1960 Gibson ES-355: The Ultimate Expression of Semi-Hollow Craftsmanship

Why the 1960 ES-355 Matters

The 1960 Gibson ES-355 represents the absolute pinnacle of Gibson's semi-hollow guitar design and craftsmanship. Introduced in 1958 as the deluxe version of the groundbreaking ES-335 series, the ES-355 by 1960 had evolved into what many consider the most sophisticated and luxurious electric guitar of its era. Built during Gibson's golden age of manufacturing excellence, these instruments combine revolutionary thinline semi-hollow construction with premium appointments that set them apart from every other guitar of the period.

What makes the 1960 ES-355 uniquely special:

• Peak-era PAF humbucking pickups in their most coveted year of production

• Exquisite craftsmanship during Gibson's pre-corporate ownership period

• Revolutionary Varitone electronics offering unprecedented tonal versatility

• Premium appointments including gold-plated hardware and ornate inlays

• The perfect balance of sustain and feedback resistance from the maple center block

• Built with premium woods and meticulous attention to detail before cost-cutting measures

• Represents the culmination of Ted McCarty's innovative vision for Gibson

The 1960 ES-355 stands as both a technological marvel and an artistic masterpiece. With its distinctive split-diamond headstock inlay, elegant ebony fingerboard with mother-of-pearl block inlays, and sophisticated electronics package, it was Gibson's flagship semi-hollow instrument—a guitar that commanded respect from both jazz masters and rock pioneers.

Historical Context: Gibson at Its Creative Peak

1960 marked a crucial year in Gibson's history, representing the final period of Ted McCarty's innovative leadership before corporate changes would alter the company's direction. During this time, Gibson was pushing the boundaries of electric guitar design while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship that had established their reputation.

The ES-355's Place in Gibson's Lineup: The ES-355 served as the premium model in Gibson's revolutionary thinline series, which had debuted in 1958 with the ES-335. By 1960, Gibson had refined the concept to perfection, creating an instrument that offered the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid-body guitar with the warmth and resonance of a hollow-body.

Revolutionary Design Elements: The 1960 ES-355 featured several groundbreaking innovations that set it apart from all previous electric guitars:

• Thinline Semi-Hollow Construction: The revolutionary design featured a solid maple center block running through the middle of the body, with hollow wings on either side

• Varitone Electronics: A sophisticated 6-position rotary switch that provided multiple tonal options through capacitor filtering

• Stereo Wiring Option: Many 1960 ES-355s featured innovative stereo output capabilities

• Premium Hardware: All components were gold-plated, from tuners to tailpiece

Manufacturing Excellence: By 1960, Gibson's Kalamazoo factory had perfected their production techniques for the ES-355. Each instrument received individual attention from skilled craftsmen who understood that these guitars represented the company's technological and artistic pinnacle. Quality control was exceptional, with detailed inspection procedures ensuring that only the finest examples left the factory.

Artist Adoption: The ES-355's combination of versatility and luxury quickly attracted professional musicians. Jazz artists appreciated its warm, complex tone, while early rock players discovered its ability to handle higher volumes without the feedback problems associated with fully hollow instruments. Notable early adopters included several prominent session players and touring musicians who valued the instrument's reliability and tonal sophistication.

The PAF Era Peak: 1960 represented the absolute pinnacle of Gibson's PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker development. These pickups, wound by hand with precise techniques developed over three years of production, achieved a perfect balance of output, clarity, and harmonic complexity that has never been equaled in mass production.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

The market for 1960 Gibson ES-355 guitars has experienced remarkable appreciation over the past decade, with collectors and players recognizing these instruments as among the finest electric guitars ever produced. The combination of PAF pickups, premium construction, and historical significance has driven values to unprecedented levels.

