How Many 59 Les Pauls Are Documented?

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How many 59 Les Pauls are accounted for?

The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever created. Known for its distinct tone and beautiful craftsmanship, it has become a favorite among guitarists around the world. One of the most sought-after models is the 1959 Les Paul Standard, commonly referred to as the ‘59 Les Paul. These guitars are highly desired due to their unique features and limited production numbers.

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While there is no exact number of how many ‘59 Les Pauls were made, it is estimated that only around 650 to 700 were produced during that specific year. The production number is relatively low compared to other Les Paul models, making these guitars rare and highly collectible today. The scarcity of these guitars has driven up their value, with some models selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Each ‘59 Les Paul is unique in its own way, with variations in color, finish, and hardware. The most famous of these guitars is perhaps the “Burst” finish, characterized by its vibrant sunburst color and flame maple top. These guitars are often regarded as some of the best-sounding Les Pauls ever made, thanks to their PAF pickups, which are highly coveted by collectors and players alike.

In addition to their sound and craftsmanship, the ‘59 Les Pauls have a fascinating history. They were not initially popular when they were first released in 1958, and Gibson made significant changes to the design in subsequent years. It wasn’t until the late 1960s and early 1970s that the vintage ‘59 Les Pauls gained recognition for their superior sound and build quality. Today, these guitars are considered the holy grail for many guitar enthusiasts and are cherished for their legendary status.

In conclusion, the number of documented ‘59 Les Pauls is relatively small, with around 650 to 700 guitars estimated to have been produced. Their scarcity, unique features, and exceptional sound make these guitars highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike. Whether you’re a fan of vintage guitars or simply appreciate the artistry of the Les Paul, the ‘59 Les Paul is an iconic instrument that continues to captivate guitar enthusiasts around the world.

How Many 59 Les Pauls Are Documented?

When it comes to vintage guitars, few are as iconic and coveted as the 1959 Gibson Les Paul. Known for its exceptional tone and craftsmanship, the ‘59 Les Paul has become a holy grail for many guitar collectors and players. But just how many of these legendary instruments are still around?

While it’s difficult to know the exact number of ‘59 Les Pauls in existence, experts estimate that there are around 650 to 700 documented examples of this particular model. These figures are based on various sources, including production records, historical documentation, and verified sightings in the guitar community.

Although this may seem like a relatively small number, it’s important to remember that the ‘59 Les Paul was not initially considered a highly desirable guitar. In fact, it was one of the least popular models of its time, and Gibson only produced around 650 of them. It was only in the 1960s and 1970s that the ‘59 Les Paul gained recognition and started to gain a cult following among musicians.

Today, the ‘59 Les Paul is highly sought after by collectors and players alike, with some models fetching prices in the millions of dollars. Its scarcity and historical significance contribute to its value, making it one of the most desirable guitars in the world.

In conclusion, while the exact number of documented ‘59 Les Pauls may not be known, it is believed that there are around 650 to 700 of these vintage instruments in existence. Their rarity and desirability continue to make them highly sought after by guitar enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Rarity of 59 Les Pauls

The 1959 Les Paul is widely considered to be one of the most coveted and valuable electric guitars ever made. Its distinctive sound and iconic design have made it a favorite among guitarists for over six decades. However, due to its limited production and unique features, the 59 Les Paul is quite rare and highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike.

There are several factors that contribute to the rarity of 59 Les Pauls. First and foremost is their limited production numbers. It is estimated that only around 650 Les Pauls were produced in 1959, making them quite scarce compared to other guitar models. Additionally, Gibson, the manufacturer of Les Paul guitars, made some changes to the design and construction of the instrument in subsequent years, further adding to the rarity of the 59 model.

Furthermore, the 59 Les Paul features several unique and desirable characteristics that make it even more rare. One of the most notable is the flametop finish, which is highly prized for its beautiful, natural wood grain patterns. The 59 model also has the famous “Burst” finish, characterized by a sunburst pattern that gradually transitions from a lighter color in the center to a darker color around the edges. These distinctive finishes are difficult to replicate and contribute to the desirability and rarity of 59 Les Pauls.

In addition to its unique finishes, the 59 Les Paul also has specific features that set it apart from other Les Paul models. These include a slim neck profile, PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker pickups, and a lightweight construction. These features contribute to the exceptional tone and playability of the 59 Les Paul and make it highly sought after by guitarists looking for that vintage sound and feel.

The rarity of 59 Les Pauls has also been fueled by their association with renowned musicians and their use on iconic recordings. Artists such as Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Billy Gibbons have helped popularize the 59 Les Paul and increase its desirability among guitar enthusiasts. As a result, the demand for 59 Les Pauls has far exceeded the available supply, driving up prices and making them even more exclusive.

In conclusion, the 59 Les Paul is a rare and valuable guitar due to its limited production numbers, unique finishes, and specific features. Its iconic status in the world of music and association with legendary musicians have also contributed to its rarity and desirability. Whether you’re a collector or a musician, owning a 59 Les Paul is a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless appeal.

Historical Significance

The 1959 Les Paul is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and sought-after electric guitars in history. Its historical significance stems from its unique craftsmanship, exceptional tone, and association with legendary guitarists.

First introduced in 1952, the Les Paul guitar underwent several changes before reaching its pinnacle in 1959. It was during this year that Gibson made crucial design modifications, including a thinner, more contoured body, a sunburst finish, and the introduction of the coveted “Burstbucker” humbucking pickups. These improvements contributed to the guitar’s exceptional playability and rich, warm tone.

