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Average Price: $11,150
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$500
$1201+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "1959 Gibson ES-345". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into a world of sonic versatility with the 1959 Gibson ES-345, a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that masterfully blends vintage charm with modern craftsmanship. Originally introduced as the more ornate sibling of the beloved ES-335, the ES-345 boasts a unique combination of style and sound that sets it apart. This reissue stays true to its roots, featuring the iconic "Mickey Mouse" cutaway and a solid center block that enhances sustain while fighting feedback—a true staple for performers in any genre.
Equipped with a pair of custom MHS Alnico pickups, the ES-345 offers a wide tonal palette to explore. Whether you're after smooth jazz vibes or gritty blues rock, the Varitone circuit adds an extra dimension, allowing players to unlock six distinct tonal variations. The neck's '59 profile, constructed with hot-hide glue, ensures a vintage feel, while the split parallelogram inlays and multi-ply binding enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Designed with the discerning musician in mind, this guitar features premium appointments like a thermally engineered maple center block and quarter-sawn Adirondack spruce bracing, providing a lightweight yet resonant playing experience. With its hand-wired control assembly and vintage tuners, the ES-345 delivers superior stability and playability, making it a cherished addition to any guitarist's collection.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design with iconic "Mickey Mouse" cutaway
- Solid center block for enhanced sustain and reduced feedback
- MHS Alnico pickups with individual volume and tone controls
- Varitone circuit offering six tonal variations
- Handcrafted with thermally engineered maple and Adirondack spruce bracing
- '59 neck profile with split parallelogram fingerboard inlays
- Vintage Deluxe tuners and lightweight aluminum bridge
- Includes hardshell case and Custom Shop Certificate of Authenticity
Product specs
| Brand | Gibson |
| Model | ES-345TD |
| Finish | Cherry, Natural, Sunburst |
| Year | 1959 - 1960 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars |
| Body Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Double Cutaway |
| Body Type | Semi-Hollow Body |
| Bridge/Tailpiece Type | Stop-Bar |
| Color Family | Brown, Red, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Gibson ES-345 |
| Model Sub-Family | Gibson ES-345 TD |
| Neck Construction | Set-Neck |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup Configuration | HH |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What makes the 1959 Gibson ES-345 unique compared to other semi-hollowbody guitars?
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The 1959 Gibson ES-345 features dual Gibson calibrated T-type humbuckers and a unique stereo output, offering a distinct tonal versatility. Its semi-hollowbody design with a laminated maple/poplar/maple construction provides a rich, resonant sound ideal for jazz, blues, and rock.
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Is the 1959 Gibson ES-345 suitable for jazz music?
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Yes, the 1959 Gibson ES-345 is well-suited for jazz music due to its warm, rich tones and semi-hollowbody construction, which enhances resonance and sustain. The dual humbuckers provide a smooth, mellow sound perfect for jazz guitarists.
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What kind of neck profile does the 1959 Gibson ES-345 have?
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The 1959 Gibson ES-345 features a 24.75"-scale mahogany neck with a set-neck construction, providing a comfortable, classic Gibson feel. The bound 22-fret rosewood fingerboard offers smooth playability and easy access to higher frets.
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How does the stereo output on the 1959 Gibson ES-345 work?
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The stereo output on the 1959 Gibson ES-345 allows players to split the signal from each pickup to separate amplifiers or channels, offering enhanced tonal flexibility. This feature is particularly useful for creating a wide stereo sound in live or recording settings.
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What kind of bridge does the 1959 Gibson ES-345 use?
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The 1959 Gibson ES-345 is equipped with an ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge paired with a stopbar tailpiece, providing excellent intonation and sustain. This setup is a classic feature of Gibson guitars, ensuring reliable performance and tuning stability.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson ES-345 | Guest Host: Joe Bonamassa | Norman's Rare Guitars
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1959 Gibson ES-345.
Features and functionality
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The Varitone switch cuts frequencies and is often bypassed or removed by players who find it less useful.
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The stereo feature can be used to connect to multiple amps, enhancing sound, as with a Twin Reverb and a Quad Reverb setup.
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The Varitone switch can add weight to the guitar, and some find only half of its positions useful.
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Use cases and applications
Build quality
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Some owners appreciate the split parallelogram fret markers on the 345 for their unique aesthetic appeal.
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Mods and upgrades
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A few players recommend considering the ES-347 for its ebony fretboards and coil-splitting capabilities as a reasonably priced alternative.
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Comparisons
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The ES-339 is noted for being more Les Paul-like due to its smaller size, appealing to those transitioning from solid bodies.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
360
41026
I am dying to lay my mits on a 345, but with the RI buy in its tempting to save up and buy an old one. Do you find yourself using the varitone much on stage?
360
I rarely use the Varitone. I considered a 335 because of this, but the wood in this one is spectacular.
41026
see, I like the varitone in the studio, but I asked about stage because I am not sure I can see myself reaching for it mid-song, its positioned so far from the bridge
Artist usage
Add artist
"1959 Gibson ES-345 I bought this guitar in 1997 for three thousand dollars from the original owner. It has only been used once in the studio and rarely live. Two PAF’s sound great. You can hear this guitar very clearly on my version of “So Many Roads” off the You and Me record." Taken from Joe Bonamassa's website.
Duane used this guitar with used with Hourglass, and on the Allman Brothers’ first album released in 1969.
Álvaro López acquired a 1959 Gibson ES-345, which he debuted during the "Ven Aquí" tour in Mexico in 2023. He continued to use this guitar throughout the Chile tour in 2024, including performances at the Viña del Mar Festival and the Estadio Nacional, as evidenced by the provided image.
Album Usage
The 1959 Gibson ES-345 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1959 Gibson ES-345, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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