Current Market Values:

Standard ES-355 Models:

• Excellent Condition (all original): $35,000-50,000

• Very Good Condition (minor modifications): $25,000-35,000

• Good Condition (some wear/modifications): $18,000-28,000

• Museum-Quality Examples: $50,000-75,000+

Stereo/Varitone Models:

• Excellent Condition (all original): $45,000-65,000

• Very Good Condition: $30,000-45,000

• Good Condition: $22,000-35,000

Premium Factors Adding Value:

• Original PAF Pickups: Clean sets of vintage Gibson PAFs from 1960 can be worth about $20,000 or more

• Bigsby Vibrato: Factory Bigsby adds $3,000-5,000 to value

• Stop Tailpiece: Original ABR-1/stop tail combination preferred by collectors

• Documentation: Original case, warranty cards increase value by 15-20%

Key Value Factors:

Originality Premium:

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

• Original PAF pickups are crucial—replacement pickups reduce value by $15,000-25,000

• Original electronics and wiring harness significantly affect value

• Untouched finish condition adds substantial premium

Hardware Considerations:

• All gold-plated hardware must be original and in good condition

• Varitone switch functionality is crucial for stereo models

• Original tuners, bridge, and tailpiece significantly impact value

• Any chrome hardware indicates modification or replacement

Condition Factors:

• Finish checking and aging are expected and don't reduce value

• Neck integrity is crucial—any repairs significantly impact value

• Fret condition affects playability but not collector value if original

• Electronic functionality important for both player and collector markets

Important Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium 1960 ES-355 examples. Our expertise in PAF authentication and ES-355 originality assessment ensures you receive full market value for these exceptional instruments.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Numbers

1960 Gibson ES-355 guitars used the 5-digit serial number system with the format "X XXXX" stamped on the back of the headstock. For 1960 guitars, the first digit will be "0" indicating the last digit of the year (0 = 1960). Serial numbers for 1960 typically range from approximately 0 1000 to 0 8000.

Factory Order Numbers (FON)

In addition to serial numbers, 1960 ES-355s have Factory Order Numbers that provide more precise dating:

• Orange oval labels inside the left f-hole contain the FON

• 1960 FONs typically range from R 8500 to R 9600

• The FON is often more accurate for dating than the serial number

Potentiometer Dating

1960 ES-355s used various potentiometer manufacturers:

• Centralab: Most common, with date codes showing 6022-6052 (week/year format)

• CTS: Less common but used in some 1960 examples

• IRC: Rarely found but documented in some late 1960 instruments

Neck Dating

• Hand-written dates on the neck heel (visible when neck is removed from body)

• 1960 necks typically show dates like "1-60" through "12-60"

• Ink-stamped dates began appearing in late 1960

Visual Identification Features

Headstock Characteristics:

• Ornate split-diamond mother-of-pearl inlay

• "Gibson" logo in pearl script

• Gold-plated tuners with pearl buttons

• Distinctive headstock shape with refined proportions

Body Features:

• Thinline semi-hollow construction with f-holes

• Maple center block (not visible but crucial for identification)

• Multiple binding layers on top and back

• Gold-plated hardware throughout

Fingerboard Specifications:

• Ebony fingerboard with mother-of-pearl block inlays

• 22 frets with medium crown height

• Bound fingerboard edges

• 12th fret inlay distinctively larger than other positions

Electronic Components:

• Standard Models: Traditional two-pickup, four-control layout

• Varitone Models: Additional 6-position rotary switch for tonal variation

• Stereo Models: Special wiring for stereo output capabilities

Hardware Specifications

• Bridge: ABR-1 Tune-o-matic bridge, gold-plated

• Tailpiece: Stop tailpiece or Bigsby vibrato, gold-plated

• Tuners: Kluson Deluxe with pearl buttons

• Pickups: PAF humbuckers with chrome or gold mounting rings

• Controls: Gold-plated control knobs and pickup selector switch

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Construction and Dimensions

• Body Wood: Laminated maple back and sides with solid maple center block

• Top: Laminated maple with traditional f-holes

• Weight Range: Typically 8.5-9.5 pounds (most examples 8.8-9.2 pounds)

• Body Depth: 1.75 inches (thinline construction)

• Scale Length: 24.75 inches (Gibson standard)

Neck Specifications

• Neck Wood: Mahogany with ebony fingerboard

• Neck Profile: Medium C-shape with comfortable feel

• Nut Width: 1.69 inches (43mm)