Aside from their exceptional features, 1959 Les Pauls also gained historical significance due to their association with renowned musicians. Famed guitarists such as Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Slash have all prominently used 1959 Les Paul guitars in their careers, contributing to the instrument’s legendary status.

Today, the 1959 Les Paul has become a symbol of vintage guitar collecting and is highly sought-after by musicians and collectors worldwide. Its historical significance and scarcity have made it a coveted and valuable instrument, with original models commanding premium prices in the guitar market.

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Collectors and enthusiasts often meticulously document and study 1959 Les Pauls in an effort to trace their history, understand production variations, and identify unique characteristics that contribute to their distinct tonal qualities. This ongoing research and documentation help preserve the historical significance of these legendary instruments.

Authenticity and Verification

When it comes to rare collectible guitars like the 1959 Les Paul, authenticity and verification are of utmost importance. With the high value and demand for these instruments, it is crucial for both buyers and sellers to be able to confirm the authenticity of a particular guitar.

Various methods and techniques are used to verify the authenticity of a 1959 Les Paul. One of the most common ways is through serial number tracking. Each guitar has a unique serial number assigned to it, and by cross-checking this number with historical records and databases, it is possible to determine the legitimacy of the instrument.

Furthermore, physical examination and analysis play a vital role in confirming authenticity. Experts and specialists examine various aspects of the guitar, including the shape, design, finish, and hardware, to ensure that they match the specifications and details of a genuine 1959 Les Paul.

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Another important aspect of verification is provenance. This refers to the documented history and ownership of a particular guitar. Any authentic 1959 Les Paul should come with a documented history that includes information about its previous owners, any modifications or repairs, and its overall journey over the years. This information can be crucial in validating the authenticity of the instrument.

Overall, authenticity and verification are essential in the world of collectible guitars, especially when it comes to highly sought-after models like the 1959 Les Paul. By using methods such as serial number tracking, physical examination, and provenance assessment, experts can determine whether a guitar is indeed an authentic 1959 Les Paul or a reproduction.

Known Owners and Public Collections

Over the years, several notable guitarists and collectors have owned or currently own one or more of the documented 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitars. These legendary guitars have been sought after by musicians and enthusiasts worldwide.

One of the most famous owners of a 1959 Les Paul is Jimmy Page, the iconic guitarist of Led Zeppelin. Page’s Les Paul, known as “Number One,” is widely recognized as one of the finest examples of a 1959 Les Paul. It has become synonymous with his signature sound and style.

Another well-known owner of a 1959 Les Paul is Slash, the former guitarist of Guns N’ Roses. Slash’s Les Paul, named “The Appetite Burst,” is a highly regarded instrument in his collection. Its rich, creamy tone and unmistakable burst finish make it a true gem.

In addition to individual musicians, there are also public collections that house documented 1959 Les Paul guitars. One such collection is the collection at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. Here, visitors can see and admire these iconic instruments up close.

Another public collection that showcases 1959 Les Paul guitars is the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Tennessee. This museum pays tribute to legendary musicians and their instruments, and the 1959 Les Paul guitars are prominently displayed among their exhibits.

These known owners and public collections provide an insight into the significance and legacy of the 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitars. They continue to captivate both musicians and fans alike with their timeless beauty and extraordinary sound.

Future Discoveries and Impact on the Market

As the search for more 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitars continues, it is expected that future discoveries will have a significant impact on the market. Each new documented 59 Les Paul that is found adds to the inventory and history of these iconic instruments, making them even more desirable among collectors and musicians alike.

These future discoveries are likely to fuel the already high demand for original 59 Les Pauls. As the number of documented guitars increases, so does the rarity of these instruments, making them even more valuable and sought after. This increased scarcity will drive up prices and create a competitive market for these vintage guitars.

Furthermore, the impact of future discoveries will extend beyond the market itself. The documentation and preservation of these guitars contribute to our understanding of music history and the development of iconic instruments. Each new finding provides valuable insights into the craftsmanship, sound, and playability of these vintage Les Paul guitars.

The impact of future discoveries also extends to the wider guitar industry. As collectors and musicians learn more about the characteristics and qualities of original 59 Les Pauls, they may influence the designs and features of modern-day guitars. Manufacturers and luthiers might incorporate aspects of vintage Les Pauls into their instruments, creating a ripple effect throughout the industry.

In conclusion, future discoveries of 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitars will have a profound impact on the market, driving up demand and prices, contributing to our understanding of music history, and potentially influencing the design of modern-day guitars. The continued search for these rare instruments ensures that their legacy will live on for generations to come.

FAQ:

What is the significance of the 59 Les Paul?

The 59 Les Paul is considered by many guitar enthusiasts to be one of the holy grails of electric guitars. It is highly sought after for its legendary tone and craftsmanship.

How many 59 Les Paul guitars are known to exist?

As of now, there are approximately 643 documented 59 Les Paul guitars. However, the number may not be exact as some may still be undiscovered or undocumented.

Are all 59 Les Paul guitars the same?

No, each 59 Les Paul guitar is unique due to variations in wood grain, finishing, and other factors. These variations contribute to the individual character of each instrument.

What makes the 59 Les Paul so special?

The 59 Les Paul is known for its exceptional craftsmanship, prime tonewoods, and its PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker pickups, which are highly regarded for their rich and distinctive sound. These factors combine to create a truly exceptional guitar.

How much does a 59 Les Paul guitar cost?

The price of a 59 Les Paul guitar can vary greatly depending on factors such as its condition, originality, and provenance. In general, they can cost anywhere from several hundred thousand dollars to over a million dollars.

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