth, driven by their historical significance as the first "Burst" year and their relative rarity compared to later production. As collectors increasingly appreciate the importance of "first year" examples, values have accelerated significantly over the past decade.

Key Value Factors:

• Flame intensity: Dramatic flame patterns command substantial premiums, with "bookmatched" tops being most valuable

• Finish transition timing: Early sunburst examples from mid-1958 are particularly sought after

• Color preservation: Unfaded examples with original cherry red pigments intact are worth 20-35% more

• Originality: All-original examples command 40-60% premiums over modified instruments

• Neck profile: The substantial 1958 neck profile is preferred by many collectors

• Historical significance: Being the "first year" of burst production adds collector premium

Investment Perspective: The "first year" status of 1958 Les Paul Standards provides additional collecting appeal beyond their intrinsic musical value. Historical precedent suggests that inaugural examples of significant designs often outperform later years in long-term appreciation.

Important Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in high-end vintage Gibson instruments and consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops. Our expertise in 1958 Les Paul authentication and current market knowledge ensures you receive true market value for your instrument.

Detailed Identification Guide

Authenticating a 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard requires understanding the transitional characteristics that make this year unique in Les Paul production. The changeover from Gold Top to sunburst production creates specific identification challenges and opportunities.

Serial Numbers

1958 Les Paul Standards feature 5-digit serial numbers typically ranging from 80000-90000, stamped into the back of the headstock. However, Gibson's serial number application wasn't perfectly chronological, so numbers alone cannot definitively establish authenticity or exact production timing.

Serial Number Considerations:

• Early 1958 examples may have serial numbers overlapping with late 1957 production

• Mid-year transition guitars may have numbers that don't correlate precisely with finish changeover

• Some instruments show evidence of serial number restamping or modification

• Cross-reference with other dating methods for accurate authentication

Neck Date Stamps

The neck date stamp remains the most reliable method for dating 1958 Les Pauls. Authentic examples display handwritten dates on the neck heel in various formats:

Common 1958 Date Formats:

• "MM-YY" format: "3-58," "7-58," "11-58"

• Some examples show abbreviated formats or partial dates

• Pencil markings should show appropriate aging characteristics

• Date stamps typically precede final assembly by several weeks

Critical Authentication Points:

• Genuine neck dates show natural pencil aging and slight fade

• Forged dates often appear too fresh or use inappropriate writing instruments

• Date placement and handwriting style should match period examples

• Cross-reference with pot codes and other internal dating evidence

Potentiometer Codes

1958 Les Pauls used Centralab potentiometers with specific coding that helps establish production timing:

Pot Code Format:

• 134: Centralab manufacturer code

• 5701-5852: Date codes spanning 1957-1958 production

• Example: "134 5820" = Centralab, 20th week of 1958

Important Notes:

• Pot dates typically precede guitar assembly by 2-6 months

• Early 1958 guitars may have late 1957 pot codes

• Consistent pot dates across all four pots indicate originality

• Replaced pots immediately affect authenticity and value

Finish Transition Characteristics

The 1958 finish transition creates unique identification opportunities:

Gold Top Period (Early 1958):

• Traditional opaque gold finish over maple top

• Standard Gold Top hardware and appointments

• Transition timing varies by production batch

Sunburst Transition (Mid-1958):

• Initial sunburst applications may show experimental characteristics

• Color formula still being refined during early production

• Some examples show transitional finishing techniques

Full Sunburst Production (Late 1958):

• Standardized cherry sunburst formula

• Consistent application techniques

• Enhanced flame visibility as finishing improved

Hardware Authentication

Original 1958 hardware includes specific characteristics:

Pickup Components:

• PAF humbuckers with "Patent Applied For" stickers (when present)

• Nickel-plated covers with appropriate aging patina

• Black plastic bobbins with period-correct construction

• Hand-wound coils with typical resistance readings of 7.0-8.5k ohms

Bridge and Tailpiece:

• ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge with retainer wire

• Aluminum stop-bar tailpiece with specific knurling pattern

• Original plating shows appropriate wear and aging

• Mounting hardware matches period specifications

Tuning Machines:

• Single-line Kluson Deluxe tuners

• Single-ring tulip-style buttons

• Appropriate gear ratios and construction

• Mounting bushings and screws match period specifications

Wood and Construction Details

1958 Les Pauls feature exceptional material selection:

Body Woods:

• Honduran mahogany body with distinctive grain characteristics

• Flame maple top typically 1/2" to 5/8" thick

• Bookmatched tops show mirror-image flame patterns

• Wood selection represents peak of Gibson's material quality

Neck Construction:

• One-piece mahogany neck with appropriate grain direction

• Brazilian rosewood fretboard with tight, even grain

• Traditional hide glue construction throughout

• Appropriate tool marks and construction evidence

Detailed Physical Specifications

Understanding the precise specifications of 1958 Les Paul Standards helps distinguish authentic examples from later reissues and establishes their unique characteristics within the "Burst" era:

Weight and Dimensions

• Weight range: 8.5-9.5 pounds (most examples fall between 8.8-9.3 pounds)

• Body length: 17" overall length

• Body width: 13" at widest point

• Body thickness: 1.75" (body only, excluding carved top arch)

• Scale length: 24.75" (Gibson standard scale)

Neck Specifications

The 1958 neck profile represents Gibson's substantial "baseball bat" era:

• Profile: Full, rounded profile often called "chunky" or "baseball bat"

• Nut width: 1-11/16" (1.6875")

• Neck thickness:

  • 1st fret: Approximately 0.87"

  • 12th fret: Approximately 0.95"

• Fretboard radius: 12" radius (flatter than earlier Gibson models)

• Fret wire: Vintage-style narrow/low fretwire throughout 1958 production

• Neck angle: Approximately 4-degree angle for optimal bridge height

Pickup Specifications

The PAF humbuckers in 1958 Les Pauls represent early production with specific characteristics:

Electrical Specifications:

• Resistance range: 7.0-8.5k ohms (neck pickup often slightly lower)

• Magnet types: Alnico II, Alnico IV, or Alnico V (Gibson experimented with different types)

• Wire type: 42 AWG plain enamel wire

• Coil construction: Hand-wound with slight variations in turn count

• Output level: Medium-output by modern standards, perfect for tube amplifiers

Physical Construction:

• Bobbins: Black plastic with varying degrees of translucency

• Covers: Nickel-plated with cream/white plastic mounting rings

• Slugs and screws: Appropriate metal composition and threading

• Baseplate: Nickel-silver baseplates with correct stamping and hole patterns

Electronics Configuration

• Wiring: Cloth-covered wire throughout the harness

• Capacitors: "Bumblebee" style .022 microfarad capacitors

• Resistors: Carbon composition resistors

• Switch: 3-way toggle switch (CRL or Switchcraft)

• Output jack: Cup-style jack mounted on guitar's side

• Grounding: Appropriate grounding scheme for hum reduction

Case and Accessories

Original 1958 Les Paul Standards came with specific accessories:

• Case: Brown hardshell case with pink plush lining

• Case hardware: Appropriate latches, hinges, and handle

• Documentation: Warranty cards and literature (rarely surviving)

• Accessories: Possible inclusion of period-appropriate picks or literature

Tonal Characteristics: The Foundation of Electric Guitar Sound

The 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard established the tonal template that would influence electric guitar design for decades. As the first year of "Burst" production, these instruments introduced the world to the sonic capabilities that would make Les Pauls legendary among musicians and collectors.

