DATE :
Monday, June 9, 2025
1964 Gibson SG Junior in Polaris White: The Pre-1965 Single-Pickup Legend
1964 Gibson SG Junior in Polaris White: The Pre-1965 Single-Pickup Legend
Why the 1964 SG Junior in Polaris White Matters
The 1964 Gibson SG Junior represents the pinnacle of Gibson's pre-1965 era, widely considered one of the best years of Gibson electric instruments in the 1960s. This specific year marked the last full year of wide-nut construction on many of their guitar lines. The Polaris White finish adds exceptional rarity and visual appeal to what many consider the ultimate single-pickup rock machine.
What makes 1964 special:
The coveted "Pre-1965" designation with wide nut construction at 1 11/16"
Peak manufacturing quality before the corporate changes of the mid-1960s
The SG TV model (SG Junior in Polaris White) was only offered in Gibson's price list from 1962 until 1968
Original vintage pricing at $169.50 in 1964, making it an affordable professional instrument
The perfect balance of simplicity and power that defined rock and roll rebellion
The Polaris White finish was Gibson's elegant alternative to the standard Cherry finish, creating what collectors often call the "TV model" - often referred to as an SG Junior in Polaris White finish. This rare finish represents a fraction of total SG Junior production, making surviving examples highly sought after by collectors and players alike.
Historical Context: Gibson's Golden Era Single-Pickup Revolution
In 1964, Gibson was at the height of its manufacturing excellence in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The SG Junior was introduced by Gibson in 1961 as the newly redesigned Les Paul Junior featuring a new thin, double cutaway body in line with the entire new Les Paul range. Notably in mid-1963 the Junior would lose its Les Paul designation and was renamed the SG Junior.
The 1964 model year represented the culmination of Gibson's learning curve with the SG body design. By this point, the company had perfected the construction techniques while still maintaining the hand-crafted quality that would begin to decline in subsequent years. The SG Junior sold well, being the biggest selling SG guitar of the 1960s, and the second best selling solid-body after the Melody Maker. In total 18997 guitars shipped between 1961 and 1970, with 1965, and then 1964 the peak years.
Notable musicians were already discovering the raw power of single-pickup SG Juniors during this era. Notable SG Players: Tony Iommi, Angus Young, Derek Trucks, Jeff Tweedy would later make these instruments legendary, but their foundation was built on the exceptional quality of guitars like this 1964 model.
Current Market Value (2025 Update)
Polaris White Premium: The rare Polaris White finish typically commands a 15-25% premium over Cherry finish examples from the same year.
Key Value Factors:
Wide Nut Originality: The 1 11/16" wide nut is essential for proper 1964 identification
Original P-90 Pickup: All-original dogear P-90 pickups significantly impact value
Finish Integrity: The finish shows typical heavy checking common to the white finish - natural aging vs. damage
Hardware Originality: Original Kluson tuners, knobs, and wraparound bridge add substantial value
Case: Original cardboard alligator case adds 10-15% to total value
Recent Market Activity: Gibson sg junior 1964 - See the best prices from $3,899.99 represents current market positioning for quality examples.
Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for exceptional vintage Gibson examples, especially rare finishes like Polaris White.
