1960 Gibson Super 400CES: The Ultimate PAF-Era Jazz Guitar

Why the 1960 Gibson Super 400CES Matters

The 1960 Gibson Super 400CES represents the pinnacle of American jazz guitar craftsmanship during the most collectible pickup era in history. As the final year of PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker production on Gibson's ultimate 18-inch arch-top guitar, the 1960 Super 400CES combines hand-carved construction, premium figured maple, elaborate appointments, and the legendary PAF pickups that define vintage guitar tone.

This specific year marks a critical transition point—1960 Super 400CES guitars feature the last of the original PAF humbuckers before Gibson transitioned to patent number pickups in 1961. For collectors and players seeking the absolute finest jazz guitar ever made, with the most desirable pickups ever produced, the 1960 Super 400CES stands as the holy grail. These guitars command six-figure prices in excellent original condition, representing both the ultimate playing instrument and investment-grade collectible.

Historical Context: Gibson in 1960

The Super 400CES at Its Peak

In 1960, Gibson's Super 400CES had been in electric production for nine years, representing the company's flagship electric arch-top guitar. The model combined pre-war Super 400 craftsmanship traditions with modern electric design, creating what many consider the finest jazz guitar ever produced.

What Made 1960 Special:

• Final year of PAF humbucker pickups on Super 400CES

• Peak of hand-carved Gibson quality before 1960s changes

• Ultimate refinement of Super 400CES specifications

• Last year before patent number pickup transition

• Represents zenith of American arch-top electric guitar development

Production Context:

• Hand-carved by Gibson's master luthiers in Kalamazoo, Michigan

• Extremely limited production (fewer than 100 estimated annually)

• $800+ retail price (equivalent to $8,000+ today)

• Highest-grade figured maple selection

• Premium Adirondack or Sitka spruce tops

• Gold-plated hardware throughout

The PAF Pickup Significance

1960 marked the final year Gibson used PAF (Patent Applied For) humbuckers before transitioning to patent number pickups. PAF pickups are the most collectible guitar pickups ever made, and having them on Gibson's ultimate jazz guitar creates extraordinary value:

Why PAF Pickups Matter:

• Hand-wound with inconsistent turns (creates unique tonal character)

• Unpotted or lightly potted (more harmonic complexity)

• Alnico 2, 3, 4, or 5 magnets (varied tonal profiles)

• Patent sticker (early) or no sticker (late 1959-1960)

• DC resistance typically 7.5k-9.0k ohms

• Considered finest guitar pickups ever made

• Define vintage humbucker tone

Notable Players Using Super 400CES in 1960

Jazz Legends:

• Wes Montgomery (associated with Super 400, though he primarily played L-5CES)

• Kenny Burrell (Super 400 player during this era)

• Various studio session musicians

• Top-tier jazz guitarists seeking ultimate tone

• Country session players (Nashville)

Current Market Value: 1960 Gibson Super 400CES (2025 Update)

Current Pricing by Condition

Excellent All-Original Condition:

• Natural finish: $100,000-$150,000

• Sunburst finish: $90,000-$140,000

• With original case and documentation: Premium additional

• Exceptional flame maple: Upper range pricing

• Complete provenance: Adds significant value

Very Good Original Condition:

• Natural finish: $75,000-$100,000

• Sunburst finish: $70,000-$95,000

• Minor wear acceptable

• Original PAF pickups essential

• Original gold hardware critical

Good Original Condition:

• Natural finish: $60,000-$80,000

• Sunburst finish: $55,000-$75,000

• Play wear present

• Original parts intact

• Functional condition

Value Factors Specific to 1960 Super 400CES

Premium Features:

1. Original PAF pickups (essential): Add $30,000-$50,000 vs. replaced pickups

2. Natural finish: Commands 10-15% premium over sunburst

3. Exceptional flame maple: Adds $10,000-$20,000

4. All-original gold hardware: Essential for maximum value

5. Original case: Adds $2,000-$5,000

6. Documentation/provenance: Significant premium

Value Reductions:

• Replaced pickups: -$30,000 to -$50,000 (catastrophic)

• Refinished: -40% to -60% of value

• Modified electronics: -20% to -40%

• Replaced hardware: -15% to -25%

• Non-original case: Minor reduction

• Neck repair: -20% to -40% depending on quality

Why 1960 Commands Premium Over Other Years

1960 vs. 1959: Essentially equivalent value—both are final PAF years 1960 vs. 1961: 1960 worth 30-50% more due to PAF pickups 1960 vs. 1962-1965: 1960 worth 40-60% more due to PAF pickups 1960 vs. Earlier (1951-1956): 1960 worth 50-100% more due to PAF pickups vs. P-90s or Alnico Vs

Recent Auction Results

Notable 1960 Super 400CES Sales:

• 2023: Natural finish, all-original: $135,000 (Heritage Auctions)

• 2022: Sunburst, exceptional condition: $118,000 (Reverb)

• 2024: Natural finish with provenance: $142,000 (private sale)

Market Trends: 1960 Super 400CES guitars have appreciated 60-80% over past decade, with PAF-era examples showing strongest growth.

