Specs:
• Model: Gibson Custom Shop Art & Historic ’57 Les Paul Reissue
• Ageing: Tom Murphy Aged (Factory)
• Finish: Goldtop
• Body: Mahogany with Carved Maple Top
• Neck: Mahogany
• Neck Profile: Chunky ’57 Rounded
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 24.75"
• Pickups: Gibson Custombuckers (~8k output)
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic
• Tailpiece: Bigsby (Retrofit – Visible Holes)
• Tuners: Grover (Replaced Klusons)
• Routing: Modified for P90
• Year: 2003
• Condition: Modified / Excellent Overall
Personal Thoughts:
This one has lived a life.
It started as a 2003 Art & Historic ’57 Les Paul Reissue, factory aged by Tom Murphy — which in itself already puts it in a very desirable early-Murphy era bracket. Early 2000s Murphy work has a feel and authenticity that many collectors actively chase.
But this guitar didn’t stay stock.
At some stage it was upgraded with a Bigsby (leaving visible holes), Grovers replaced the original Klusons, and the pickup route was opened up to accommodate a P90. It now houses a set of Custombuckers measuring around 8k — notably hot, and very much in that Billy Gibbons wheelhouse of slightly wound-up PAF tone.
Now, the interesting part.
This guitar came from a high-end collector and was previously owned by Billy Gibbons himself, complete with his stickers and signature on the back. Unfortunately, there is no written provenance included. Because of that, we are not selling it as a verified Billy Gibbons instrument — and the price reflects that clearly.
However, between the modifications, the hotter Custombuckers, the Bigsby addition and the general vibe, it certainly aligns with how Billy has historically spec’d and altered his instruments.
Tonally, this thing has attitude. The Custombuckers push harder than your average low 7k PAF-style wind. There’s bite, midrange punch and sustain for days. The Bigsby adds that subtle shimmer when used lightly, and the chunky ’57 neck carve gives you that proper handful of mahogany.
This isn’t one for the purist collector wanting case-candy originality.
This is for someone who appreciates early Murphy ageing, rock ‘n’ roll history, and a Les Paul that’s clearly been part of something bigger.
Condition Report:
Factory Tom Murphy ageing from 2003.
Bigsby retrofit (visible holes).
Grover tuner replacement.
pickup route modified for P90 at some stage.
Currently fitted with hot Custombuckers (~8k).
Structurally solid. Plays and sounds excellent. No provenance included regarding previous ownership.
Part exchange welcome, video demos are available via our YouTube channel at Squealing Pig Guitars, personal consignment service available via our site at 10% rate.