1959 stands as arguably the single greatest year in Gibson's history, and this ES-345 is a stunning example of why. A thinline semi-hollow built the same year as the "holy grail" Bursts, carrying double black PAF coils in both positions and genuine Brazilian rosewood fretboard. The Varitone circuit has been thoughtfully removed in favor of new pots, switch, and jack for simpler, punchier tone shaping, with every original part carefully preserved in the case pocket should a future owner want to return it to stock. The bridge pickup shows real player-driven history too, its cover removed and the coil potted to tame microphonic squeal at volume, carrying the mark of a guitar that's been dialed in for serious use. Small factory details like the slotted neck pickup ring screws confirm this is a genuine, unmolested '59 underneath its modifications, and at just 7.4 lbs it's remarkably light and comfortable for a guitar of this era. With a fresh refret using famously huge Dunlop 6000 frets and new nut, it plays as good as it looks, and it presents in excellent condition throughout. This is a rare chance to own a golden-era Gibson semi-hollow with honest, tasteful modification history rather than years of neglect; a true player's '59, ready for the stage.