The Early PAF Sound

The PAF humbuckers installed in 1958 Les Pauls represent the early development of this groundbreaking pickup design:

Tonal Characteristics:

• Warmth and clarity: Perfect balance between smooth warmth and articulate clarity

• Dynamic response: Exceptional touch sensitivity allowing for expressive playing

• Harmonic complexity: Rich overtone content creates musical depth

• Sustain character: Long, singing sustain with natural compression

• Frequency balance: Even response across the entire frequency spectrum

Construction Impact on Tone:

• Unpotted coils: Allow for micro-vibrations that create harmonic complexity

• Hand-wound construction: Slight irregularities in winding contribute to tonal character

• Alnico magnets: Provide the ideal balance of output and frequency response

• Cover resonance: Nickel covers contribute subtle high-frequency rolloff

Wood Combination Effects

The mahogany body with flame maple top creates the fundamental Les Paul tonal signature:

Mahogany Body Contribution:

• Midrange warmth: Provides the fundamental warmth and body resonance

• Low-frequency response: Solid, punchy bass response without muddiness

• Sustain characteristics: Dense mahogany promotes long, even sustain

• Harmonic content: Mahogany emphasizes even-order harmonics for musical warmth

Flame Maple Top Influence:

• High-frequency clarity: Adds sparkle and note definition

• Attack characteristics: Provides clear note attack and picking articulation

• Sustain enhancement: Contributes to overall sustain and note bloom

• Resonance coupling: Creates complex interaction between wood types

Neck and Fretboard Contribution

The Brazilian rosewood fretboard and substantial mahogany neck significantly impact tone:

Brazilian Rosewood Benefits:

• Tonal density: Denser than later Indian rosewood varieties

• Harmonic enhancement: Contributes to sustain and harmonic complexity

• Feel and response: Smoother feel enhances playing expression

• Aging improvements: Decades of aging have enhanced resonance

Neck Profile Impact:

• Mass and sustain: Substantial neck mass promotes sustain transfer

• Resonance coupling: Large neck-to-body joint enhances vibration transfer

• Stability: Robust construction maintains tuning stability and intonation

The "1958 Sound" Profile

Musicians and tone enthusiasts describe the distinctive 1958 characteristics:

Clean Tones:

• Bell-like clarity: Clean tones exhibit exceptional note definition

• Harmonic richness: Complex overtones create three-dimensional sound

• Dynamic range: Wide range from gentle to aggressive picking response

• Chord clarity: Individual notes remain distinct in complex chords

Overdriven Characteristics:

• Natural compression: Smooth transition from clean to overdrive

• Harmonic saturation: Rich, musical distortion characteristics

• Sustain quality: Singing sustain without harshness or unwanted feedback

• Note separation: Individual notes remain clear even with heavy overdrive

Amplifier Interaction:

• Tube amp synergy: Designed during the tube amplifier era for perfect compatibility

• Volume response: Tonal character changes beautifully with volume adjustments

• EQ responsiveness: Responds well to amplifier tone controls

• Recording characteristics: Natural compression makes them ideal for recording

Historical recordings featuring early Les Paul Standards include work by session musicians of the late 1950s and early 1960s, though the model's greatest fame would come when British musicians discovered these "used" American guitars in London shops during the mid-1960s.

Common Issues & Modifications

Understanding the typical problems and modifications found in 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standards is crucial for accurate evaluation and authentication. After 67 years, these instruments may show various age-related issues while maintaining their essential character and value.

Age-Related Structural Issues

Neck and Headstock Problems:

• Headstock breaks: The Gibson headstock angle creates stress points susceptible to breaks

• Neck joint loosening: Hide glue joints may require attention after decades

• Truss rod functionality: Single-action truss rods may need adjustment or replacement

• Fret wear: Original narrow fretwire shows wear from decades of playing

• Nut wear and replacement: Bone nuts may show significant wear or previous replacement

Body and Finish Issues:

• Lacquer checking: Natural nitrocellulose checking is expected and often desirable

• Color fading: Cherry red pigments fade naturally, creating "tobacco burst" appearance

• Binding issues: Original binding may show shrinkage, cracking, or age-related deterioration

