This instrument was purchased new in 1954 in Abilene, TX by the mother of Jack Allan Barnes, for Jack’s high school graduation present. Jack’s mother paid $175 for the guitar and case. When Jack and his mother went to the music store to pick out a guitar, Jack said he wanted a Les Paul but didn’t necessarily want a gold one; the store offered to contact Gibson to see if he could order a Les Paul in a different color. Gibson responded saying Jack and his mother could order a Les Paul in the standard Gold color, Black, or Red. Jack chose Black. The guitar arrived a few months later and it remained with the Barnes family ever since. A few years later in 1957, Jack’s first child was born and thus Jack put his guitar playing days behind him; the guitar has sat untouched since then. The instrument was first offered through sale at Carter Vintage last year, and now it is available again exclusively through CVG.

It is inspiring to see a guitar preserved like this one, kept in original condition since 1954 and just now brought to light for guitar enthusiasts to enjoy. Through thorough inspection this guitar proves to pass with flying colors on every front of originality after addressing four small spots of finish touchup on the top and the added mailbox “J.A.B.” lettering. Nearly everything about this Les Paul is how it was the day it left the Gibson plant in 1954. Included with the guitar is the original Lifton Four-Latch case, which is in equally amazing condition. Inside the case is the original Gibson care manual, case key, and “Fender Electric Instruments” pick holders, among other period-correct items.