This guitar is a re-issue of the famous 1956 Gold Top. In 1968, a new demand for the early model encouraged Gibson to recreate the '56 specification. Built between 1968 and early 1969, the guitar was made using exactly the same materials as the original (some say that wood from the original '56 stock was used). The pick-ups are P90 (aka. soapbar) single coil types.
The mahogany body's gold cellulose finish ages to a greeny-gold hue, which is much cherished. Sadly, from 1970 onwards, Gibson quality declined and the value of the later guitars diminished. This particular example is one of the last produced to the original spec and with the same materials.
The neck is one piece of mahogany without the volute (a moulding at the top of the neck) that later models have. The fret board is rosewood with pearl inlays. A previous owner must have worn a lot of jewellery and big belt buckles, as the top and back are marked, however, this simply adds to the aged look of the instrument. The binding around the edge of the body has faded to a creamy colour rather than the normal off white. This again, is typical of the ageing process of the old Gibsons.
The guitar is strung with Optima Gold 9-46.