Edgewater's Premium Offers: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops. For a 1960 Super 400CES worth $120,000 retail, local shops might offer $60,000-$70,000. Edgewater's offer: $85,000-$95,000 with immediate payment.

Detailed Identification Guide: 1960 Gibson Super 400CES

Serial Numbers

1960 Serial Number Range: A-27000 to A-30000 (approximate)

Serial Number Location:

• Inside guitar visible through f-hole

• Stamped on orange label

• "A" prefix followed by five digits

• Example: "A 28547"

Important: Serial numbers overlap between years. Use Factory Order Number for precise dating.

Factory Order Number (FON)

1960 FON Code: "I" (letter I)

FON Format: I-#### (I followed by 4 digits indicating production batch)

Example: "I-2847" = 1960 production, batch 2847

Location: Stamped inside guitar on internal bracing, visible through f-hole

Why FON Is Critical: Most reliable dating method for 1960 Super 400CES

Potentiometer Codes

1960 Pot Codes: Should show 1959 or early 1960 dates

Expected Codes:

• 137 5940 = CTS pot, 1959, 40th week

• 137 6005 = CTS pot, 1960, 5th week

• 134 5945 = Centralab pot, 1959, 45th week

• 134 6010 = Centralab pot, 1960, 10th week

Location: Four potentiometers accessible through f-hole or control cavity

Red Flag: Pot codes dated 1961 or later indicate replacement electronics

Headstock Details

Logo: Gibson script logo in pearl

Model Designation: "Super 400 CES" in pearl script below logo

Inlay: Split-diamond inlay in headstock

Binding: Multi-ply binding (white/black/white layers)

Tuners: Grover Imperial tuners, gold-plated

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Construction

Body Width: 18 inches (lower bout)—largest production electric guitar

Body Length: Approximately 21 inches

Body Depth: Approximately 3.5 inches at rim

Construction:

• Hand-carved spruce top (Sitka spruce primary, some Adirondack)

• Hand-carved figured maple back (highly figured, bookmatched)

• Figured maple sides

• Semi-hollow with center block (electric version)

• Maple center block for feedback resistance

Top Carving: Hand-carved with graduated thickness, premium arch

Weight: Typically 8.5-10.5 lbs (varies with wood density)

Neck Specifications

Neck Material: Mahogany

Fingerboard: Ebony

Scale Length: 25.5 inches

Fretboard Radius: Approximately 12 inches

Nut Width: 1 11/16 inches

Neck Profile: Medium rounded C-shape, comfortable jazz profile

Frets: Medium frets (vintage spec)

Inlays: Split-block mother-of-pearl inlays (signature Super 400 feature)

Binding: Multi-ply binding on fingerboard and neck

Pickup Specifications (Critical)

Pickups: Two PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker pickups

PAF Characteristics (1960):

• Hand-wound with Formvar wire

• Unpotted or lightly wax-potted

• Alnico 2, 3, 4, or 5 magnets (varied)

• Long magnet or short magnet (both correct)

• Patent sticker often absent by late 1959/1960

• Double-black bobbins or zebra bobbins (both correct)

Expected DC Resistance:

• Neck pickup: 7.5k-8.5k ohms typically

• Bridge pickup: 8.0k-9.0k ohms typically

• Variance normal due to hand-winding

Pickup Covers: Gold-plated covers standard

Mounting: Metal pickup surrounds, gold-plated

Hardware Specifications

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

Tailpiece: Separate tailpiece, gold-plated, engraved "Super 400"

Tuners: Grover Imperial tuners, gold-plated, six-in-line

Control Knobs: Gold "reflector" knobs (early) or gold "top hat" knobs

Switch Tip: Amber or black plastic toggle switch tip

Output Jack: Standard 1/4" jack, side-mounted

Electronics and Controls

Control Layout:

• Two volume controls (one per pickup)

• Two tone controls (one per pickup)

• Three-way selector switch

Potentiometers: 500k audio taper, CTS or Centralab

Capacitors: "Bumble bee" capacitors (.022 mfd typical)

Wiring: Cloth-covered vintage wiring

Switch: Switchcraft toggle switch

Finish Options

Natural Finish (most common):

• Blonde/natural figured maple

• Shows premium wood figure

• Clear nitrocellulose lacquer

• Slight amber tint from age

• Most valuable finish option

Sunburst Finish (available):

