1951 Gibson ES-350 Hollowbody Archtop

Gibson reserved the jumbo 17″ body size for their most expensive flagship guitars. This stunning early ES-350 clearly ranks as a premium Gibson model. The fancy ornamentation includes: gold hardware, oversized bound headstock, pearl inlaid Gibson logo, and three piece neck. The maple body features an all over sunburst finish.

The 1951 version of the ES-350 is a full depth hollow Electric Spanish guitar with a long scale length, very different to and more desirable than the later ES-350T model. The scale length measures 25 1/2″ to go with the oversized 17″ lower bout. The unique control layout uses a master tone control on the upper bout and two volume knobs on the lower bout. Blend the volumes between the P-90 pickups to dial in your tone for jazz, jump blues or rock n’ roll.

The previous owner played this ES-350 professionally. He wore the back of the neck smooth and the original case shows wear and tear from traveling to many gigs. New frets and a nut were recently installed, with plenty of fret life left. Aside from the refret, the guitar is original including the P-90 pickups, electronics, and gold Kluson tuners with original Keystone buttons. The size and craftsmanship make this ES-350 an impressive electric guitar from Gibson’s Golden Era.