1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom: The Black Beauty's Golden Year

Why the 1959 Les Paul Custom Matters

The 1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom represents the absolute pinnacle of Gibson's "Black Beauty" era—a sophisticated instrument crafted during what collectors universally consider the golden age of American guitar manufacturing. These instruments were built during the final years before the CBS acquisition of Fender created market turbulence, and before Gibson's own quality control challenges began in the 1960s.

What makes the 1959 Les Paul Custom historically significant goes far beyond its striking ebony finish and elegant appointments. This was the year when Gibson achieved perfect harmony between traditional craftsmanship and innovative pickup technology, creating an instrument that would define professional guitar tone for decades to come.

What makes 1959 special:

• The culmination of seven years of Les Paul refinement since the model's 1952 introduction

• First full year of PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker production with consistent quality

• Premium old-growth woods still available from Gibson's established suppliers

• Hand-wound pickups with incredible tonal characteristics and perfect wind consistency

• The classic split-diamond headstock inlay in its most refined form

• Peak era of American manufacturing excellence and attention to detail

• Built before the model's discontinuation in 1961, making these among the final original Les Paul Customs

Historical Context: Gibson in 1959

By 1959, Gibson had firmly established itself as America's premier guitar manufacturer. Under the leadership of company president Ted McCarty, Gibson was experiencing unprecedented innovation and quality control. The company had just perfected Seth Lover's groundbreaking PAF humbucker design, which had been introduced in 1957 and refined throughout 1958.

The 1959 production year marked several critical developments at Gibson. The company's Kalamazoo, Michigan factory was operating at peak efficiency, with skilled craftsmen who had decades of experience working with premium tonewoods. The PAF humbuckers had overcome their early production inconsistencies, and Gibson's winding techniques had been standardized to produce the legendary tone that would make these pickups the most coveted in guitar history.

This was also the year when Gibson's finish technology reached its zenith. The nitrocellulose lacquer used in 1959 was applied in thinner coats than later production, allowing the wood to resonate more freely while providing excellent protection. The ebony finish on the Les Paul Custom was particularly refined, with a deep, lustrous black that has aged beautifully over the decades.

Notable artists using Les Paul Customs during this period included:

• Freddy King, who popularized the Les Paul Custom in blues circles

• Roy Buchanan, whose ethereal tone helped establish the Custom's reputation

• Early rock and roll pioneers who appreciated the instrument's professional appointments

• Jazz guitarists who valued the warm, sophisticated tone of the PAF humbuckers

The 1959 Les Paul Custom represented Gibson's answer to players who demanded both visual elegance and professional performance. While the Standard model got most of the attention for its flame maple tops, the Custom appealed to players who preferred understated elegance and the unique tonal characteristics that came from the all-mahogany construction.

Detailed Identification Guide for 1959 Les Paul Customs

Authenticating a 1959 Les Paul Custom requires careful examination of multiple identifying features. Gibson's production methods during this period were consistent enough to establish clear authentication criteria.

Serial Numbers and Dating

1959 Les Paul Customs typically have 5-digit serial numbers starting with "9" to indicate the year, ranging from approximately 90100 to 95000. The serial number is ink-stamped on the back of the headstock in either black or gold ink. Look for:

• Format: 9 XXXX (with space between the year digit and production number)

• Location: Back of headstock, centered below the tuner bushings

• Ink Color: Usually gold on the Custom models, occasionally black

• Production Range: Approximately 3,000-4,000 Les Paul Customs were produced in 1959

Neck Date Verification

The most reliable identifier is the pencil-written neck date on the heel of the neck, visible when the neck is removed from the body. 1959 necks typically show markings like "3-59" through "12-59" indicating month and year of completion.

Potentiometer Codes

1959 Les Paul Customs used specific potentiometer manufacturers with datable codes:

• Centralab Pots: Most common, with codes reading 1388 (Centralab) followed by date code

• Date Format: YYWW (year and week), so "5920" = 20th week of 1959

• Resistance: 500K ohms for volume pots, 500K for tone pots

• Mounting: Short shaft pots with push-on knobs

Hardware Specifications

Tuners: Single-line Kluson Deluxe tuners with:

• Single-line "Kluson Deluxe" stamp

• 15:1 gear ratio

• Keystone-shaped buttons

• Nickel-plated finish on Custom models

Bridge and Tailpiece:

• ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge with nickel plating

• Separate stop tailpiece (not wraparound)

• "Patent Applied For" stamp on bridge saddles

• Thumbwheel height adjustment

Electronics:

• PAF humbucker pickups with "Patent Applied For" stickers

• Typical resistance readings: 7.5K-8.5K ohms

• Three-way toggle switch (Switchcraft)

• Vintage cloth-covered wiring throughout

Physical Identification Features

Headstock Details:

• Split diamond mother-of-pearl inlay (no "Custom" lettering)

• "Gibson" pearl script logo

• Bound headstock edges

• Serial number ink stamp on back

Neck Construction:

• One-piece mahogany neck with long tenon

• Bound ebony fingerboard

• Rectangular mother-of-pearl block inlays

• Single-layer white binding with black outer line

Body Features:

• Solid mahogany body (no maple cap)

• Multi-layer body binding: white-black-white

• Black nitrocellulose finish throughout

• Cream-colored pickup rings and switch ring

Common Reproduction Warning Signs

Reproduction Indicators to Watch For:

• Serial numbers that don't match production records

• Modern potentiometer codes (post-1965 format)

• Reproduction PAF stickers (usually too white/bright)

• Incorrect binding patterns or colors

• Modern tuner stamps or gear ratios

• Pickup cavities that show routing tool marks (originals were hand-routed)

Detailed Physical Specifications

Understanding the precise specifications of the 1959 Les Paul Custom helps both in authentication and appreciation of these remarkable instruments.

Weight and Dimensions

• Typical Weight: 9.0-10.5 pounds (mahogany body construction typically heavier than maple-capped Standards)

• Body Length: 17 inches

• Body Width: 13 inches at lower bout

• Body Depth: 1.75 inches (not including arch)

Neck Specifications

• Neck Profile: Medium "C" shape (the famous "59 profile")

• Nut Width: 1-11/16 inches (1.6875")

• Neck Thickness: .87" at 1st fret, .97" at 12th fret

• Scale Length: 24.75 inches (24¾")

• Fretboard Radius: 12 inches

• Fret Wire: Small-medium fretwire, approximately .080" wide

• Number of Frets: 22 (until mid-1959, then 22 jumbo frets were introduced)

Wood Specifications

Body Wood:

• Primary: Solid mahogany body construction

• Origin: Primarily Honduran mahogany

• Weight Relief: None (solid construction throughout)

• Grain: Straight-grain mahogany selected for tonal qualities

Neck Wood:

• Material: One-piece mahogany neck

• Construction: Long neck tenon extending deep into body

• Heel: Volute-free design (volutes didn't appear until 1969)

Fretboard:

• Material: Ebony fingerboard

• Inlays: Rectangular mother-of-pearl blocks

• Binding: Single-layer white binding with thin black outer line

Pickup and Electronics Specifications

PAF Humbuckers:

• Magnets: Alnico II or III (varied throughout 1959)

• Wire: 42 AWG plain enamel wire (purple-colored enamel)

• Bobbin: White (cream) butyrate plastic bobbins

• Covers: Nickel-plated metal covers

• Output: Typically 7.5K-8.5K ohms resistance

• Winding: Hand-wound, approximately 5,000 turns per coil

Control Layout:

• Configuration: 2 volume, 2 tone, 3-way toggle switch

• Pots: 500K ohm Centralab potentiometers

• Capacitors: "Bumblebee" paper-in-oil .022 μF capacitors

• Wiring: Vintage cloth-covered wire throughout

• Jack: Switchcraft 1/4" mono jack

Hardware Details

Tuning Machines:

• Brand: Kluson Deluxe single-line

• Ratio: 15:1 gear ratio

• Buttons: Keystone-shaped white plastic

• Finish: Nickel-plated

Bridge System:

• Type: ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge with separate stop tailpiece

• Material: Nickel-plated brass

• Adjustment: Individual string height via thumbwheels

• Intonation: Individual saddle adjustment screws

Case:

• Standard Case: Brown Lifton hardshell case

• Interior: Pink plush lining

• Hardware: Brass-plated latches and hinges

• Logo: Gibson logo embossed in gold

Tonal Characteristics of the 1959 Les Paul Custom

The 1959 Les Paul Custom possesses a distinctive voice that differs significantly from its Standard counterpart, primarily due to its all-mahogany construction and refined PAF humbuckers.

Sonic Profile

The all-mahogany body construction of the Custom creates a fundamentally different tonal foundation than the maple-capped Standard. Where Standards are known for their bright attack and complex overtones, the Custom offers:

Low End Response: Deep, woody bass with excellent note definition. The solid mahogany construction provides substantial low-frequency content without muddiness.

Midrange Character: Rich, warm midrange that's particularly vocal in quality. The combination of mahogany and PAF humbuckers creates what many describe as a "singing" quality in the middle frequencies.

High-End Detail: Smooth, refined treble response that cuts through a mix without harshness. The ebony fingerboard contributes to the articulate high-frequency response.

PAF Humbucker Contribution

The 1959 PAF humbuckers were hand-wound and not wax potted, making them sensitive to touch and resulting in vibrations and harmonics that create a slightly more open and uncompressed sound. The specific characteristics of 1959 PAFs include:

• Dynamic Response: Exceptional touch sensitivity, responding dramatically to pick attack variations

• Harmonic Complexity: Rich overtone structure due to unpotted coils

• Clean-Up Capability: Outstanding response to guitar volume control adjustments

• Overdrive Character: Smooth, musical compression when pushed into distortion

Comparison to Other Models

Versus 1959 Les Paul Standard: The Custom's all-mahogany construction provides deeper bass response and a warmer midrange, while the Standard's maple cap adds brightness and complexity. The Custom is often preferred for blues and rock applications where warmth and sustain are prioritized.

Versus Earlier Les Paul Customs: 1959 represents the sweet spot for Custom neck profiles—thinner than the chunky 1957-1958 necks but retaining more substantial feel than the slim 1960 profiles.

Versus Later Production: The 1959's unpotted PAFs and nitrocellulose finish create more resonant, open tone compared to later wax-potted pickups and thicker polyurethane finishes.

Notable Recordings and Players

The 1959 Les Paul Custom's distinctive voice can be heard on numerous influential recordings:

• Freddy King's blues recordings showcase the Custom's ability to deliver both clean, articulate tones and smooth overdrive

• Roy Buchanan's ethereal lead work demonstrated the instrument's exceptional sustain and harmonic complexity

• Various session musicians of the era utilized Customs for their professional appearance and reliable performance

The instrument's sophisticated voice made it particularly popular in professional studio environments where both visual elegance and tonal versatility were required.

Common Issues and Modifications

When evaluating a 1959 Les Paul Custom, understanding common issues and modifications is crucial for both authentication and value assessment.

Typical Structural Issues

Headstock Repairs: Gibson's angled headstock design, while contributing to tone and string tension, creates a weak point where the headstock meets the neck. Look for:

• Hairline cracks behind the nut

• Discoloration indicating glue repairs

• Slight misalignment of the headstock angle

• Finish touch-ups around the headstock/neck joint

Neck Reset Requirements: After 65+ years, many vintage Les Pauls require neck resets due to:

• Neck angle settling over time

• Bridge height becoming too high for proper intonation

• Action becoming unplayably high despite neck relief adjustment

Binding Shrinkage: The celluloid binding used in 1959 can shrink over time, causing:

• Gaps between binding and wood

• Binding pulling away from body or neck edges

• Cracking along binding joints

Electronics and Hardware Issues

Potentiometer Failure: Original 1959 potentiometers commonly develop:

• Scratchy, intermittent operation

• Complete loss of signal in certain positions

• Shaft becoming loose in the housing

PAF Pickup Concerns: While generally reliable, original PAFs may exhibit:

• Microphonic feedback due to loose internal components

• Reduced output from magnet weakening

• Bobbin cracking (though this is relatively rare)

• Cover corrosion affecting appearance

Hardware Wear: Common hardware issues include:

• Kluson tuner slippage due to worn gear teeth

• Bridge and tailpiece post wear

• Control knob cracking or warping

• Switch tip breakage or replacement

Value-Affecting Modifications

Refinishing: Perhaps the most value-diminishing modification, refinishing can reduce value by 50% or more. Warning signs include:

• Overspray in control cavities or pickup routes

• Inconsistent aging patterns

• Thick, glossy finish over original thin nitrocellulose

• Loss of original finish checking patterns

Pickup Replacements: Original PAF humbuckers are worth $8,000-$15,000 as a set. Replacement pickups, even high-quality reproductions, significantly reduce value. Look for:

• Incorrect pickup ring heights

• Modern mounting screws or springs

• PAF stickers that appear too new or bright

• Pickup cavities showing modern router marks

Hardware Substitutions: Common non-original hardware includes:

• Grover tuners replacing original Klusons

• Modern bridge and tailpiece combinations

• Reproduction control knobs

• Non-original pickup rings or switch tips

Electronics Modifications: Wiring changes that affect value include:

• Modern capacitors replacing original "Bumblebees"

• Shielding paint or copper foil in control cavities

• Coil-tap or phase switches

• Modern high-output potentiometers

Professional Restoration Considerations

When properly executed by qualified experts, certain restorations can actually enhance value:

Appropriate Restorations:

• Professional neck resets when necessary

• Refret work using period-correct wire

• Electronics restoration using appropriate vintage components

• Binding repair using correct celluloid materials

Restoration Red Flags:

• Over-refinishing that removes original patina

• Incorrect specification parts

• Heavy-handed fret work that affects neck profile

• Modern electronics that compromise authenticity

Understanding these common issues helps both in evaluation and in making informed decisions about maintenance and restoration of these valuable instruments.

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1959 Les Paul Custom

The 1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom occupies a unique position in vintage guitar collecting, offering both exceptional playability and historical significance that appeals to diverse segments of the guitar community.

Playing Characteristics

The Perfect Neck Profile: The 1959 Gibson Les Paul is so sought after because of the desirable neck profile, the aesthetically pleasing finish, the Humbucking pickups, and the limited production numbers. The 1959 neck profile represents what many consider the ideal balance:

• Comfort: Substantial enough to provide excellent sustain and stability

• Speed: Not so chunky as to impede fast playing techniques

• Consistency: More uniform than earlier hand-carved necks

• Feel: The broken-in quality that only comes with decades of play

Tonal Versatility: The all-mahogany construction with PAF humbuckers creates an instrument capable of:

• Warm, singing lead tones with exceptional sustain

• Clear, articulate rhythm work that cuts through dense arrangements

• Responsive clean tones that react beautifully to playing dynamics

• Natural compression when pushed into overdrive

Professional Reliability: The Custom's sophisticated engineering makes it exceptionally reliable for professional use:

• Stable tuning with quality Kluson tuners

• Robust construction that withstands professional touring

• Electronics designed for consistent performance

• Hardware built to professional standards

Collector Appeal Factors

Historical Significance: The 1959 Custom represents several important historical milestones:

• Peak year of Gibson's "Golden Era" before corporate changes

• First full year of consistent PAF humbucker production

• Final years before the Les Paul's temporary discontinuation in 1961

• Pinnacle of American guitar craftsmanship in the 1950s

Rarity and Production Numbers: With only 3,000-4,000 examples produced in 1959, the Custom is significantly rarer than many other vintage Gibson models. This scarcity is compounded by:

• Many examples lost to wear, damage, or modification over 65+ years

• Professional use that resulted in heavy wear or destruction

• Limited original production compared to other popular models

Visual and Aesthetic Appeal: The Custom's sophisticated appearance makes it desirable beyond pure musical considerations:

• Elegant black finish that has aged beautifully over decades

• Refined appointments including bound headstock and block inlays

• Professional appearance suitable for high-end performance venues

• Timeless design that remains contemporary

Investment Potential

Market Performance: Vintage Les Paul values are so high because of supply and demand, with 1950s Gibson Les Pauls ranging in value from $10,000 to $400,000. The 1959 Custom has shown consistent appreciation:

• Historical Performance: Steady appreciation over past two decades

• Market Stability: Premium examples maintain value even during economic uncertainty

• Demand Drivers: Baby Boomer collectors competing for finest examples

• Scarcity Factor: Limited supply with no possibility of increased production

Future Outlook: Several factors suggest continued strong performance:

• Increasing recognition of the Custom's distinct voice and historical importance

• Growing collector base appreciating instruments beyond just "Burst" Standards

• Limited supply ensuring continued scarcity premium

• Cross-generational appeal to both players and investors

Cultural and Musical Significance

Professional Adoption: The Custom's sophisticated appointments and professional reliability made it the choice of discerning players:

• Studio musicians who needed both visual elegance and tonal versatility

• Professional touring musicians who required reliable performance

• Recording artists who appreciated the instrument's unique voice

Influence on Guitar Development: The 1959 Custom influenced numerous subsequent designs:

• Template for premium solid-body guitar appointments

• Proof of concept for all-mahogany construction

• Benchmark for humbucker pickup development and implementation

The combination of exceptional playability, historical significance, visual elegance, and investment potential makes the 1959 Les Paul Custom among the most desirable vintage guitars ever produced. Its appeal extends far beyond simple collectibility to encompass genuine musical and cultural importance.

Selling Your 1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom

If you own a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom, you possess one of the most valuable and historically significant guitars ever produced. Understanding your options and choosing the right selling approach can mean the difference of tens of thousands of dollars in your final return.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

Premium Valuations: Our team of vintage guitar experts understands the specific factors that make 1959 Les Paul Customs valuable. We consistently offer 30-40% more than traditional guitar shops because:

• Specialized Knowledge: Our deep expertise in PAF humbucker authentication and 1959-specific features ensures accurate valuation

• Direct Buyer Network: We maintain relationships with serious collectors specifically seeking high-end vintage Gibson instruments

• No Retail Markup: Unlike shops that need to mark up for resale, we buy directly for our collector network

Expert Authentication Services: 1959 Les Paul Customs require specialized knowledge for proper authentication. Our services include:

• PAF Pickup Verification: We can authenticate original PAF humbuckers and identify reproduction stickers or rewound pickups

• Serial Number Cross-Reference: Our database includes production records and known authentic examples

• Hardware Authentication: We identify original Kluson tuners, bridges, and electronic components

• Finish Analysis: Our experts can distinguish between original nitrocellulose and later refinishing work

White-Glove Service Process:

1. Initial Consultation: Free phone or email consultation to discuss your instrument

2. Photo Documentation: Professional photography to document condition and authenticity markers

3. In-Person Evaluation: For high-value instruments, we travel to you for detailed inspection

4. Immediate Offer: Cash offers made on the spot for qualified instruments

5. Secure Transaction: Professional handling of all paperwork and payment processing

Comparison to Other Selling Options

Traditional Guitar Shops:

• Typical Offer: 40-50% of market value

• Knowledge Level: General vintage guitar knowledge, may miss specific 1959 features

• Timeline: Often requires consignment with uncertain timeline

• Risk: May not properly authenticate or value PAF pickups

Online Marketplaces:

• Time Investment: Weeks or months of listing management

• Risk Factors: Potential for scams, returns, or damage in shipping

• Fee Structure: Platform fees, PayPal fees, shipping costs

• Authentication Issues: Buyers often request expensive third-party authentication

Auction Houses:

• Timeline: 3-6 months from consignment to payment

• Costs: 15-25% seller's premium plus insurance and photography fees

• Uncertainty: No guarantee of final selling price

• Condition Requirements: Often require expensive professional setup and documentation

Edgewater Advantage:

• Immediate Payment: Cash offers with same-day payment capability

• Zero Fees: No commissions, listing fees, or hidden costs

• Expert Evaluation: Proper valuation of all original components

• Convenience: We handle all aspects of the transaction

Documentation That Adds Value

Having proper documentation can significantly increase your instrument's value:

Original Case: Brown Lifton case with pink lining can add $1,500-$2,500 Hang Tags: Original Gibson hang tags or paperwork add 10-15% to value Provenance: Documentation of famous ownership or recording use Professional Appraisals: Recent appraisals from recognized vintage guitar experts Maintenance Records: Documentation of professional care and maintenance

Preparation for Sale

Before Contacting Us:

• Locate serial number on back of headstock

• Check for original case and any paperwork

• Note any modifications or repairs you're aware of

• Gather any provenance information or history

What We Don't Need:

• Professional cleaning or setup work

• Expensive third-party authentication

• Costly photography or documentation

• Repairs or restoration work

Geographic Service Area

Edgewater Guitars provides premium vintage guitar buying services throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. For exceptional instruments like 1959 Les Paul Customs, we regularly travel to buyers for in-person evaluation and immediate purchase. Our mobile service includes:

• Professional evaluation equipment

• Same-day cash payment capability

• Secure transportation for the instrument

• All necessary documentation and paperwork

Ready to sell your 1959 Gibson Les Paul Custom? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation valuation. Call us directly at (440) 219-3607 or visit our website to submit photos and information about your instrument.

Related Resources for 1959 Les Paul Custom Owners

Authentication and Dating Resources

Gibson Serial Number Guides:

• Gibson Official Serial Number Search - Gibson's official database

• Edgewater Guitars Gibson Serial Number Guide - Comprehensive dating information

• Gibson Factory Order Number Guide - For instruments with FON markings

PAF Humbucker Authentication:

• PAF Pickup Identification Guide - Visual guide to authentic vs. reproduction PAFs

• Potentiometer Dating Charts - Dating your electronics components

• Gibson Hardware Timeline - When specific hardware was used

Related Model Information

If you're researching other vintage Gibson models, these resources may be helpful:

Other 1959 Gibson Models:

• 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard Guide - The famous "Burst" models

• 1959 Gibson ES-335 Information - First year of the semi-hollow classic

• 1959 Gibson Les Paul Junior Guide - Single-pickup model from same year

Les Paul Custom Evolution:

• 1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom - First year of PAF humbuckers

• 1958 Gibson Les Paul Custom - Second year development

• 1960 Gibson Les Paul Custom - Final year before discontinuation

Professional Services

Restoration and Maintenance:

• Gibson Authorized Repair Centers - For professional maintenance

• Vintage Guitar Restoration Specialists - Experts in 1950s Gibson work

• PAF Humbucker Service - Specialized pickup maintenance

Appraisal Services:

• Certified Guitar Appraisers - For insurance or estate purposes

• Expert Authentication Services - Third-party verification

Additional Reading

Essential Reference Books:

• "Gruhn's Guide to Vintage Guitars" by George Gruhn and Walter Carter

• "The Official Vintage Guitar Price Guide" (Current Year Edition)

• "Gibson Les Paul: The Complete History" by Tony Bacon

Online Communities:

• Les Paul Forum - Active community of Custom and Standard enthusiasts

• The Gear Page - Professional musician discussions of vintage Gibson guitars

• Vintage Guitar Magazine Online - Current market information and expert articles

Selling Your Guitar

Main Selling Guide:

• How to Sell Your Vintage Gibson - Complete process overview

• Vintage Guitar Valuation Guide - Understanding market values

• Guitar Selling FAQ - Common questions answered

Immediate Quote Request: Ready to get a quote for your 1959 Les Paul Custom or other vintage Gibson? Use our secure quote request system or call us directly.