• Shaded tobacco or cherry sunburst

• Nitrocellulose lacquer

• Hand-applied finish

• Beautiful gradation

• Slightly less common than natural

Finish Application: Hand-sprayed thin nitrocellulose lacquer, ages to beautiful patina

Binding

Body Binding: Multi-ply (5-ply or 7-ply)—white/black/white/black/white

F-Hole Binding: Multi-ply binding around f-holes

Fingerboard Binding: Multi-ply binding

Headstock Binding: Multi-ply binding

Binding Quality: Premium ivoroid, elaborate Gibson appointments

Case

Original Case (1960):

• Brown hardshell case

• Pink plush interior

• Gibson logo on case

• Arched top case design

• Extremely valuable to collectors (adds $2,000-$5,000)

Tonal Characteristics of 1960 Super 400CES

The Sound

Overall Character:

• Warm, rich, complex jazz tone

• Powerful acoustic projection despite electric design

• Clear note separation even in dense chords

• Balanced frequency response

• Premium acoustic resonance with electric power

PAF Pickup Tone:

• Sweet, singing lead tones

• Complex harmonic overtones

• Slightly scooped midrange compared to modern pickups

• Touch-sensitive dynamics

• Unpotted PAF "bloom" and feedback (musical)

• Clarity without harshness

Why 1960 Sounds Special:

• PAF pickups provide vintage warmth

• Hand-carved top responds acoustically

• 18-inch body creates full, rich bass response

• Semi-hollow center block balances feedback control with resonance

• Premium figured maple adds brightness and clarity

• Ebony fingerboard contributes to clear articulation

Comparison to Other Years:

• 1960 vs. 1959: Essentially identical tonally

• 1960 vs. 1961+: PAF pickups warmer, more complex than patent number

• 1960 vs. 1951-1956: Humbuckers eliminate hum, thicker tone than P-90s

Why Construction Affects Tone

Hand-Carved Top: Graduated carving allows top to vibrate freely, creating acoustic character that translates through pickups

18-Inch Body: Massive air chamber creates deep bass response and full, rich tone

Figured Maple: Premium wood adds brightness and clarity while maintaining warmth

Semi-Hollow Design: Center block prevents feedback while preserving acoustic resonance

PAF Pickups: Unpotted or lightly potted design allows more harmonic complexity

Common Issues and Modifications

Typical Issues Found

Pickup Replacements (Most Common):

• Original PAF pickups often stolen/replaced

• Modern reproductions common

• Severely affects value (-$30,000 to -$50,000)

• Verify PAF authenticity critically important

Finish Checking:

• Nitrocellulose lacquer checks with age

• Fine spider-web pattern normal

• Extensive checking acceptable on vintage guitar

• Heavy checking may indicate refinish

Hardware Corrosion:

• Gold plating wears on frequently touched areas

• Some wear normal and expected

• Heavy corrosion suggests poor storage

• Original hardware essential for value

Electronics Issues:

• Potentiometers may need cleaning or replacement

• Original pots essential for value

• Capacitors may drift out of spec

• Switch contacts may need cleaning

Bridge Issues:

• ABR-1 bridge may need reslotting

• Saddles may show string wear

• Bridge height adjustment screws may seize

• Original bridge critical for value

Common Modifications

Pickup Replacements:

• PAF pickups extremely valuable ($10,000-$25,000 per pair)

• Often stolen and sold separately

• Modern pickups installed

• Verification essential

Re-Plated Hardware:

• Gold plating wears and may be re-done

• Affects originality but less critical than pickup replacement

• Professional re-plating acceptable to some collectors

Refrets:

• Original frets often worn after 65 years

• Professional refret acceptable

• Should maintain correct vintage fret specifications

• Minimal value impact if done properly

Electronics Replaced:

• Pots, capacitors, wiring often replaced

• Original electronics essential for maximum value

• Document any replacement parts

Warning Signs of Refinishes or Counterfeits

Refinish Indicators:

• Overspray in f-holes or binding

• Paint on internal bracing

• Thick, glossy finish (original is thin)

• Lack of age-appropriate checking

• Wrong finish color or application

Counterfeit Concerns:

• Fake PAF pickups common (verify authenticity)

• Incorrect serial number formats

• Wrong hardware specifications

• Incorrect binding patterns

• Modern construction methods

Authentication Critical: Have valuable Super 400CES professionally authenticated

Why Players and Collectors Value 1960 Super 400CES

Playing Characteristics

For Jazz Guitarists:

• Ultimate jazz guitar tone and response

• 18-inch body provides full, rich sound

• PAF pickups deliver vintage warmth

• Comfortable neck for complex chord voicings

• Excellent note separation in dense chords

• Studio-quality sound projection

For Recording:

• Premium acoustic character translates to microphones

• Electric versatility for various tones

• Balanced frequency response sits in mix

• Dynamic touch response

• Professional studio standard

Collector Appeal

Investment Factors:

• PAF-era Super 400CES extremely rare (fewer than 100 per year)

• Values appreciated 60-80% over past decade

• Six-figure guitars showing strongest growth

• Gibson's ultimate model with ultimate pickups

• Hand-carved craftsmanship irreplaceable

• Historical significance

Rarity:

• Extremely limited 1960 production

• Gibson's most expensive guitar

• Hand-carved by master luthiers

• Many modified or damaged over 65 years

• All-original examples increasingly rare

Historical Significance:

• Final year of PAF pickups

• Represents zenith of American jazz guitar

• Ultimate Gibson craftsmanship

• Peak era specifications

Selling Your 1960 Gibson Super 400CES

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

Our 1960 Super 400CES Expertise:

• Vintage Gibson hollow-body specialists

• PAF pickup authentication experts

• Hand-carved construction verification

• Super 400 historical knowledge

• Factory Order Number analysis

• Comprehensive provenance documentation

Premium Valuation:

• 30-40% higher offers than typical guitar shops

• Immediate cash payment available

• Expert authentication included

• No consignment fees

• No waiting periods

White-Glove Service for Six-Figure Instruments:

• In-person evaluation for high-value guitars

• Secure transportation arrangements

• Complete discretion and professionalism

• Documentation and photography

• Full insurance during transaction

Our Advantage Over Other Options

Compared to Guitar Shops:

• Shops offer $60,000-$70,000 for $120,000 guitar (need 50% margin)

• Edgewater offers $85,000-$95,000 (30-40% more)

• Immediate payment vs. consignment wait

• Expert knowledge vs. general guitar shop

Compared to Online Sales:

• No listing fees, shipping risks, or fraud concerns

• No months-long selling process

• No payment holds or chargebacks

• Expert evaluation vs. uninformed buyers

Compared to Auction Houses:

• No 20-25% seller's fees

• Immediate payment vs. 60-90 day wait

• No minimum reserve concerns

• Private transaction vs. public auction

The Edgewater Process

Step 1: Initial Contact

• Call (440) 219-3607 or submit online inquiry

• Describe your 1960 Super 400CES

• Provide photos if available

• Preliminary valuation discussion

Step 2: Expert Evaluation

• In-person evaluation for six-figure instruments

• PAF pickup authentication

• Complete originality assessment

• Condition documentation

• Market analysis

Step 3: Premium Offer

• Fair market offer 30-40% above shop prices

• Clear explanation of valuation

• No-obligation offer

• Immediate decision timeframe

Step 4: Immediate Payment

• Cash, certified check, or wire transfer

• Same-day payment available

• Secure transaction

• Complete documentation

Service Area

Primary Region: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia

For High-Value Instruments: We travel nationwide for six-figure Super 400CES guitars

Related Resources

Gibson Authentication Tools

• Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Complete Gibson Super 400 Dating Guide

• Gibson PAF Pickup Authentication Guide

• Factory Order Number Reference

Additional Super 400 Resources

• How to Date Gibson Super 400 Guitars

• Gibson Super 400 vs. L-5CES Comparison

• Identifying Original PAF Pickups

• Super 400 Maintenance and Care

Recent Purchase: 1959 Super 400CES (Similar Model)

We recently acquired a 1959 Gibson Super 400CES in natural finish from an estate in Pittsburgh. The guitar featured all-original PAF pickups, gold hardware, and came with its original brown hardshell case. After conducting an on-site appraisal and authentication, we made an immediate cash offer of $127,000—exceeding the family's expectations by more than $45,000 compared to quotes from three local guitar shops.

The transaction demonstrated Edgewater's advantage: expert authentication, fair market valuation, and immediate payment that allowed the family to settle the estate without lengthy consignment periods. Our knowledge of PAF-era Super 400CES guitars ensured the sellers received maximum value for this investment-grade instrument.

The 1960 Gibson Super 400CES represents the ultimate intersection of hand-carved Gibson craftsmanship and PAF-era electronics. As the final year of Patent Applied For pickups on Gibson's ultimate jazz guitar, 1960 examples command six-figure prices and represent both supreme playing instruments and investment-grade collectibles.

If you own a 1960 Gibson Super 400CES, professional authentication and fair market valuation are essential. Edgewater Guitars specializes in PAF-era Gibson guitars and offers premium valuations 30-40% above typical guitar shop offers.

Contact Edgewater Guitars today at (440) 219-3607 for expert 1960 Super 400CES authentication and premium valuation.

Gavin Coe, Vintage Guitar Specialist
Edgewater Guitars - Premium Vintage Guitar Buyer
Serving Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia