Gibson ES-335, ES-345, and ES-355: Complete Year-by-Year Guide (1958-1966)

Understanding Gibson's Revolutionary Semi-Hollow Trio

In 1958, Gibson introduced a revolutionary concept that would change electric guitar design forever: the semi-hollow body with center block construction. The ES-335, ES-345, and ES-355 represented three distinct price points and feature sets, all built around the same innovative design that combined the warmth of a hollow body with the feedback resistance of a solid body.

This comprehensive guide explores the differences between these three iconic models and provides year-by-year specifications from 1958-1966, covering the most collectible period of production. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or authenticate a vintage Gibson semi-hollow, understanding these yearly variations is crucial for proper identification and valuation.

Why This Era Matters:

• 1958-1966 represents the "golden era" of Gibson semi-hollow production

• Pre-CBS Gibson quality at its peak (1958-1965)

• PAF pickups (1958-1962) are among the most sought-after in guitar history

• Early patent number pickups (1962-1965) also highly collectible

• Transitional features throughout this period make authentication complex

• Understanding yearly variations critical for avoiding counterfeits and reproductions

The Basic Differences: ES-335 vs. ES-345 vs. ES-355

Before diving into year-by-year details, let's establish the fundamental differences between these three models:

ES-335TD (Thinline Double Pickup)

Position: Entry-level model in the semi-hollow line
Price Point: Most affordable of the three
Key Features:

• Dot inlays (1958-1962) or block inlays (1962-1966)

• Standard nickel hardware

• Single output jack (mono)

• No Varitone switch

• Unbound f-holes (most years)

• Crown headstock inlay

• Sunburst, natural, or cherry finish

ES-345TD (Stereo/Varitone)

Position: Mid-level model with advanced electronics
Price Point: Middle pricing tier
Key Features:

• Split-parallelogram inlays (distinctive identifier)

• Stereo output with two output jacks (can run in mono)

• 6-position Varitone switch (tone filter/choke)

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes (most years)

• Split-diamond headstock inlay

• Sunburst, natural, or cherry finish

ES-355TD (Top of the Line)

Position: Premium flagship model
Price Point: Highest tier
Key Features:

• Block inlays (early) or split-block inlays

• Ebony fingerboard (vs. rosewood on 335/345)

• Multi-ply binding throughout (body, neck, headstock, f-holes)

• Gold hardware

• Stereo output (most examples)

• Varitone switch (most examples, but not all)

• Split-diamond headstock inlay

• Bigsby vibrato common

• Cherry, natural, or walnut finish

Year-by-Year Specifications (1958-1966)

1958: The Revolutionary First Year

1958 ES-335TD - The Original

Serial Numbers: A-28xxx to A-32xxx range
Production: Introduced mid-1958 (April-May)
Estimated Production: Approximately 200 units (very rare first year)

Distinctive 1958 Features:

• Dot inlays in rosewood fingerboard

• PAF humbucking pickups (Patent Applied For stickers)

• Long pickguard extending below bridge pickup

• Mickey Mouse ear cutaways (rounded, symmetrical)

• Thin body: 1-5/8" depth

• Kluson Deluxe tuners with single-line, single-ring design

• ABR-1 bridge with nylon saddles (early) or metal saddles (later)

• Stop tailpiece (early) or stud tailpiece (standard)

• Unbound f-holes

• Natural or sunburst finish (cherry not yet available)

• Orange label inside body

• Reflector knobs (black reflector caps)

1958-Specific Details:

• Very early examples may have longer neck tenon

• Neck profile: chunky late-'50s profile

• Fingerboard radius: approximately 12"

• Nut width: 1-11/16"

• Body wood: Laminated maple top, back, and sides with solid maple center block

• Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard

• Weight: Typically 8-9 lbs

Why 1958 ES-335s Are So Collectible:

• First year production (extreme rarity)

• PAF pickups in prime condition

• Longest neck tenon for best tone transfer

• Natural finish examples especially rare

• Long pickguard highly distinctive

• Purest expression of the original design

1958 ES-355TD - The Fancy First Year

Serial Numbers: A-28xxx to A-32xxx range
Production: Introduced late 1958 (approximately September-December)
Estimated Production: Approximately 50-75 units (extremely rare)

Distinctive 1958 ES-355 Features:

• Block inlays in ebony fingerboard (not split-block yet)

• PAF humbucking pickups

• Multi-ply binding: white/black/white on body, neck, and f-holes

• Gold hardware throughout

• Split-diamond headstock inlay in pearl

• Bigsby vibrato very common (factory option)

• Stop tailpiece on non-Bigsby examples

• Stereo wiring (two output jacks) on most examples

• Mono wiring on some early examples (extremely rare and valuable)

• No Varitone in 1958 (Varitone introduced 1959)

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural finish rare and valuable

• Ebony fingerboard (vs. rosewood on 335)

1958 ES-355 Specific Details:

• Some very early examples may have same long pickguard as 335

• Most have standard shorter pickguard

• Extremely ornate binding work

• Higher-grade maple for laminated top/back

• Hand-selected woods for premium appearance

Why 1958 ES-355s Are Highly Sought:

• Extremely rare first year production

• No Varitone (cleaner electronics, preferred by many)

• PAF pickups

• Finest Gibson craftsmanship

• Mono versions especially rare

Note: The ES-345 was NOT produced in 1958. It debuted in 1959.

1959: Refinement and Expansion

1959 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: A-32xxx to A-36xxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 500-700 units

1959 ES-335 Features:

• Dot inlays continue

• PAF pickups (prime year for PAF tone)

• Long pickguard still standard

• Mickey Mouse ears continue

• Cherry finish introduced and becomes very popular

• Natural finish continues

• Sunburst finish continues

• Reflector knobs or early bonnet knobs (transitional)

• Single-line Kluson tuners with single ring

• ABR-1 bridge with retaining wire now standard

• Orange label inside

1959 Changes:

• Pickguard begins transition to shorter version (mid-1959)

• Some examples with short pickguard (above bridge only)

• Binding quality improves over 1958

• Manufacturing consistency improves

• Neck profile remains chunky but varies by individual guitar

Why 1959 335s Are Highly Collectible:

• Still rare (low production numbers)

• Prime PAF year

• Transition features (pickguard changes)

• Introduction of cherry finish

• Excellent build quality

• Natural finish examples command premium

1959 ES-345TD - The Introduction

Serial Numbers: A-32xxx to A-36xxx range
Production: Introduced early 1959
Estimated Production: Approximately 150-250 units (first year)

1959 ES-345 Debut Features:

• Split-parallelogram inlays (distinctive identifier that sets it apart from 335/355)

• PAF pickups

• Stereo output with two jacks (TRS configuration)

• 6-position Varitone switch (revolutionary tone filtering system)

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes (double-bound)

• Split-diamond headstock inlay

• Short pickguard (above bridge) from introduction

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst finish

• Rosewood fingerboard (not ebony like 355)

Varitone Explanation:

• 6-position rotary switch on upper bass bout

• Positions 1-5: Various capacitor/choke combinations filter frequencies

• Position 6: Bypass (normal tone)

• Controversial feature: loved by some, bypassed by many

• Affects collector value (original, working Varitone preferred)

Stereo Wiring:

• Each pickup routed to separate output jack

• Allows two amps or true stereo setup

• Can be run in mono using either jack

• Complex wiring harness

Why 1959 ES-345s Are Collectible:

• First production year (rarity)

• PAF pickups

• Unique split-parallelogram inlays

• Stereo/Varitone electronics

• Natural finish examples especially desirable

1959 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: A-32xxx to A-36xxx range
Production: Full production year (second year)
Estimated Production: Approximately 200-300 units

1959 ES-355 Features:

• Block inlays continue (still single blocks, not split-blocks)

• PAF pickups

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding everywhere

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone now standard on most examples

• Mono versions still available (rare, valuable)

• Bigsby vibrato very common

• Stop tailpiece on some examples

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural finish rare

• Sunburst finish available

1959 ES-355 Changes:

• Varitone now standard equipment (introduced on 355 in late 1958/early 1959)

• Binding work reaches peak quality

• Pickguard standardizes to short version

• Some examples with custom features (PAF Bigsby, special inlays)

Why 1959 ES-355s Are Highly Valued:

• Second year production (still rare)

• Prime PAF year

• Mono versions without Varitone command premium

• Stop tailpiece versions preferred by many over Bigsby

• Natural finish most desirable

• Ebony fingerboard and premium binding

1960: The Peak Year

1960 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: A-36xxx to A-40xxx range (transitional to new system)
Production: Peak production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 800-1,000 units

1960 ES-335 Features:

• Dot inlays continue through entire year

• PAF pickups (late PAF era—some of the finest)

• Short pickguard now standard

• Mickey Mouse ears continue

• Cherry finish very popular

• Natural and sunburst continue

• Bonnet knobs (witch hat style) becoming standard

• Double-line Kluson tuners (double-ring) on some examples

• ABR-1 bridge with retaining wire

1960 Specifications:

• Neck profile: Slight taper beginning (still substantial)

• Some examples with slimmer profiles

• Nut width: 1-11/16" standard

• Body construction refined

• Quality control excellent

• Individual variation in neck carving

Why 1960 335s Are Special:

• Last full year of dots with PAFs

• Production quality peaked

• Still handmade character

• Pre-block inlay change

• Excellent PAF pickups

• Cherry and natural finish examples particularly desirable

1960 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: A-36xxx to A-40xxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 300-400 units

1960 ES-345 Features:

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• PAF pickups (excellent examples)

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Short pickguard

• Mickey Mouse ears

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst finish

• Bonnet knobs

1960 ES-345 Characteristics:

• Full production year with refined manufacturing

• Consistent quality across production

• Natural finish examples rare and desirable

• Stereo electronics fully refined

1960 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: A-36xxx to A-40xxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 250-350 units

1960 ES-355 Features:

• Block inlays continue

• PAF pickups

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard on most

• Mono versions available (rare)

• Bigsby or stop tailpiece

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst finish

Why 1960 ES-355s Command Premium:

• Peak production quality

• Last full year of PAFs with blocks

• Exceptional build quality

• Stop tailpiece versions especially desirable

• Mono versions without Varitone rare

1961: The Transition Year

1961 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: Transitioning from A-4xxxx to new system (1xxxx without prefix)
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 1,000-1,200 units

1961 ES-335 Critical Changes:

• Dot inlays through mid-1961

• Block inlays introduced mid-1961 (major change)

• PAF pickups early 1961

• Patent number pickups appearing mid-1961 (transitional)

• Short pickguard standard

• Mickey Mouse ears continue

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Bonnet knobs standard

1961 Transition Details:

• Serial number system changes mid-year

• Dot to block inlay transition approximately May-July 1961

• PAF to patent number transition overlaps with inlay change

• Some "transitional" guitars with dots and patent numbers

• Some with blocks and PAFs (rare and valuable)

• White label replacing orange label inside body

Authentication Challenges:

• Transition year makes authentication complex

• Dots with patent numbers less common than blocks with patent numbers

• Blocks with PAFs extremely rare and valuable

• Serial numbers inconsistent during changeover

Why 1961 335s Are Complex:

• Multiple major transitions in single year

• Dot-neck PAF 335s ending (highly collectible)

• Block-neck introduction

• Patent number pickup introduction

• Collectors seek early 1961 dot-neck PAF examples

1961 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: Transitioning systems
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 400-500 units

1961 ES-345 Features:

• Split-parallelogram inlays continue (no change)

• PAF pickups early 1961

• Patent number pickups mid-1961 onward

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Mickey Mouse ears

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

1961 ES-345 Transition:

• Less dramatic than 335 (no inlay change)

• PAF to patent number transition main change

• Early 1961 PAF examples most desirable

• Mid-1961 transitional examples exist

1961 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: Transitioning systems
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 300-400 units

1961 ES-355 Features:

• Block inlays continue (no split-blocks yet)

• PAF pickups early 1961

• Patent number pickups mid-1961 onward

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone most common

• Bigsby or stop tailpiece

1961 ES-355 Collectibility:

• Early 1961 PAF examples highly desirable

• Stop tailpiece versions preferred

• Mono versions rare

• Natural finish rare

1962: Standardization Begins

1962 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: 1xxxx to 3xxxx range (new system without A prefix)
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 1,500+ units

1962 ES-335 Features:

• Block inlays standard (dots discontinued)

• Patent number pickups standard (PAFs gone)

• Short pickguard

• Mickey Mouse ears continue

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Bonnet knobs

• ABR-1 bridge

• Stop tailpiece or trapeze tailpiece option

1962 ES-335 Characteristics:

• First full year of block inlays

• Patent number pickups (still excellent tone)

• Production increasing

• Quality still excellent

• Neck profile: medium/slim taper

• White label inside body standard

Collector Considerations:

• Block-neck patent number combination standard

• Less valuable than dot-neck PAF examples but still collectible

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural finish commands premium

• Early 1962 may have late PAF pickups (rare, verify carefully)

1962 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: 1xxxx to 3xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 500-600 units

1962 ES-345 Features:

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• Patent number pickups standard

• Stereo/Varitone

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Mickey Mouse ears

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

1962 ES-345 Notes:

• Consistent production with patent number pickups

• Varitone electronics fully refined

• Natural finish examples rare

1962 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: 1xxxx to 3xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 400-500 units

1962 ES-355 Features:

• Block inlays (still single blocks)

• Patent number pickups standard

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Bigsby or stop tailpiece

• Cherry, natural, or walnut finish

1962 ES-355 Characteristics:

• Consistent high-quality production

• Walnut finish introduced (rare)

• Stop tailpiece versions desirable

• Mono versions extremely rare

1963: The Pointy Ear Revolution

1963 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: 3xxxx to 5xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 1,500-2,000 units

1963 ES-335 Major Change:

• Pointed cutaways introduced mid-1963 (replacing Mickey Mouse ears)

• Block inlays standard

• Patent number pickups

• Smaller pickguard introduced with pointed cutaways

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Bonnet knobs

• Trapeze tailpiece more common than stop tailpiece

1963 Transition Timeline:

• Early 1963: Mickey Mouse ears continue

• Mid-1963 (approximately May-August): Transition to pointed cutaways

• Late 1963: Pointed cutaways standard

Why the Cutaway Change Matters:

• Mickey Mouse ear examples from early 1963 more desirable to some collectors

• Pointed cutaway examples preferred by others

• Transition represents significant design evolution

• Affects player ergonomics and aesthetics

• Collector preferences vary

1963 ES-335 Specifications:

• Neck profile: slim taper standard

• Body depth: 1-5/8" continues

• Nut width: 1-11/16"

• Weight: 8-9 lbs typical

1963 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: 3xxxx to 5xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 600-700 units

1963 ES-345 Features:

• Pointed cutaways introduced mid-1963

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• Patent number pickups

• Stereo/Varitone

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

• Smaller pickguard with pointed cutaways

1963 ES-345 Notes:

• Follows same cutaway transition as 335

• Early 1963 round cutaways

• Late 1963 pointed cutaways

• Natural finish rare and desirable

1963 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: 3xxxx to 5xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 500-600 units

1963 ES-355 Features:

• Pointed cutaways introduced mid-1963

• Block inlays (single blocks continue)

• Patent number pickups

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Bigsby or trapeze tailpiece

• Cherry, natural, or walnut

1963 ES-355 Characteristics:

• Follows cutaway transition

• Trapeze tailpiece becoming more common

• Stop tailpiece and Bigsby less common

• Binding work remains exceptional

1964: Refinement of the Pointed Era

1964 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: 5xxxx to 8xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 2,000-2,500 units

1964 ES-335 Features:

• Pointed cutaways standard

• Block inlays

• Patent number pickups

• Small pickguard

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Bonnet knobs

• Trapeze tailpiece standard

• Stop tailpiece available but less common

1964 ES-335 Characteristics:

• Consistent pointed cutaway production

• Quality remains high

• Production increasing

• Neck profile: slim taper

• Some with wider neck profile (variation exists)

• White label inside

Collector Notes:

• Fully into pointed cutaway era

• Patent number pickups well-established

• Still pre-CBS (Gibson not acquired until late 1969)

• Cherry finish most common and popular

• Natural finish commands premium

1964 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: 5xxxx to 8xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 800-900 units

1964 ES-345 Features:

• Pointed cutaways standard

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• Patent number pickups

• Stereo/Varitone

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Small pickguard

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

• Trapeze tailpiece common

1964 ES-345 Notes:

• Production increasing

• Varitone electronics fully mature

• Natural finish rare

• Consistent quality throughout year

1964 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: 5xxxx to 8xxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 600-700 units

1964 ES-355 Features:

• Pointed cutaways standard

• Block inlays (single blocks)

• Patent number pickups

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Trapeze tailpiece most common

• Bigsby still available

• Cherry, natural, or walnut

1964 ES-355 Characteristics:

• Consistent pointed cutaway production

• Trapeze tailpiece now predominant

• Walnut finish more available

• Natural finish rare

1965: The Last Great Year

1965 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: 8xxxx to 2xxxxx range (system changes to 6-digit)
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 2,500-3,000 units

1965 ES-335 Features:

• Pointed cutaways

• Block inlays

• Patent number pickups early 1965

• T-Top pickups appearing late 1965

• Small pickguard

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Trapeze tailpiece standard

• Bonnet knobs early, speed knobs appearing late

1965 ES-335 Transitions:

• Serial number system changes to 6-digit format mid-year

• Patent number to T-Top pickup transition begins

• Some hardware changes beginning

• Last year before significant quality changes

• Still considered "golden era" by collectors

Why 1965 Is Important:

• Last full year of patent number pickups

• Last year before 1966 changes

• Pre-CBS acquisition (happened 1969, but planning began earlier)

• Quality still excellent

• Production increasing but craftsmanship maintained

1965 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: 8xxxx to 2xxxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 900-1,000 units

1965 ES-345 Features:

• Pointed cutaways

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• Patent number pickups early

• T-Top pickups late

• Stereo/Varitone

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

• Trapeze tailpiece

1965 ES-345 Notes:

• Consistent production

• Patent to T-Top transition

• Natural finish rare

• Quality remains high

1965 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: 8xxxx to 2xxxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 700-800 units

1965 ES-355 Features:

• Pointed cutaways

• Block inlays (single blocks)

• Patent number pickups early

• T-Top pickups late

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Trapeze tailpiece most common

• Cherry, natural, or walnut

1965 ES-355 Characteristics:

• High-quality production continues

• Patent to T-Top transition

• Trapeze tailpiece predominant

• Walnut finish available

1966: Changes and Evolution

1966 ES-335TD

Serial Numbers: 2xxxxx to 5xxxxx range (6-digit system)
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 3,000+ units

1966 ES-335 Changes:

• Pointed cutaways

• Block inlays

• T-Top pickups standard (patent numbers gone)

• Larger bevels on body edges

• Cherry finish most common

• Natural and sunburst available

• Speed knobs becoming standard

• Trapeze tailpiece standard

1966 ES-335 Specifications:

• Neck profile: slim taper continues

• Some examples with slightly wider necks

• Body construction: some changes in bracing

• Hardware: transitioning specifications

• White label inside

Why 1966 Represents a Shift:

• T-Top pickups now standard (patent numbers gone)

• Production increasing significantly

• Some cost-cutting measures beginning

• Quality still good but beginning to change

• Last year many collectors consider "vintage era"

• Some collectors end their interest at 1965

Collector Perspective on 1966:

• Still collectible but less desirable than 1958-1965

• T-Top pickups excellent but not PAFs or early patent numbers

• Production numbers higher

• Quality beginning to shift

• Cherry finish most common

1966 ES-345TD

Serial Numbers: 2xxxxx to 5xxxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 1,000-1,200 units

1966 ES-345 Features:

• Pointed cutaways

• Split-parallelogram inlays

• T-Top pickups standard

• Stereo/Varitone

• Gold hardware

• Bound f-holes

• Larger bevels

• Cherry, natural, or sunburst

• Trapeze tailpiece

• Speed knobs

1966 ES-345 Notes:

• T-Top pickups standard

• Production increasing

• Varitone electronics unchanged

• Natural finish becoming rarer

1966 ES-355TD

Serial Numbers: 2xxxxx to 5xxxxx range
Production: Full production year
Estimated Production: Approximately 800-900 units

1966 ES-355 Features:

• Pointed cutaways

• Block inlays transitioning to split-block inlays

• T-Top pickups standard

• Ebony fingerboard

• Multi-ply binding

• Gold hardware

• Stereo/Varitone standard

• Trapeze tailpiece predominant

• Cherry, natural, or walnut

• Larger bevels

1966 ES-355 Transition:

• Split-block inlays appearing (transition from single blocks)

• Some examples with single blocks

• Some with split-blocks

• Transition timing varies

• T-Top pickups standard

Common Issues and Modifications (All Models, All Years)

Structural Issues to Watch For

Headstock Cracks:

• Semi-hollow Gibsons less prone than solid bodies

• Check for cracks behind nut

• Cracks at tuner holes from over-tightening

• Headstock breaks rare but devastating to value

Body Cracks:

• Top cracks along grain lines

• F-hole cracks (check carefully)

• Back cracks less common

• Binding cracks from shrinkage

• Check for repaired cracks (reduces value significantly)

Neck Issues:

• Neck reset rarely needed (bolt-on neck plate)

• Fret wear common on played examples

• Fingerboard wear

• Truss rod function critical

• Some necks may have twisted or warped

Binding Issues:

• Binding shrinkage common on 335 (single-ply)

• 345/355 multi-ply binding more stable

• Yellowing normal and expected

• Cracks in binding common

• Missing binding sections reduce value

Electronics Issues

Pickup Problems:

• PAF pickups: Check for originality (many replaced or rewound)

• Patent number pickups: Verify correct date codes

• T-Tops: Generally reliable

• Rewound pickups significantly reduce value

• Replaced pickups reduce value substantially

Wiring Modifications:

• Many ES-345s have Varitone bypassed or removed

• Original stereo wiring often converted to mono

• Check for modern wiring and components

• Original wiring harness critical to value

• Pot codes should match year (verify authenticity)

Varitone Issues (ES-345/ES-355):

• Varitone switches often fail or are bypassed

• Working original Varitone adds significant value

• Replacement Varitones available but hurt collectibility

• Some players prefer Varitone removed (controversial)

Switch and Jack Problems:

• Toggle switches wear out and are often replaced

• Output jacks frequently replaced

• Stereo jacks on 345/355 often replaced with mono

• Original components preferred

Hardware Modifications

Tuner Replacements:

• Original Kluson tuners frequently replaced with Grovers or Schallers

• Replacement tuners reduce value

• Check for additional screw holes

• Original tuners critical to collector value

Bridge Replacements:

• ABR-1 bridges often replaced with modern Nashville bridges

• Nylon vs. metal saddles (early vs. late)

• Aftermarket bridges reduce value

• Original bridge important

Tailpiece Changes:

• Stop tailpieces sometimes replaced with trapeze (or vice versa)

• Bigsby additions or removals

• Check for filled holes indicating tailpiece change

• Original tailpiece configuration preferred

Pickguard Issues:

• Shrinkage common (especially on 335)

• Cracking normal

• Missing pickguards acceptable if ghost outline visible

• Reproduction guards reduce value slightly

• Original guards with shrinkage more valuable than reproductions

Finish Issues

Refinishing:

• Complete refinishes reduce value dramatically (40-70%)

• Check for overspray in f-holes

• Examine binding for finish buildup

• UV light reveals refinishes

• Original finish with checking more valuable than refinish

Finish Checking:

• Natural checking and crazing expected and desirable

• Indicates original finish

• Heavy checking on sunburst finishes normal

• Cherry finish often fades (desirable aging)

Sunburst Fading:

• Cherry sunburst fades to orange or brownish hues

• Natural fading desirable

• "Refreshed" sunburst reduces value

• Check consistency of fading patterns

Touch-ups and Overspray:

• Minor touch-ups common and acceptable if well done

• Heavy touch-up work reduces value

• Overspray indicates refinish or heavy touch-up

Authentication Red Flags

Serial Number Issues:

• Verify serial number matches year specifications

• Check for re-stamped or altered numbers

• Cross-reference with factory order numbers when visible

• Incorrect serial number font indicates fake

Pickup Authentication:

• PAF stickers often faked or added to patent number pickups

• Verify pickup construction matches era

• Check resistance readings

• Compare to known authentic examples

Incorrect Features:

• Wrong inlay patterns for year

• Anachronistic hardware

• Incorrect cutaway style for year

• Wrong finish options for model/year

"Partscasters":

• Bodies and necks from different years

• Mismatched serial numbers and features

• Inconsistent aging across components

Relative Value and Collectibility Rankings

While specific dollar values fluctuate with market conditions, the relative desirability and ranking among these instruments remains fairly consistent:

Most Valuable Configurations (Highest to Lower):

ES-335:

1. 1958 dot-neck, PAF, natural finish

2. 1958 dot-neck, PAF, sunburst

3. 1959 dot-neck, PAF, natural finish

4. 1959 dot-neck, PAF, cherry

5. 1960 dot-neck, PAF, natural finish

6. 1960 dot-neck, PAF, cherry

7. 1961 early dot-neck, PAF

8. 1961 late block-neck, PAF (rare transitional)

9. 1962-1963 block-neck, patent number, round cutaways

10. 1963-1965 block-neck, patent number, pointed cutaways

ES-345:

1. 1959 first-year, PAF, natural finish

2. 1960 PAF, natural finish

3. 1961 early PAF

4. 1959-1961 PAF cherry or sunburst

5. 1962-1963 patent number, round cutaways

6. 1963-1965 patent number, pointed cutaways

ES-355:

1. 1958 mono (no Varitone), PAF, stop tailpiece, natural

2. 1959 mono (no Varitone), PAF, stop tailpiece, natural

3. 1960 PAF, stop tailpiece, natural

4. 1958-1960 PAF, Bigsby, cherry

5. 1961 early PAF, stop tailpiece

6. 1962-1965 patent number, stop tailpiece

7. 1962-1965 patent number, Bigsby or trapeze

Value Factors (Impact from Highest to Lowest):

1. Pickup Type: PAF > Early Patent Number > Late Patent Number > T-Top

2. Originality: All original > Minor mods > Significant mods > Refinished

3. Condition: Excellent > Very Good > Good > Fair

4. Year: 1958-1960 > 1961-1962 > 1963-1964 > 1965-1966

5. Finish (335): Natural > Cherry > Sunburst

6. Finish (345/355): Natural > Cherry > Sunburst > Walnut

7. Inlays (335 only): Dots > Blocks (among collectors, though players may prefer blocks)

8. Cutaways (slight preference): Round ("Mickey Mouse") > Pointed

9. Tailpiece (355 only): Stop > Bigsby > Trapeze

10. Electronics (345/355): Original stereo/Varitone > Modified

Model Ranking (Relative Collectibility):

For comparable year and condition:

1. ES-335 dot-neck (1958-1961) - Most sought after overall

2. ES-355 mono (1958-1959) - Rarest configuration

3. ES-355 stereo (1958-1962) - Premium flagship

4. ES-345 (1959-1962) - Unique features, solid collectibility

5. ES-335 block-neck (1961-1965) - Still very collectible

6. ES-345 (1963-1966) - Good collectibility

7. ES-355 (1963-1966) - Premium model, steady demand

Selling Your Vintage Gibson ES-335, ES-345, or ES-355

If you own a 1958-1966 Gibson semi-hollow or have inherited one, you possess an instrument from one of the most important eras in electric guitar history. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in evaluating and purchasing these complex instruments, understanding the subtle year-to-year variations that significantly impact value.

Why Sell to Edgewater Guitars?

Expert Authentication and Valuation:

• Deep knowledge of year-specific features and transitions

• Understanding of PAF vs. patent number vs. T-Top pickups

• Recognition of dot vs. block inlay transitions

• Expertise in Mickey Mouse vs. pointed cutaway changeover

• Ability to identify refinishes, modifications, and replaced parts

• Verification of serial numbers and factory specifications

• Pot code dating and electronics authentication

We Pay 30-40% More Than Typical Guitar Shops Because:

• We understand the complexity of 1958-1966 semi-hollows

• We recognize transitional features that others miss

• We properly value original PAF pickups

• We appreciate original finish even with checking

• We understand stereo/Varitone electronics

• We know which modifications hurt value vs. acceptable repairs

Comprehensive Evaluation Process:

• Pickup authentication (PAF verification critical)

• Electronics inspection (original wiring, pots, caps)

• Finish examination (original vs. refinish)

• Structural assessment (cracks, repairs, stability)

• Hardware originality (tuners, bridge, tailpiece, knobs)

• Serial number and date code verification

• Playability and tonal evaluation

Streamlined Selling Process:

• Immediate cash offers for qualified instruments

• No consignment fees or waiting periods

• No dealing with unqualified buyers

• Secure shipping with full insurance

• In-person evaluation throughout Ohio and surrounding states

• Travel available for exceptional instruments

What We Look For in ES-335/345/355 Guitars

High-Value Indicators:

• PAF pickups (1958-1962, verify authenticity)

• Dot neck ES-335s (1958-1961)

• Early production years (1958-1960)

• Natural finish (rare and premium)

• All-original condition

• Original case and documentation

• Stop tailpiece on ES-355 (vs. Bigsby or trapeze)

• Mono ES-355 without Varitone (1958-1959)

• Round "Mickey Mouse" cutaways (1958-early 1963)

Critical Authenticity Checks:

• PAF pickups: We verify construction, resistance, bobbin color, wire type

• Pot codes: Must match year of guitar

• Serial numbers: Correct format and range for claimed year

• Inlays: Correct pattern for year (dots vs. blocks critical on 335)

• Cutaways: Round vs. pointed must match year

• Hardware: Period-correct tuners, bridge, tailpiece

• Finish: Original nitrocellulose with proper aging vs. refinish

Common Issues We Assess Fairly:

• Professional fret work (acceptable if well done)

• Pickup rewinds or replacements (significantly affect value)

• Varitone bypassed or removed (common on 345/355)

• Stereo to mono conversions (reduces value but understood)

• Refinishing (major value impact but we still buy)

• Headstock repairs (significant value reduction)

• Replaced tuners (common, reduces value moderately)

Our Service Area

Primary Region:

• Ohio (Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, Dayton)

• Michigan (Detroit, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor)

• Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh, Erie)

• Indiana (Fort Wayne, South Bend, Indianapolis)

• West Virginia (Wheeling, Morgantown, Charleston)

• Kentucky (Northern Kentucky, Louisville)

Extended Service:

• For exceptional instruments (1958-1960 PAF examples, rare configurations), we travel nationally

• Climate-controlled transportation

• Full insurance coverage

Get Your Free Expert Valuation

Contact the vintage Gibson semi-hollow experts who understand what makes your guitar valuable:

Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Online: Get Your Free Valuation

Information to Provide:

• Model (335, 345, or 355)

• Serial number (located on back of headstock or inside f-hole)

• Clear photos:

  • Front and back of guitar

  • Headstock front and back (showing serial number)

  • Pickup close-ups (to verify PAF, patent number, or T-Top)

  • Close-up of inlays

  • Cutaway style detail

  • Label inside f-hole

  • Any areas of damage or modification

  • Original case if available

• Any known history, modifications, or repairs

• Pot codes if accessible (remove control plate cover)

We respond within 24 hours and can often provide preliminary valuations with good photos, followed by in-person evaluation for serious instruments.

Related Resources

Explore these resources for additional information on vintage Gibson semi-hollow guitars:

• Complete Gibson Serial Number Lookup Tool

• Gibson ES-335 Dot Neck vs. Block Neck Guide

• PAF Pickup Authentication Guide

• Gibson Patent Number Pickup Dating

• How to Spot Refinished Gibson ES Guitars

• Gibson Pot Code Dating Guide

• Varitone Switch: How It Works and Values

• Gibson ES-345 Complete Specifications

• Gibson ES-355 Identification Guide

• Selling Vintage Gibson Guitars: Complete Guide

Recent Purchase Example

1960 ES-335 Dot-Neck Acquisition - Akron, Ohio

We recently purchased an exceptional 1960 ES-335 dot-neck from an estate in Akron. The family discovered it in their uncle's closet, who had purchased it new in 1960 and played it in local jazz clubs through the 1960s before it was retired.

Guitar Details:

• All-original 1960 ES-335

• Dot inlays in rosewood fingerboard

• Original PAF pickups (verified authentic through multiple methods)

• Cherry finish with beautiful natural aging

• Original Kluson tuners

• Original ABR-1 bridge with retaining wire

• Original stop tailpiece

• Mickey Mouse ear cutaways

• Short pickguard

• Original bonnet knobs

• Professional refret in 1985 (well-documented, excellent work)

• Original brown hardshell case

• Original purchase receipt from Akron music store

• Uncle's band photographs from 1960s showing the guitar

Competing Offers:

• Local guitar shop #1: Didn't recognize PAFs, offered based on "block neck" value

• Local shop #2: Questioned PAF authenticity without verification

• Online buyer: Low-ball offer contingent on in-person renegotiation

• Pawn shop: Insulting offer

Our Process: We conducted a thorough in-home appraisal:

• Verified original PAF pickups (resistance readings, construction, wire type, bobbin color)

• Confirmed 1960 dating through serial number and pot codes

• Assessed original finish (UV light examination confirmed authenticity)

• Evaluated professional refret as expertly done with period-correct wire

• Reviewed documentation and provenance

• Played the instrument extensively (exceptional tone)

• Educated family about the significance of dot-neck PAF 335s

Our Approach: We made an immediate cash offer that exceeded the highest competing offer by a substantial margin. The family was shocked by the difference and accepted immediately.

Why Our Offer Was Higher:

• We properly identified and valued original PAF pickups

• We recognized the significance of 1960 dot-neck configuration

• We appreciated the original cherry finish

• We valued the documentation and provenance

• We understood professional fret work doesn't kill value

• We paid for quality and originality

Client Testimonial: "The local shops made us feel like we were trying to sell a department store guitar. One didn't even know what PAFs were. Another said they 'might be real' but offered a price like they weren't. Edgewater knew exactly what they were looking at, educated us about why the guitar was special, and paid us fairly. The difference was incredible. We're so grateful we found them before selling it for a fraction of its value."

The guitar is now in the hands of a serious collector who will preserve this exceptional example of Gibson's golden era.

Trust the ES-Series Experts

When it's time to sell your 1958-1966 Gibson ES-335, ES-345, or ES-355, trust the team that understands the complex year-by-year variations, transition features, and authentication details that determine true value.

Don't settle for:

• Shops that can't differentiate PAFs from patent numbers

• Buyers who don't understand dot vs. block significance

• Dealers who can't identify refinishes

• Online buyers who renegotiate after seeing the guitar

• Generic music stores without vintage expertise

Get the expert evaluation your Gibson semi-hollow deserves.

Contact Edgewater Guitars Today

Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Website: www.edgewaterguitars.com

Service Area: Ohio and surrounding Midwest states
Special Service: National travel for exceptional vintage instruments

Stephen Pedone, Vintage Guitar Specialist at Edgewater Guitars, has over 7 years of experience evaluating and purchasing vintage Gibson electric guitars. His expertise in ES-series semi-hollows from the 1958-1966 golden era, including pickup authentication, finish verification, and transition feature identification, ensures you receive accurate, fair valuations based on your guitar's specific characteristics and current market conditions.

Edgewater Guitars: Where Expert Knowledge Meets Fair Value