This is one of the big ones.

The Billy Gibbons “Pearly Gates” run from 2009 was a serious moment for Gibson Custom Shop — a faithful recreation of arguably the most famous Les Paul on the planet. Aged by Tom Murphy and limited in number, these were never just another R9 variant.

Serial #034 puts this firmly in early-run territory, and condition-wise it presents exactly how a collector would want it — mint, complete with original case and even the outer cardboard shipping box. That alone is rare to see intact on these.

The spec is pure Pearly. One-piece mahogany back, beautifully flamed maple top, nylon nut, and of course the Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates set. Those pickups are key — they have that upper-mid push, slightly aggressive bite and harmonic richness that defines Billy’s tone. They’re hotter and more forward than a typical vintage-output PAF, but still articulate and dynamic.
 

The Murphy ageing is authentic and tasteful. It captures the worn, lived-in vibe of the original without looking artificial. Early Murphy work from this era has a depth and subtlety that many collectors prefer.
 

Neck carve is proper ’59 — substantial but comfortable. It fills the hand without being cumbersome. Exactly what you’d expect from a top-tier R9 platform.
 

This isn’t just a Les Paul.
 

It’s one of the most iconic artist recreations Gibson has ever produced — and finding one in true collector condition, complete with original packaging, is getting increasingly difficult.

• Mint collector condition.
• Factory Tom Murphy ageing only.
• No additional wear.
• Complete with original Gibson hard case and original outer cardboard box.

Part exchange welcome.

Video demos are available via our YouTube channel @ Squealing Pig Guitars

Personal consignment service available via our site at 10% rate.