• Hardware corrosion: Chrome and nickel plating may show appropriate patina and wear

• Wood movement: Seasonal wood movement may create minor finish cracks

Common Modifications and Their Impact

Electronics Modifications:

• Pickup replacements: Modern pickup installations significantly reduce value (30-50% reduction)

• Wiring harness updates: Replacement capacitors and resistors affect originality

• Potentiometer replacements: Non-original pots indicate previous electronics work

• Switch modifications: 4-way switch conversions were popular modifications

• Output jack relocations: Some guitars show jack moved to different positions

Hardware Changes:

• Tuner replacements: Grover or other modern tuners commonly added (reduces value 10-20%)

• Bridge and tailpiece swaps: Aftermarket hardware affects authenticity and value

• Strap lock installations: Modern strap locks create permanent case modifications

• Switch tip replacements: Often replaced due to breakage (easily correctable)

Structural Modifications:

• Case routing: Amateur pickup or electronics modifications

• Neck pocket alterations: Modifications to improve neck fit or angle

• Bridge post relocations: Rare but significantly affects value when present

• Binding replacements: New binding installation affects originality

Refinishing and Restoration Concerns

Refinishing Red Flags:

• Overspray evidence: Paint in cavities, neck pockets, or control areas

• Unnatural aging patterns: Refinished instruments show inconsistent wear

• Hardware masking: Evidence of parts removal during refinishing

• Color inconsistencies: Non-original colors or inappropriate color combinations

• Artificial aging: Modern techniques attempting to simulate natural wear

Professional Conservation:

• Appropriate cleaning: Professional cleaning maintains original finish

• Crack repair: Properly executed finish crack repairs may be acceptable

• Hardware restoration: Professional hardware restoration can maintain value

• Binding replacement: When necessary, proper binding work preserves integrity

Authentication Challenges

Given the high value, sophisticated reproductions and fraudulent practices require expert evaluation:

High-End Reproductions:

• Aged reproductions: Modern builders create convincing aged reproductions

• Period-correct materials: Some reproductions use authentic vintage components

• Aging techniques: Advanced artificial aging can simulate decades of wear

• Documentation fraud: Fake documentation may accompany reproduction instruments

Parts Swapping and "Franken-Pauls":

• Body/neck combinations: Authentic parts from different guitars combined

• Component mixing: Original bodies with reproduction necks or hardware

• Serial number manipulation: Authentic serial number plates moved to reproduction instruments

• Pickup swapping: Original PAFs moved between instruments

Expert Authentication Requirements: Due to the financial stakes and sophistication of reproductions, professional authentication by recognized vintage Gibson experts is essential. Key authentication points include:

• Wood grain analysis: Comparing grain patterns to known period examples

• Construction techniques: Understanding period-correct building methods

• Aging characteristics: Recognizing authentic vs. artificial aging patterns

• Component verification: Confirming authenticity of all major components

Valuation Impact of Modifications

Understanding how various modifications affect value helps in making informed decisions:

Major Value Reducers (30-50% reduction):

• Refinishing or major finish work

• Pickup replacements with modern units

• Neck repairs or replacements

• Significant routing modifications

Moderate Value Impact (10-25% reduction):

• Hardware replacements (tuners, bridge, tailpiece)

• Electronics modifications (pots, capacitors, wiring)

• Non-original cases or missing accessories

• Professional restoration with documentation

Minor Value Impact (0-10% reduction):

• Professional setup and maintenance

• Appropriate fret replacement when necessary

• Switch tip or minor hardware replacement

• Professional cleaning and minor finish touch-up

Why Players and Collectors Value This Model

The 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard occupies a unique position as both a historically significant instrument and an exceptional playing guitar. Its status as the inaugural "Burst" year creates special appeal for collectors, while its tonal characteristics continue to inspire professional musicians worldwide.

