1963 Gibson SG Standard: The Birth of Rock's Most Rebellious Guitar

Why the 1963 SG Standard Matters

The 1963 Gibson SG Standard represents a pivotal moment in electric guitar history—the year when Gibson finally abandoned the "Les Paul" name and fully embraced the SG (Solid Guitar) as its own distinct model. This was the birth year of rock's most rebellious-looking guitar, with its devil's horns double cutaway design that would soon become synonymous with heavy rock and blues.

What makes 1963 particularly special:

• First year of the true "SG" identity: By late 1963, Gibson had completely dropped the Les Paul designation, making these instruments the first true SG Standards

• Peak of early SG construction quality: Three years into production, Gibson had perfected the SG's unique construction techniques

• Original PAF humbuckers: Many early 1963 examples still featured the coveted Patent Applied For pickups before transitioning to patent number pickups

• Pre-large pickguard era: The smaller, more elegant pickguard design that collectors prefer over later "large guard" versions

• Authentic vintage neck profile: The slim, fast neck that made the SG a favorite among lead guitarists

The 1963 SG Standard sits at the crossroads of guitar history—built during Gibson's golden era of manufacturing excellence, yet representing the bold, modern design that would define rock music for decades to come.

Historical Context: Gibson's Bold Gamble

In 1963, Gibson was making a crucial transition. The original Les Paul model had been discontinued in 1961 due to poor sales, and the SG design was Gibson's attempt to modernize their solidbody guitar line. Initially marketed as the "Les Paul SG," the relationship with Les Paul himself had become strained over design disagreements.

By 1963, several important developments occurred:

• The Les Paul name was officially dropped: Gibson committed fully to the SG designation

• Rock music was emerging: Young guitarists were gravitating toward the SG's aggressive, modern appearance

• British Invasion influence: UK musicians were beginning to discover and champion American electric guitars

• Manufacturing refinements: Three years of production had allowed Gibson to perfect the SG's unique construction challenges

Notable artists using SG Standards during this period included:

• Robbie Krieger of The Doors was using early SGs

• Pete Townshend of The Who began experimenting with SGs

• Blues musicians like Freddie King were adopting the SG for its sustain and tone

The 1963 SG Standard represents Gibson's commitment to innovation during an era when many manufacturers were playing it safe. This boldness would soon pay off as rock music exploded in popularity.

Current Market Value: 1963 SG Standard (2025 Update)

The 1963 Gibson SG Standard has experienced steady appreciation over the past decade, with particularly strong growth in the last five years as collectors recognize the historical significance of this transitional year.

Key Value Factors:

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

• PAF pickups: Early 1963 examples with original PAF humbuckers can add $3,000-5,000 to value

• Neck condition: The SG's notorious headstock fragility makes crack-free necks especially valuable

• Hardware originality: Original Kluson tuners, Tune-o-matic bridge, and vibrola significantly impact value

• Case and documentation: Original brown case and any documentation can add 10-15% to overall value

Recent market research indicates that 1960s Gibson SGs can range in value from $3,000 to $17,000, with 1963 examples typically falling in the upper portion of this range due to their historical significance.

Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium 1963 SG Standards, especially all-original examples with documentation.

Detailed Identification Guide for 1963 SG Standards

Serial Number Identification

For solid body electric guitars like the SG made between 1961 and 1963, the first digit indicates the year of manufacture. The 1963 Gibson SG Standard will have serial numbers beginning with "3" followed by 4-5 additional digits.

1963 Serial Number Ranges:

• Typical range: 300000-399999

• Most common: 310000-380000

• The 6 digit die stamped serial numbers with NO Made In USA stamp are typically found on the back of the headstock of Gibson guitars made from 1963 - 1969

Factory Order Numbers (FON)

In addition to serial numbers, 1963 SGs have Factory Order Numbers stamped in the neck pocket or control cavity:

• Format: Usually 4-5 digits

• Location: Inside neck pocket (visible when neck is removed)

• Cross-reference: Should align with the guitar's other dating features

Neck Dating

The most reliable identifier is the stamped date on the neck heel:

• Format: Month-day-year (e.g., "JAN 15 63" or "MAR 3 63")

• Location: Heel of neck, visible when removed from body

• Validation: Should correspond with serial number dating

Potentiometer Codes for 1963

1963 SG Standards typically used CTS (Chicago Telephone Supply) potentiometers:

• CTS Code: 137 (manufacturer code)

• Date Code: 63XX (where XX = week of manufacture)

• Example: 1376310 = CTS pot from 10th week of 1963

• Alternative: Some used Centralab pots with "134" manufacturer code

Visual Identification Features

Headstock and Logo:

• Gibson logo in gold with crown above

• "Les Paul" name completely absent (key identifier for 1963)

• Patent numbers below logo (if present)

• No "Made in USA" stamp

Body Characteristics:

• Double cutaway with sharp "devil horns"

• Mahogany body with beveled edges

• Cherry red finish standard (custom colors rare)

• Smaller pickguard compared to post-1966 models

Hardware Specifications:

• Kluson Deluxe tuners with white plastic buttons

• Gibson Tune-o-matic bridge (early ABR-1 style)

• Sideways vibrola (most common) or stop tailpiece

• Nickel-plated hardware throughout

Pickup Identification

Early 1963 (January-April):

• PAF Humbuckers: Patent Applied For stickers on pickup bases

• Resistance: Typically 7.5-8.5k ohms

• Construction: Unpotted with early PAF characteristics

Late 1963 (May-December):

• Patent Number Pickups: "Patent No. 2,737,842" embossed on pickup bases

• Transition period: Some guitars have one PAF, one patent number pickup

• Resistance: Similar range but slightly more consistent

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Dimensions and Weight

• Body Length: 17 inches

• Body Width: 13 inches at lower bout

• Body Thickness: 1.5 inches

• Weight Range: 6.5-8.0 lbs (lighter than Les Pauls due to double cutaway)

• Wood: Solid mahogany body with beveled edges

Neck Specifications for 1963

• Profile: Slim taper (nicknamed "fast neck")

• Nut Width: 1-11/16 inches

• Scale Length: 24.75 inches

• Fretboard: Rosewood with pearl trapezoid inlays

• Frets: Original small wire frets (many have been replaced)

• Neck Joint: Set neck with long tenon construction

Electronics and Controls

• Pickup Configuration: Two humbucking pickups

• Controls: Two volume, two tone, three-way toggle switch

• Electronics Cavity: Routed from back, access via control cavity cover

• Wiring: Original cloth-covered wire with paper-in-oil capacitors

• Output Jack: Side-mounted jack on lower treble bout

Hardware Details

• Bridge: Tune-o-matic (ABR-1 with wire saddles)

• Tailpiece: Sideways Maestro vibrola (most common) or stop tailpiece

• Tuners: Kluson Deluxe with 15:1 ratio and white plastic buttons

• Strap Buttons: Original Gibson strap buttons (often replaced)

Tonal Characteristics of the 1963 SG Standard

The 1963 SG Standard offers a distinctive tonal profile that differs significantly from its Les Paul predecessors:

Fundamental Sound Character

• Attack: Sharp, immediate response due to the thinner mahogany body

• Sustain: Excellent sustain characteristics, especially in the midrange

• Resonance: The double cutaway design allows the body to vibrate more freely

• Output: Hot output from the humbucking pickups provides natural overdrive

Pickup Position Characteristics

Neck Position (Rhythm):

• Warm, woody tone with excellent note definition

• Perfect for jazz and blues rhythm work

• Less muddy than Les Paul neck pickups due to body construction

Bridge Position (Treble):

• Cutting, aggressive tone that sits well in a mix

• Excellent for lead work and power chords

• The mahogany body warms the natural brightness

Middle Position:

• Unique hollow, scooped sound

• Popular for rhythm work and clean tones

• Distinctive "SG sound" that differs from other Gibson models

Comparison to Other Models

Compared to 1963 Les Paul reissues or other Gibson models:

• More aggressive than Les Pauls due to thinner body

• More sustain than ES-335s due to solid body construction

• Brighter overall than other mahogany Gibson guitars

• More feedback-prone due to body resonance (advantage for rock players)

Common Issues and Modifications Found in 1963 SG Standards

Typical Problems with 1963 SGs

Headstock Breaks:

• The SG's angled headstock and narrow neck joint make it prone to breaks

• Proper repairs maintain most of the value

• Clean breaks with good repairs are preferable to no breaks with poor touch-ups

Neck Joint Issues:

• Long tenon construction generally stable

• Occasional neck resets needed due to string tension

• Check for gaps between neck and body

Electronics Problems:

• Original pots and capacitors often need replacement

• Toggle switches frequently require cleaning or replacement

• Output jacks commonly loose due to side-mount design

Value-Affecting Modifications

Replacement Tuners:

• Grover tuners commonly added (reduces value 15-20%)

• Original Klusons increasingly valuable

• Check for additional screw holes in headstock

Pickup Replacements:

• Original PAFs extremely valuable ($2,000-4,000 each)

• Patent number pickups also desirable ($800-1,500 each)

• Modern replacements significantly impact value

Hardware Changes:

• Bigsby vibrato installations (common modification)

• Stop tailpiece conversions from vibrola

• Bridge and tailpiece upgrades

Finish and Refinish Issues

Natural Aging:

• Cherry finish fades to natural mahogany color over time

• UV exposure creates attractive fade patterns

• Natural checking and wear actually adds character

Refinish Warning Signs:

• Overspray in control cavities or neck pocket

• Inconsistent color aging patterns

• Thick, modern-looking finish

• Missing original serial numbers or stamps

Authentication Red Flags

Common Counterfeit Issues:

• Fake PAF pickups (check for correct construction details)

• Added "Les Paul" markings (1963s should have none)

• Wrong serial number formats

• Incorrect hardware for the period

• Modern wiring harnesses passed off as original

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1963 SG Standard

Playing Characteristics

Comfort and Playability:

• Lighter weight than Les Pauls reduces shoulder strain

• Double cutaway provides excellent upper fret access

• Slim neck profile appeals to lead guitarists

• Excellent balance when played standing

Versatility:

• Equally at home with clean jazz tones and overdriven rock

• Responds well to different amplifiers and effects

• The bridge pickup cuts through dense mixes

• Neck pickup provides warmth without muddiness

Collector Appeal Factors

Historical Significance:

• First year of true "SG" identity

• Transitional features make each guitar unique

• Bridge between classic and modern Gibson designs

• Early adoption by influential rock musicians

Investment Potential:

• Steady appreciation over past 20 years

• Limited production numbers increase rarity

• Growing recognition of SG's importance in rock history

• Strong demand from both players and collectors

Aesthetic Appeal:

• Iconic "devil's horns" body shape

• Distinctive cherry red finish that ages beautifully

• Elegant smaller pickguard design

• Classic Gibson appointments and craftsmanship

Cultural Impact

The 1963 SG Standard represents the moment when electric guitar design embraced the future. While other manufacturers were creating more conservative instruments, Gibson's SG pointed toward the aggressive, rebellious spirit that would define rock music. This cultural significance, combined with excellent playing characteristics and beautiful aesthetics, ensures continued strong demand.

Selling Your 1963 Gibson SG Standard

If you own a 1963 Gibson SG Standard, you possess a significant piece of guitar history. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in providing fair market valuations for vintage Gibson instruments, with particular expertise in early SG models.

Why Choose Edgewater for Your 1963 SG

Premium Valuations:

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

• Our deep knowledge of 1963 SG variations ensures accurate pricing

• We recognize and compensate for rare features like original PAF pickups

• Custom colors and documented provenance receive appropriate premiums

Expert Authentication:

• Our team can definitively authenticate 1963 SG Standards

• We provide detailed condition reports and originality assessments

• Photo documentation of key identification features

• Written authentication certificates for high-value instruments

Streamlined Process:

• Free initial evaluation via photos and detailed description

• In-person appraisals for high-value instruments throughout Ohio and neighboring states

• Immediate cash offers with no waiting periods

• All paperwork and logistics handled professionally

Zero-Hassle Transaction:

• No consignment fees or extended waiting periods

• Secure, insured transportation for valuable instruments

• Discretion and professionalism throughout the process

• References available from satisfied sellers

Getting Started

Ready to explore the value of your 1963 Gibson SG Standard? Contact Edgewater Guitars today:

Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: Through our secure quote form
Service Area: Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia

We travel to you for high-value vintage instruments, ensuring security and convenience throughout the selling process.

Related Authentication Resources

For owners researching their 1963 Gibson SG Standard, these resources provide additional verification tools:

Gibson Serial Number Resources

• Complete Gibson Serial Number Lookup Guide

• How to Date Gibson SG Guitars

• Gibson Factory Order Number (FON) Cross-Reference Charts

Related Model Guides

• 1962 Gibson SG Standard: Features and value comparison

• 1964 Gibson SG Standard: Changes in construction and specifications

• Early Les Paul SG Models (1961-1962): Transitional features and identification

• SG Special vs Standard: Understanding model differences and values

Authentication Tools

• PAF Pickup Identification Guide

• Original Gibson Hardware Specifications

• 1963 Gibson Case and Documentation Guide

• Common Modification and Refinish Detection

Recent Purchase: 1963 SG Standard Success Story

We recently had the pleasure of purchasing a beautiful 1963 Gibson SG Standard in Cherry finish from a collector in Toledo, Ohio. This particular instrument retained its original PAF pickups, Kluson tuners, and Maestro vibrola—exactly the kind of all-original example that serious collectors seek.

The Story: The seller had inherited the guitar from his father, who purchased it new in 1963 from a music store in Detroit. It had been stored carefully for decades and retained all original parts and finish. After receiving multiple quotes from local shops ranging from $8,000-10,000, he contacted Edgewater Guitars.

Our Process:

• Initial photo evaluation confirmed originality and excellent condition

• In-person appraisal at the seller's home verified all features

• Complete transaction within 48 hours

Why We Paid More: Our extensive knowledge of 1963 SG variations allowed us to recognize the premium value of this specific example:

• Original PAF pickups (worth $4,000 alone)

• Crack-free neck with perfect headstock

• All original hardware including rare original case

• Beautiful natural fade pattern on the cherry finish

• Complete documentation of ownership history

This transaction demonstrates why specialized knowledge matters when selling vintage guitars. Local shops often cannot recognize or properly value the subtle features that make certain instruments exceptional.

Edgewater Guitars: Your Vintage SG Specialists

Edgewater Guitars serves guitar owners throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia with specialized knowledge in vintage Gibson instruments. Our team combines decades of experience with current market knowledge to ensure fair, accurate valuations for significant vintage guitars like the 1963 SG Standard.

Whether you're curious about your guitar's value, ready to sell, or need expert authentication services, we provide the knowledge and professionalism that vintage guitar owners deserve.

Contact us today for your free, no-obligation evaluation:
(440) 219-3607

Edgewater Guitars - Where vintage guitar expertise meets fair market value.