• Fingerboard Radius: 12 inches (flatter than Les Paul models)

• Fret Count: 22 frets, medium crown height

• Binding: Single-ply cream binding on fingerboard edges

Pickup Specifications

The 1960 ES-355's PAF humbuckers represent the pinnacle of Gibson's pickup development:

• Type: Patent Applied For (PAF) humbuckers

• Resistance: Typical readings around 8.2-8.4k ohms per pickup

• Magnet Type: Alnico II or Alnico V (varied by production period)

• Wire: 42 AWG plain enamel wire

• Covers: Chrome or gold-plated depending on model variation

Electronics Layout

Standard Models:

• Two volume controls, two tone controls

• 3-way pickup selector switch

• Traditional Gibson wiring with high-quality capacitors

Varitone Models:

• Additional 6-position rotary switch for tonal filtering

• More complex wiring harness with specialized capacitors

• Often featured stereo output capabilities

Case Information

• Case Type: Brown hardshell case with gold Gibson logo

• Interior: Pink plush lining (distinctive to this era)

• Hardware: Chrome latches and handle

• Compartment: Accessory compartment with Gibson literature

Tonal Characteristics

The 1960 Gibson ES-355 offers a unique sonic palette that combines the best characteristics of hollow-body warmth with solid-body sustain and clarity.

Sonic Profile

Neck Pickup (Rhythm Position):

• Warm, rich tone perfect for jazz and blues

• Excellent note definition without muddiness

• Smooth treble response ideal for chord work

• Natural compression enhances sustain

Bridge Pickup (Treble Position):

• Bright, cutting tone with excellent clarity

• Perfect balance of warmth and articulation

• Exceptional sustain without feedback issues

• Ideal for both rhythm and lead applications

Both Pickups (Middle Position):

• Complex, layered tone with enhanced harmonics

• Perfect for sophisticated chord voicings

• Excellent recording characteristics

• Unique tonal color not available from solid-body guitars

Construction Impact on Tone

Semi-Hollow Design Benefits:

• The maple center block provides solid-body sustain and feedback resistance

• Hollow wings add acoustic resonance and warmth

• F-holes contribute to the instrument's acoustic properties

• Perfect balance between sustain and natural acoustic character

PAF Pickup Characteristics:

• Hand-wound construction creates subtle variations in tone

• Alnico magnets provide smooth, musical distortion characteristics

• Lower output than modern pickups maintains clarity

• Excellent dynamic response to playing technique

Wood Selection Impact:

• Maple body provides bright, clear fundamental tone

• Ebony fingerboard adds clarity and note definition

• Mahogany neck contributes warmth and sustain

• Premium wood selection enhances resonance and aging characteristics

Varitone System (When Present)

The Varitone system provides six different tonal options through capacitor filtering:

• Position 1: Full, unfiltered tone

• Positions 2-6: Progressive high-frequency filtering creating darker tones

• Unique Applications: Excellent for recording multiple tonal colors

• Maintenance: Original Varitone systems require periodic cleaning and adjustment

Common Issues & Modifications

Typical Problems Found in 1960 ES-355s

Finish Issues:

• Natural lacquer checking and aging (normal and expected)

• Binding discoloration (cream binding yellows naturally)

• Hardware corrosion on gold plating (common on older instruments)

• F-hole edge wear from pick contact

Structural Concerns:

• Neck joint stability (semi-hollow construction requires different considerations)

• Center block shifting (rare but documented)

• Binding separation around f-holes

• Top or back separation along binding edges

Electronics Problems:

• Varitone switch corrosion and functionality issues

• Potentiometer oxidation causing scratchy operation

• PAF pickup cover corrosion (especially on gold-plated versions)

• Wiring harness degradation from age and heat

Value-Affecting Modifications

Highly Negative Modifications:

• PAF pickup replacement (reduces value by $15,000-25,000)

• Refinishing (reduces value by 50-70%)

• Neck repairs or replacement

• Varitone system removal or modification

• Hardware replacement with incorrect specifications

Neutral or Acceptable Modifications:

• Professional fret replacement when necessary

• Electronics restoration using period-correct components

• Structural repairs when properly executed

• Case replacement due to deterioration

Authentication Red Flags

Warning Signs of Fake or Modified Instruments:

• Modern pickup mounting rings or pickups without proper documentation

• Incorrect serial number formats or placement

• Non-period hardware or electronics

• Refinishing attempts to hide modifications

• Incorrect binding materials or construction techniques

PAF Authentication Concerns:

• Many ES-355s have had their valuable PAF pickups removed and sold separately

• Replacement pickups significantly impact value even if high-quality

• Original PAF stickers and mounting hardware are crucial for authentication

• Magnet and wire testing may be necessary for definitive authentication

Why Players and Collectors Value 1960 ES-355s

Playing Characteristics

Versatility:

• Excellent for jazz, blues, rock, and country applications

• Comfortable neck profile suits most playing styles

• Perfect balance between acoustic warmth and electric sustain

• Exceptional recording characteristics across multiple genres

Build Quality:

• Peak-era Gibson craftsmanship with attention to individual instruments

• Premium materials throughout construction

• Reliable hardware and electronics with proper maintenance

• Exceptional sustain and resonance from semi-hollow design

Comfort and Ergonomics:

• Thinline body reduces weight while maintaining tone

• Comfortable neck profile and fingerboard radius

• Well-balanced instrument that doesn't cause fatigue

• Professional-grade appointments enhance playing experience

Collector Appeal

Historical Significance:

• Represents Gibson's technological peak in semi-hollow design

• Built during Ted McCarty's innovative leadership period

• Documents the evolution of electric guitar technology

• Captures the essence of late 1950s/early 1960s musical innovation

Investment Potential:

• Consistent appreciation over multiple decades

• Limited production numbers with increasing scarcity

• Recognition as "vintage" by insurance and appraisal standards

• Strong market performance independent of economic cycles

Rarity Factors:

• Much lower production numbers than solid-body models

• Many instruments modified or damaged over 60+ years

• Original PAF pickups frequently removed and sold separately

• Complete, unmodified examples increasingly rare

Cultural Impact

The ES-355's sophisticated electronics and premium appointments attracted professional musicians who valued both its tonal versatility and visual impact. The instrument's presence on important recordings from the early 1960s established its reputation as a professional-grade instrument capable of handling any musical challenge while maintaining the elegance expected in upscale venues.

Selling Your 1960 ES-355

If you own a 1960 Gibson ES-355, Edgewater Guitars offers the most comprehensive service for owners looking to sell these valuable and sophisticated instruments.

Our 1960 ES-355 Expertise

Authentication Services:

• Complete PAF pickup verification and documentation

• Varitone system functionality testing and assessment

• Serial number and FON cross-referencing for accurate dating

• Comprehensive originality assessment with detailed reporting

Market Valuation:

• Current pricing based on recent sales and market trends

• PAF pickup authentication and value assessment

• Varitone system impact on value (when present)

• Condition evaluation with restoration recommendations

Professional Documentation:

• High-resolution photography highlighting key features and appointments

• Detailed written condition and authenticity reports

• Historical context and significance documentation

• Comparison analysis with recent market sales

Why Choose Edgewater for Your 1960 ES-355

Premium Valuations:

• We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops

• Deep understanding of ES-355 market dynamics and collector preferences

• Recognition of subtle details that significantly affect value

• Expertise in both standard and Varitone model valuations

Specialized Knowledge:

• Extensive experience with PAF pickup authentication

• Understanding of Varitone system complexity and collector appeal

• Ability to identify period-correct modifications versus value-reducing changes

• Network of serious collectors seeking specific ES-355 variations

White-Glove Service:

• Secure handling of high-value instruments with appropriate insurance

• On-site evaluation for exceptional examples

• Immediate cash offers with transparent, detailed pricing explanations

• Professional transaction handling with complete documentation

Ready to discuss your 1960 ES-355? Contact us today for your free, professional evaluation: (440) 219-3607

The Edgewater Advantage

Unlike general music stores that may not recognize the crucial differences between original PAF pickups and replacements, or understand the complexity of Varitone systems, our team specializes in Gibson semi-hollow authentication. We understand the premium value of original electronics, the importance of untouched finishes, and the impact of even minor modifications on collector value.

Related Resources

Essential Authentication Guides

• Complete Gibson Serial Number Dating Guide

• Gibson ES-335/345/355 Identification Reference

• PAF Pickup Authentication Guide

• Gibson Potentiometer Dating Reference

Market Information

• Vintage Gibson Semi-Hollow Value Guide

• PAF Pickup Market Analysis

• Gibson Investment Grade Instruments

Related Model Guides

• 1959 Gibson ES-355: The Debut Year

• 1961 Gibson ES-355: Refined Excellence

• Gibson ES-335 vs ES-355: Understanding the Differences

• Selling Your Vintage Gibson

Recent 1960 ES-355 Purchase Example

Case Study: 1960 ES-355 with Varitone and Bigsby

Recently, we acquired an exceptional 1960 ES-355 with Varitone and Bigsby vibrato from an estate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This sophisticated instrument featured:

• Original cherry finish in excellent condition with beautiful aging

• All-original electronics including functional Varitone system

• Unopened double white PAF pickups reading 8.37k (bridge) and 8.24k (neck)

• Factory-installed Bigsby B7 vibrato with gold plating intact

• Matching serial number and FON dating to early 1960

• Original brown hardshell case with pink interior

The Family's Experience: "We inherited this guitar from our uncle, who was a professional musician in the 1960s. He always said it was special, but we had no idea how valuable it had become. Local shops offered between $15,000-20,000, but Edgewater's detailed evaluation revealed the exceptional condition of the PAF pickups and the rarity of the Varitone system. Their offer of $52,000 was more than double what others quoted, and they explained every aspect of the valuation process. The transaction was handled with complete professionalism."

This example demonstrates our commitment to recognizing the full value of exceptional ES-355 variations. Our expertise in PAF authentication and Varitone system evaluation allowed us to identify features that less specialized buyers might significantly undervalue.

Expert Authentication Made the Difference

The Varitone system required specialized testing to confirm full functionality, as many vintage units have capacitor failures that affect operation. Our team also identified the specific PAF pickup characteristics that indicated they had never been opened or modified, adding substantial value to the instrument. The factory Bigsby installation was documented through period-correct mounting hardware and finish patterns.

Conclusion

The 1960 Gibson ES-355 stands as one of the most sophisticated and desirable electric guitars ever produced. These instruments represent the perfect synthesis of innovative design, premium materials, and meticulous craftsmanship that defined Gibson's golden era. Whether equipped with the revolutionary Varitone system or featuring the classic simplicity of the standard model, every 1960 ES-355 embodies the pinnacle of semi-hollow guitar development.

The combination of PAF humbuckers, premium appointments, and revolutionary construction techniques ensures that these instruments will remain highly sought-after for generations to come. As both playing instruments and collector pieces, they offer a unique connection to the golden age of American guitar manufacturing and the innovative spirit that drove Gibson's greatest achievements.

Understanding the specific characteristics, market values, and authentication points of your 1960 ES-355 is crucial for making informed decisions about its care, insurance, or potential sale. The sophisticated electronics, premium hardware, and complex construction of these instruments make expert evaluation essential for determining their true value and significance.

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. For high-value instruments like 1960 ES-355s, we provide comprehensive authentication, professional valuation, and immediate cash offers. Contact us today to discover what your Gibson semi-hollow masterpiece is truly worth.

Contact Information: Phone: (440) 219-3607 Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com Service Area: Ohio and surrounding states Online: edgewaterguitars.com

About the Author: Our vintage guitar specialists have over 25 years of combined experience in Gibson semi-hollow authentication and valuation. We've handled dozens of ES-355s from the golden era and maintain detailed records of market trends, PAF pickup authentication, and Varitone system functionality. Our expertise ensures accurate identification and fair market valuation for these exceptional instruments, whether standard models or sophisticated Varitone variations.