Detailed Identification Guide for 1964 SG Junior
Serial Number Information
Gibson's 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. 1964 SG Juniors typically fall within the serial number range of approximately 175,000 to 250,000, though SG serial numbers pre-1975 are notorious for being difficult to use to date Gibson guitars. They are style specific, not necessarily consecutive, and repeated multiple times throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Potentiometer Code Dating
The most reliable dating method involves checking potentiometer codes. The code above is for a potentiometer made by CTS (137) during the 22nd week of 1964. Look for codes like:
CTS Codes: 137 64XX (where XX represents the week)
Centralab Codes: 304 64XX
Physical Identification Features
Neck Specifications:
Nut width = 1 11/16" (wide nut) - critical for 1964 identification
The neck profile leans a bit more into the '63 camp than the fatter, fuller carve often found in 1964, with a shallower profile at the first fret that tapers up to a meatier feel around frets 10-12
neck depth at the first fret = .82", depth at 12th = 1.03"
Polaris White Finish Identification:
Inside the control cavity is what appears to be the typical yellowed Polaris white paint
the top edge of the fretboard has black fret markers - unique to white finish models
The finish shows typical heavy checking common to the white finish
Hardware and Components:
Single dogear P-90 pickup in bridge position
Gibson used what collectors call reflector knobs until 1967 - black with silver centers
Kluson strip tuners with white plastic oval buttons
simple wrap over bridge with stop tailpiece
Gibson Vibrola tailpiece (when optionally equipped)
Detailed Physical Specifications
Body Construction
Material: solid Honduran Mahogany body with the afore mentioned double cutaway body
Weight: Weight = 6 lbs 13oz typical range 6.5-7.5 lbs
Finish: Polaris White nitrocellulose lacquer
Body Style: Slim double-cutaway with beveled edges
Neck Details
Material: one piece Honduran Mahogany set neck
Profile: Medium "C" shape, comfortable for most hand sizes
Scale Length: 24 3/4" (Gibson standard)
Fingerboard: dot inlayed rosewood fingerboard - Brazilian rosewood on 1964 models
Frets: Original narrow vintage frets (often replaced on player guitars)
Electronics Specifications
Pickup: Single dogear P-90 in bridge position
Resistance: Typically 7.5-8.5k ohms for original P-90s
Controls: Master volume and tone
Wiring: Vintage cloth-covered wire with period-correct capacitors
Output Jack: Side-mounted 1/4" jack
Hardware
Tuners: Kluson Deluxe strip tuners (3-on-a-side)
Bridge: Lightning bar wraparound bridge/tailpiece combination
Knobs: Black "reflector" style with silver centers
Strap Buttons: Black plastic, period-correct style
Tonal Characteristics: The P-90 Powerhouse
The 1964 SG Junior's sonic signature comes from its simplicity and the legendary P-90 pickup. The great thing about single pick up Gibsons is that you don't have to worry about balancing pickups. The guitar is simple and immediate and gives screaming leads form the P90.
Sound Profile:
Clean Tones: Bright, articulate attack with natural compression
Driven Tones: The original P90 pickup screams like a stabbed rat when pushed, but sounds sweet when caressed
Midrange Focus: distinct punchy mid-range bark and tons of versatility
Dynamic Response: Exceptional touch sensitivity and volume knob cleanup
Why It Sounds Special:
Weighing a featherweight 5.7lbs it feels lively and resonant acoustically, plugged in the P-90 will go from a roar to a whisper with a turn of the volume control
The all-mahogany construction provides natural compression and sustain
The lightweight body enhances acoustic resonance and responsiveness
Vintage electronics create warmth and musical distortion characteristics
Common Issues & Modifications
Typical Problems Found
Pickguard Issues: The are a couple of pickguard cracks where the material had shrunken and pulled away from the screws - a very common issue on 60s Gibsons
Input Jack Problems: There's evidence of some input jack repair (somewhat common with these)
Finish Checking: The finish shows typical heavy checking common to the white finish - normal aging
Neck Wear: Original frets often show wear, especially in the first few positions
Common Modifications That Affect Value
Tuner Replacements: Decades ago, the original Kluson strip tuners were replaced with Schaller machines - reduces value significantly
Bridge Modifications: the original lightning bar wraparound tailpiece was tossed for Leo Quan Badass bridge
Refinishing: Complete refinishes destroy collector value but may improve player appeal
Electronics Changes: Non-original wiring harnesses and potentiometers reduce authenticity
Authenticity Warning Signs
If the neck measures less than 1 11/16" at the nut then it was made after 1964
Incorrect serial number stamps or placement
Modern potentiometer codes indicating replacement electronics
Non-period hardware like modern tuners or bridges
Why Players and Collectors Value the 1964 SG Junior
Playing Characteristics
This guitar is of course is amazing. Thinner neck lightweight, a classic guitar that you can play so easily. These were the best years in my.opinion. The 1964 SG Junior offers:
Comfort: It is lovely and light and very elegant. The only downside is that it is a little neck heavy
Playability: The full neck feels fantastic and delivers Impressive resonance with a great sonic connection throughout
Simplicity: No pickup switching or complex controls - pure, immediate tone
Access: Double cutaway design allows easy reach to all 22 frets
Collector Appeal
Historical Significance: Represents Gibson's pre-corporate era craftsmanship
Rarity: Polaris White finish produced in much smaller quantities than Cherry
Investment Potential: In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, Gibson sg junior 1964 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range
Famous Users: Association with legendary players like Tony Iommi and Angus Young
Musical Heritage
As favored by legends such as Tony Iommi and Angus Young, the SG Junior 1964 is more than just an instrument—it's a piece of rock history. This model helped define the sound of hard rock, blues, and punk music for generations.
Selling Your 1964 SG Junior in Polaris White
If you own a 1964 Gibson SG Junior in the rare Polaris White finish, you possess a truly special piece of guitar history. These instruments represent both exceptional player appeal and significant collector value.
Why Choose Edgewater Guitars:
Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops for rare vintage Gibson instruments
Expert Authentication: Our team specializes in identifying rare finishes and original components
Immediate Cash Offers: No waiting periods or consignment fees
Specialized Knowledge: We understand the specific value factors of rare Polaris White finishes
Comprehensive Service: Free authentication, professional photography, and secure transactions
The Edgewater Advantage for Rare Finishes: Unlike general music stores that may not recognize the premium value of a Polaris White finish, Edgewater Guitars has the specialized knowledge to properly evaluate and price rare Gibson variants. We work with collectors specifically seeking these exceptional instruments.
Ready to sell your vintage Gibson? Contact us for your free, expert valuation:
Phone: (440) 219-3607
Online Quote: Get started with our vintage Gibson evaluation form
Email: Send photos and details for preliminary assessment
Related Resources for Gibson SG Identification
Essential Dating Tools
Other Valuable 1964 Gibson Models
Regional Selling Guides
Recent Purchase: 1964 SG Junior Success Story
Case Study: Cleveland Collection Acquisition
We recently had the privilege of purchasing a 1964 SG Junior in Polaris White from a longtime collector in the Cleveland area. The guitar had been in the same family since 1967 and retained all original components including the rare original "alligator" cardboard case.
The Edgewater Experience:
On-site Evaluation: We traveled to the seller's home for professional assessment
Expert Authentication: Confirmed all original components and finish authenticity
Premium Offer: Our cash offer exceeded the seller's expectations by more than $1,500 compared to local shop quotes
Same-Day Transaction: Complete purchase and payment in one visit
Seller Testimonial: "I had no idea about the rarity of the Polaris White finish until Edgewater explained the market. Their knowledge and fair pricing made selling a pleasure. The difference in their offer compared to local shops was remarkable."
This transaction demonstrates our commitment to recognizing and properly valuing rare Gibson variants that general dealers might undervalue.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 1964 SG Junior
The 1964 Gibson SG Junior in Polaris White represents a perfect intersection of playability, rarity, and rock and roll history. The Gibson SG Junior 1964 is a testament to simplicity meeting legendary performance, embodying the raw, rebellious spirit of rock 'n' roll.
Whether you're a player seeking that perfect P-90 bark or a collector looking for a rare piece of Gibson history, the 1964 SG Junior in Polaris White delivers on every level. These instruments continue to appreciate in value while providing unmatched musical satisfaction.
Ready to explore selling your vintage Gibson? Edgewater Guitars serves collectors and players throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments and provide the expertise needed to properly evaluate rare finishes and original components.
Contact Edgewater Guitars today:
Call (440) 219-3607 for immediate assistance
Complete our online vintage guitar evaluation form
Email us photos and details for preliminary assessment
Our 25+ years of vintage guitar expertise ensures you receive fair market value for your treasured instrument, with the convenience and security you deserve.
About the Author: This comprehensive guide was prepared by Edgewater Guitars' vintage instrument specialists, drawing on decades of experience in Gibson guitar authentication, dating, and valuation. We maintain one of the Midwest's most extensive databases of vintage Gibson specifications and market values.