Historical Significance

First Year Appeal:

• Pioneering status: The first year of the legendary sunburst finish

• Design milestone: Represents Gibson's decision to showcase premium maple tops

• Cultural importance: Established the visual template for electric guitar beauty

• Transitional characteristics: Unique features bridging Gold Top and later Burst eras

• Manufacturing peak: Represents Gibson's craftsmanship at its finest

Collecting Perspective:

• Rarity factor: Lower production numbers compared to peak 1959-1960 years

• Condition rarity: Fewer pristine examples survive compared to later years

• Documentation value: Well-documented examples command premium prices

• Investment potential: "First year" status provides long-term collecting appeal

Musical and Tonal Appeal

Professional Musician Preferences:

• Vintage authenticity: Represents the original Les Paul Standard vision

• Tonal character: Distinctive voice that influenced rock and blues development

• Recording qualities: Exceptional characteristics in studio environments

• Stage presence: Visual impact matches tonal excellence

• Reliability: Proven performance over decades of professional use

Sound Characteristics:

• PAF pickup evolution: Early PAF development provides unique tonal signature

• Wood maturation: 67 years of aging has enhanced resonance and response

• Construction quality: Superior craftsmanship affects sustain and tone

• Harmonic complexity: Rich overtone content unavailable in modern instruments

Investment and Collecting Considerations

Market Performance:

• Appreciation history: Consistent value growth over multiple decades

• Market stability: Strong performance during economic uncertainties

• Liquidity advantages: Ready market among serious collectors

• International demand: Global collector base provides market depth

Portfolio Diversification:

• Alternative asset class: Tangible assets with intrinsic value

• Inflation hedge: Physical assets often outperform during inflationary periods

• Cultural value: Significance extends beyond financial considerations

• Enjoyment factor: Can be played and appreciated while appreciating

Future Market Outlook:

• Increasing rarity: Attrition through damage, modification, or loss

• Growing awareness: Expanding collector base recognizes 1958 significance

• Baby Boomer wealth transfer: Generational wealth transfer affecting market dynamics

• International expansion: Growing international collector markets

Playability and Performance

Ergonomic Characteristics:

• Neck profile: Substantial 1958 neck appeals to players preferring fuller profiles

• Weight distribution: Excellent balance for both sitting and standing play

• Fret access: Traditional Les Paul ergonomics with period-correct feel

• String tension: 24.75" scale provides ideal tension for bending and vibrato

Tonal Versatility:

• Genre adaptability: Equally effective in blues, rock, jazz, and country applications

• Amplifier compatibility: Designed for tube amplifiers of the era

• Recording characteristics: Natural compression and frequency response

• Dynamic range: Responds beautifully to playing dynamics and technique

Selling Your 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard

If you own a 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard, you possess an instrument of extraordinary historical significance and financial value. As the inaugural year of the legendary "Burst" finish, your guitar represents a pivotal moment in electric guitar development and commands premium attention in today's collector market.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars for Your 1958 Les Paul

Specialized Expertise: At Edgewater Guitars, we understand that 1958 Les Paul Standards require specialized knowledge for proper evaluation and authentication. Our team includes recognized experts in vintage Gibson guitars who understand the subtle transitional characteristics that make 1958 examples unique.

Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium vintage instruments. Our deep understanding of the 1958 Les Paul market, including the historical significance and current collector demand, ensures you receive true market value reflecting current conditions rather than outdated price guide figures.

First Year Recognition: Unlike general vintage guitar dealers, we specifically recognize the premium value that "first year" examples command in the collector market. The pioneering status of 1958 Les Paul Standards as the inaugural sunburst year adds significant value that general dealers often overlook.

Our Comprehensive Evaluation Process

Initial Assessment: We begin with detailed photography and documentation of your instrument, examining the specific characteristics that identify authentic 1958 examples. This includes verification of the sunburst finish transition timing, neck date stamps, potentiometer codes, and hardware specifications.

