Today, the 1959 Gibson Les Paul is considered to be one of the most highly collectable guitars in the vintage market. Such one the most desirable electric guitar – left-handed 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard Sunburst guitar could fetch more than $125,000 at the Heritage Auctions’ upcoming Vintage Guitars and Musical Instruments Signature Auction on October 26, 2012.
Gibson offered the Les Paul model in sunburst finish from 1958 through 1960, switching to the SG body style in 1961. In that period, just about 1,600 were created, with only four left-handed guitars – two in 1959 and two in 1960. This one that will be offered at auction is one of that two ’59 left-handed ‘bursts, while the whereabouts are unknown for the other 1959 guitar.
Also highly valued by players and collectors alike, and almost equal legendary as the 1959s, are the two 1960 left-handed Les Paul bursts, one of which is in the possesion of the auction house itself, so it will be auctioned off at the same event, and is expected to sell for more than $60,000. The owner of the other existing left-handed, Les Paul Standard Sunburst guitar is none other than Sir Paul McCartney.
Heritage is participating with the U.S. Marshals Service to sell off these rare guitars to benefit victims of the Aspen Energy Oil and Gas Investment Scheme.
