Introduced in 1955, the Gibson Byrdland was the first Gibson thinline guitar introduced. It had been developed in association with famed Nashville guitarists Billy Byrd and Hank Garland, hence the name Byrdland. In addition to being developed as a thinner version of Gibson's electric archtop, the scale was also shortened to 23.5 inches to make extended chord voicings easier to reach. Many of the Byrdland examples feature a 1.625 (1 5/8) inch nut, but this example is in between at just a hair under the standard 1.688 (1 11/16) inches at 1.65  (1 21/32) inches.
 
This 1964 Byrdland is loaded with all original electronics, including the original early patent decal pickups which have the same construction as late short magnet PAF pickups.  These pickups sound simply fantastic, just like you hope to find in early Gibson humbuckers.  
 
The playability is wonderful with fast action.  All notes ring out clearly at all frets.  The frets are in excellent condition with little evidence of wear.
 
The guitar shows in excellent condition for a guitar that is over 60 years old.  The finish is in beautiful condition with only a few areas showing significant wear, notably next to the pickup switch, at the top of the back of the headstock, and a focus of chipped off finish on the heel (see photos).  The bridge, tailpiece, control knobs, switch tip, and truss rod cover all appear original.
 
Weight - 6.75 pounds
Nut width - 1.65 inches
1st fret depth - 0.82 inches
9th fret depth - 0.95 inches
Scale length - 23.5 inches
 
The guitar comes with the original hardshell case which is in good condition.  All latches and hinges work appropriately.  The tolex shows a few areas where it has been patched.
 
Ships free in the United States and for reasonable rates worldwide.