Authentication Verification: Our authentication process includes:

• Serial number analysis: Cross-referencing with known 1958 production data

• Neck dating verification: Confirming authentic pencil markings and aging characteristics

• Hardware authentication: Verifying period-correct components and specifications

• Finish analysis: Evaluating sunburst finish characteristics and aging patterns

• Electronics inspection: Confirming original PAF pickups and wiring components

Market Valuation: Our valuation considers multiple factors specific to 1958 Les Paul Standards:

• Current auction results and private sale data

• Flame pattern intensity and visual appeal

• Condition assessment including finish preservation

• Originality verification and modification history

• Historical significance and documentation

Advantages of Working with Edgewater

Immediate Purchase: Unlike consignment arrangements that can take months with uncertain outcomes, we provide immediate purchase offers based on current market conditions. You'll know exactly what your instrument is worth without waiting periods or sales commissions.

Secure Handling: We understand that instruments of this value require special handling:

• Climate-controlled transportation for high-value instruments

• Professional photography and documentation

• Secure storage during evaluation periods

• Comprehensive insurance coverage throughout the process

• Discrete, confidential transactions respecting your privacy

Expert Documentation: For instruments of this caliber, proper documentation is crucial. We provide:

• Professional authentication reports when requested

• Detailed condition assessments

• Historical research when documentation exists

• Photography for your records or insurance purposes

Market Timing Considerations

The current market for 1958 Les Paul Standards shows several positive indicators:

Growing Recognition:

• Increasing collector awareness of "first year" significance

• Growing appreciation for transitional characteristics

• Strong international demand from serious collectors

• Market stability even during economic uncertainties

Supply Constraints:

• Limited original production numbers

• Attrition through modification, damage, or loss

• Increasing numbers held by long-term collectors

• Fewer examples available in the marketplace

Ready to discuss your 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard? Contact us today for a confidential consultation and expert evaluation.

Contact Edgewater Guitars:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

• Confidential Evaluation: Submit Details Online

Related Resources

Authentication and Dating Resources

• Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool: Comprehensive database for dating Gibson instruments

• How to Date a Gibson Guitar by Serial Number: Complete guide to Gibson dating methods

• Gibson PAF Pickup Authentication Guide: Detailed guide to identifying authentic PAF humbuckers

• Identifying Refinished Les Pauls: How to spot finish work and modifications

Market Information and Valuation

• Most Valuable Vintage Guitars: Investment-grade instrument guide

• Les Paul Market Analysis 2025: Current market trends and projections

• 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard Guide: Companion article about the legendary 1959 models

Selling and Appraisal Services

• How to Maximize Your Guitar's Value When Selling: Expert tips for getting the best price

• Sell Your Gibson Guitar: Specialized information about selling Gibson instruments

• Guitar Appraisal Services: Professional valuation and authentication services

The 1958 Legacy: Where It All Began

The 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard represents more than just another vintage guitar—it embodies the moment when Gibson revealed the visual beauty that had been hidden beneath Gold Top finishes since the model's inception. This revolutionary decision created the template for electric guitar aesthetics that continues to influence designs today.

As the first year of "Burst" production, 1958 Les Paul Standards offer collectors the unique opportunity to own the very beginning of a legend. These instruments bridge the gap between the original Les Paul concept and the refined examples that would follow, creating a distinctive character that appeals to both players and collectors.

The craftsmanship evident in 1958 examples represents Gibson at the peak of their traditional manufacturing methods. The hand-selected materials, careful construction techniques, and attention to detail created instruments that have only improved with age. After 67 years, these guitars offer a direct connection to an era when guitar making was truly an art form.

Serving Guitar Owners Throughout the Midwest: Edgewater Guitars proudly serves collectors and players throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. For instruments of this caliber, we provide in-person evaluations and secure transportation to ensure your transaction is handled with appropriate care and expertise.

Contact Information:

• Phone: (440) 219-3607

• Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com

• Website: edgewaterguitars.com

• Secure Evaluation Form: Get Your Professional Assessment