DATE :
Sunday, April 6, 2025
1966 Gibson Firebird V: The Non-Reverse Revolution That Changed Everything
1966 Gibson Firebird V: The Non-Reverse Revolution That Changed Everything
Why the 1966 Firebird V Matters
The 1966 Gibson Firebird V represents a pivotal moment in Gibson's electric guitar history—the year that marked the height of the "non-reverse" Firebird era. These instruments were Gibson's response to the lukewarm reception of the original reverse-body Firebirds and legal pressure from Fender regarding design similarities. The result was a guitar that, while commercially unsuccessful at the time, has become one of the most distinctive and sought-after vintage Gibson electrics today.
What makes 1966 special:
Peak production year for non-reverse Firebirds with only 342 Firebird V models shipped
Transitional hardware features including both older gold metal-capped knobs and newer "witch hat" style knobs
Final year before significant cost-cutting measures affected build quality
Last year of consistent Kluson Deluxe tuner strips before cheaper alternatives appeared
Built during Gibson's Kalamazoo golden era before the factory closure
The 1966 Firebird V showcases Gibson's attempt to create a more conventional yet equally striking alternative to their radical reverse-body design. With its sleek mahogany body, distinctive mini-humbucking pickups, and elegant Lyre Vibrola tailpiece, the '66 represents the pinnacle of the non-reverse Firebird concept.
Historical Context: Gibson's Bold Experiment
The Birth of the Non-Reverse Design
In summer 1965, Gibson introduced the "non-reverse" Firebird series after the original reverse-body models failed to achieve expected sales success. The radical 1963-1965 reverse Firebirds, designed by automotive stylist Ray Dietrich, were neck-through instruments with an unconventional body shape that placed the longer horn on the treble side. While innovative, these guitars proved difficult and expensive to manufacture.
The non-reverse Firebirds represented a complete redesign philosophy. Gibson engineers flipped the body shape to a more traditional configuration, switched from neck-through to set-neck construction, and simplified many production aspects. This allowed Gibson to offer the Firebird aesthetic at significantly lower prices—the 1966 Firebird V listed for $289.50 compared to the reverse model's higher cost.
1966: The Peak Year
1966 marked the second and most successful year of non-reverse Firebird production, though "successful" is relative—Gibson shipped only 342 Firebird V models that year. Production had ramped up from the mid-1965 introduction, but sales remained disappointing compared to Gibson's other models. The SG line, for example, outsold Firebirds by a factor of ten during the same period.
Notable artists using Firebirds in 1966:
Johnny Winter was beginning to establish his reputation with a Firebird V
Keith Richards experimented with various Gibson models including Firebirds
Several jazz guitarists adopted the model despite its rock aesthetic
Key Value Factors:
Originality Premium: All-original examples command 40-60% premiums over modified instruments. Original Firebird pickguards are particularly important, as many have shrunk or been replaced.
Hardware Originality: Original Lyre Vibrola tailpieces, mini-humbucking pickups, and period-correct knobs significantly affect value. The transition from gold metal-capped knobs to witch hat knobs in 1966 creates interesting variations.
Condition Challenges: Many 1966 Firebirds suffer from pickguard shrinkage, headstock cracks, or jack area failures. Clean examples without these common issues bring substantial premiums.
Documentation Value: Original case, receipts, or provenance can add 10-15% to value.
Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium examples, recognizing the true rarity and desirability of these instruments.
Detailed Identification Guide
Serial Numbers
1966 Firebird V guitars typically have 6-digit serial numbers ranging from approximately 500000 to 600000, impressed into the back of the headstock. However, Gibson's serial numbering during this period was inconsistent, with numbers often reused or applied non-sequentially.
