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Likely started in 1969 and numbered and finished shortly after the Norlin takeover making it technically a 1970 model, but it could be as early as late 1968, this Super 400 CES spec-wise is nearly identical to my personal 1969 model, but is in nicer looking condition.  The sound from the original patent decal T-tops is also very similar, and would likely be indistinguishable if the pickup is adjusted similarly.  That sound in my opinion is peak Gibson CES tone.  While not loud, it has a very warm, pleasing acoustic tone as well.

 

This guitar was refretted fairly recently and more recently had an expert fret dressing resulting in a guitar with superb playability. The C-shaped neck carve is very comfortable and the guitar has a nice full-size nut width at 1.70 inches.

 

The guitar is in excellent condition for an instrument that is 56 years old.  The pigment in the sunburst is still bright and the finish is glossy with just some scattered light dents and scratches from normal play.  There is also a focus of lacquer discoloration from off-gassing of the original pickguard.  There are some very fine crack lines in the wood around the jack, but all is strong and stable there. The tailpiece, bridge, all electronics (except for the input jack, the original is included), and truss rod cover are all original.  There are subtle differences that make me think the low E string tuner was replaced, but all of the other tuners appear original.  The pickguard is a reproduction by Fox Guitars.

 

Weight - 8.2 pounds

Nut width - 1.70 inches

1st fret neck depth - 0.79 inches

9th fret neck depth - 0.99 inches

Scale length - 25.5 inches

Lower bout width - 18 inches

Body depth at rim - 3.4 inches

 

The guitar comes with a TKL case that appears nearly new in condition.

 

Ships free in the United States and for reasonable rates worldwide.

1968-70 Gibson Super 400 CES

$12,499.00Price
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