Potentiometer Codes
The most reliable dating method involves checking potentiometer codes. 1966 Firebird V guitars typically used CTS potentiometers with codes following this format:
137YYWW - where 137 = CTS manufacturer code, YY = year (65 or 66), WW = week
Common 1966 pot codes: 1376601 through 1376652 (weeks 1-52 of 1966)
Early 1966 examples may have late 1965 pot codes (1376540-1376552)
Key Visual Identifiers
Headstock Features:
Six-in-line tuning pegs on the left side (non-reverse style)
"Gibson" logo in pearl script without "The" prefix
No "Made in USA" stamp (added in 1970)
Thinner headstock profile compared to later models
Body Construction:
One-piece mahogany body with traditional double-cutaway shape
Set mahogany neck construction (not neck-through like reverse models)
Unbound rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays
24¾" scale length with 22 frets
Hardware Specifications:
Two mini-humbucking pickups with metal surrounds
Tune-O-Matic bridge with chrome plating
Long Lyre Vibrola tailpiece with distinctive bird engraving
Chrome-plated hardware throughout
Three-way toggle switch (some have slider switches)
Pickguard Details:
White three-ply pickguard with red Firebird logo
Common shrinkage issues at pickup rings and edges
Bird logo often shows wear but should be clearly visible
Transitional Features in 1966
The 1966 model year featured several transitional elements:
Early 1966: Gold metal-capped knobs (disappeared by 1967)
Late 1966: New "witch hat" style knobs
Tuners: Most had single Kluson Deluxe strips, but some received cheaper alternatives
Toggle Switch: Better examples have standard Switchcraft toggles rather than cheap sliders
Detailed Physical Specifications
Body Dimensions:
Overall Length: 43⅜ inches (110.2 cm)
Body Width: 13 7/16 inches (34.1 cm) at lower bout
Body Depth: 1⅜ inches (3.5 cm) at rim
Weight Range: 6.5-7.5 pounds (typical for mahogany construction)
Neck Specifications:
Scale Length: 24¾ inches (629 mm)
Nut Width: 1⅝ inches (41 mm)
Neck Profile: Medium C-shape, slimmer than reverse Firebirds
Fret Wire: Period-appropriate narrow/low wire
Fingerboard Radius: 12 inches
Neck Thickness: Approximately 0.76" at 1st fret, 0.93" at 12th fret
Electronics:
Pickups: Two Firebird mini-humbuckers with approximately 7-8k ohm resistance
Controls: Two volume, two tone, three-way toggle (or slider switch)
Wiring: Period-correct cloth-covered wire
Capacitors: Bumble bee style 0.022μf capacitors
Output Jack: Standard ¼" jack in lower side of body
Hardware Details:
Bridge: Chrome-plated Tune-O-Matic ABR-1
Tailpiece: Long Lyre Vibrola with bird engraving
Tuners: Kluson Deluxe single-strip or individual units
Strap Buttons: Period-correct chrome buttons
Case: Original black tolex rectangular hardshell case
Tonal Characteristics
The 1966 Sound Profile
The 1966 Firebird V produces a distinctive tonal character that sets it apart from other Gibson electrics of the era:
Pickup Response: The mini-humbucking pickups offer a unique blend of single-coil clarity and humbucker warmth. They're brighter and more articulate than full-size humbuckers but fuller than P-90s, with excellent note separation and harmonic complexity.
Body Resonance: The lightweight mahogany body with set-neck construction creates excellent sustain and resonance. The body's relatively thin profile contributes to a more focused, punchy tone compared to thicker-bodied Gibsons.
Electronics: The period-correct wiring harness and components create a warm, vintage signal path. The cloth-covered wire and bumble bee capacitors contribute to the guitar's distinctive filtering characteristics.
Tonal Comparisons:
vs. Les Paul: Brighter, more articulate, less midrange thickness
vs. SG: Similar brightness but more focused, less aggressive
vs. Reverse Firebird: Comparable pickups but different body resonance due to construction method
Notable Recordings:
While the non-reverse Firebird V didn't achieve the same recording prominence as reverse models, it appeared on various recordings throughout the late 1960s, particularly in blues and early rock contexts.
Common Issues & Modifications
Typical Problems Found with 1966 Firebird V:
Pickguard Shrinkage: The most common issue affecting nearly all surviving examples. The white pickguard material shrinks over time, pulling away from pickup rings and body edges. Original shrunken pickguards are preferred over replacements for authenticity.
Headstock Cracks: Less common than with reverse Firebirds but still a concern. Cracks typically develop behind the nut or near the string trees. Professional repairs are acceptable but affect value significantly.
Jack Failure: The side-mounted output jack can crack the body wood if subjected to stress. Look for cracks or repairs around the jack area.
Vibrola Problems: The long Lyre Vibrola can develop issues with springs, arm sockets, or pivot points. Original parts are increasingly rare and expensive.
Tuner Replacement: Many examples have had original Kluson tuners replaced with modern alternatives. Original tuners significantly affect authenticity and value.
Warning Signs of Issues:
Refinishing: Look for overspray in cavities, incorrect color aging, or filled nail holes. The sunburst finish should show natural aging patterns with the red pigments fading more than yellow/orange areas.
Pickup Replacement: Original Firebird mini-humbuckers have specific characteristics. Later mini-humbuckers from Les Paul Deluxe models are sometimes substituted but have different covers and internal construction.
Neck Repairs: Check for headstock breaks, neck resets, or truss rod issues. The set-neck construction makes major repairs more obvious than bolt-on necks.
Why Players and Collectors Value This Model
Playing Characteristics:
Ergonomics: The lightweight body and comfortable neck profile make the 1966 Firebird V exceptionally easy to play. The body shape provides excellent upper fret access while maintaining comfortable arm positioning.
Versatility: Despite its rock aesthetic, the Firebird V's tonal range extends from clean jazz tones to aggressive rock sounds. The pickup switching provides useful tonal variations.
Playability: The 24¾" scale and medium neck profile appeal to players accustomed to Gibson feel while offering something distinctive.
Collector Appeal:
Rarity: With only 342 shipped in 1966, these guitars are significantly rarer than most vintage Gibsons. The survival rate is lower due to construction vulnerabilities and the model's initial lack of appreciation.
Historical Significance: The non-reverse Firebirds represent an important chapter in Gibson's evolution, bridging the gap between the radical reverse models and later conventional designs.
Design Distinctiveness: The Firebird V's unique aesthetic—part space-age, part traditional—appeals to collectors seeking something different from standard Gibson designs.
Investment Potential:
Values have steadily increased as collectors recognize the model's rarity and distinctive character. The limited production numbers and relatively low survival rate suggest continued appreciation, particularly for clean, original examples.
Selling Your 1966 Gibson Firebird V
If you own a 1966 Gibson Firebird V, you're holding one of the rarer vintage Gibson electrics. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in accurately evaluating and fairly pricing these distinctive instruments.
Why Choose Edgewater for Your Firebird V:
Expert Authentication: Our team has extensive experience with vintage Firebird identification, including the subtle transitional features that distinguish 1966 models. We can accurately assess originality and condition factors that other buyers might miss.
Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops because we understand the true rarity and collector demand for these instruments. Many shops undervalue Firebirds due to lack of familiarity with the model.
Specialized Knowledge: We recognize the importance of original pickguards, period-correct hardware, and transitional features that significantly affect value. Our expertise ensures you receive accurate pricing for your specific instrument's characteristics.
Streamlined Process:
Initial evaluation via photos and detailed description
In-person appraisal for high-value instruments
Immediate cash offer based on current market conditions
Professional packaging and secure transaction handling
Comprehensive Service Area: We serve guitar owners throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia, traveling to you for premium instruments like 1966 Firebird Vs.
Ready to sell your vintage Gibson Firebird V? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation valuation or call us directly at (440) 219-3607.
Related Resources
Authentication and Dating Tools:
Additional Firebird Information:
Selling Resources:
Your 1966 Firebird V Deserves Expert Evaluation
The 1966 Gibson Firebird V represents one of the more distinctive chapters in Gibson's electric guitar history. With only 342 examples shipped that year and many succumbing to age-related issues, clean survivors are increasingly valuable and sought-after by collectors.
Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage Gibson guitars throughout the Midwest region. We understand the subtle details that make 1966 Firebird Vs special and have the expertise to properly evaluate transitional features, original hardware, and condition factors that significantly affect value.
Whether you're downsizing a collection, settling an estate, or simply ready to pass your Firebird V to its next caretaker, we provide the knowledge, professionalism, and fair pricing you deserve.
Contact Edgewater Guitars today:
Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Online: Get Your Free Valuation
Serving guitar owners throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia with on-site evaluations for premium vintage instruments.
About the Author: This guide was prepared by the vintage guitar specialists at Edgewater Guitars, with over 20 years of combined experience in Gibson electric guitar authentication, evaluation, and sales. Our team has handled hundreds of vintage Firebird guitars and maintains current market data to ensure accurate valuations for sellers throughout the Midwest region.
