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Average Price: $11,150

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$500

$1201+

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Price History

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

What makes the 1959 Gibson ES-345 unique compared to other semi-hollowbody guitars?

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.

Is the 1959 Gibson ES-345 suitable for jazz music?

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.

What kind of neck profile does the 1959 Gibson ES-345 have?

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.

How does the stereo output on the 1959 Gibson ES-345 work?

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.

What kind of bridge does the 1959 Gibson ES-345 use?

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.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson ES-345 | Guest Host: Joe Bonamassa | Norman's Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson ES-345 | Guest Host: Joe Bonamassa | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Gibson ES-345 | Guest Host: Joe Bonamassa | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gibson ES-345TD Sunburst | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1959 Gibson ES-345TD Sunburst | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1959 Gibson ES-345 and Friedman Smallbox 50 by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1959 Gibson ES-345 and Friedman Smallbox 50

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gibson ES 345TD | CME Quick RiffS | Ariel Posen by Chicago Music Exchange

1959 Gibson ES 345TD | CME Quick RiffS | Ariel Posen

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for 1959 Gibson ES-345 - Phil's Vintage Guitars by Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

1959 Gibson ES-345 - Phil's Vintage Guitars

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

Phil's Vintage Guitars Original

Video thumbnail for Tobin plays a killer 1959 Gibson ES-345! by Rumble Seat Music

Tobin plays a killer 1959 Gibson ES-345!

Rumble Seat Music

Rumble Seat Music

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

  • The Varitone switch cuts frequencies and is often bypassed or removed by players who find it less useful.

    Source
  • The stereo feature can be used to connect to multiple amps, enhancing sound, as with a Twin Reverb and a Quad Reverb setup.

    Source
  • The Varitone switch can add weight to the guitar, and some find only half of its positions useful.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's tonal versatility, including the Varitone, was famously utilized by B.B. King.

    Source
  • Owners praise the 1959 ES-345 for blues, soul, funk, RnB, and jazz, especially when used with tube combos between 5W and 25W.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners appreciate the split parallelogram fret markers on the 345 for their unique aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A few players recommend considering the ES-347 for its ebony fretboards and coil-splitting capabilities as a reasonably priced alternative.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ES-339 is noted for being more Les Paul-like due to its smaller size, appealing to those transitioning from solid bodies.

    Source

User experience

  • Aesthetically, some prefer the 345 for its availability in black, a color traditionally offered with the model.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson ES-345: stereo guitar that went Back to the Future | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Gibson ES-345 is a classic piece of gear with a rich history, positioned between the revolutionary ES-335 and the upscale ES-355. Known for its stereo pickup configuration and Vari-tone circuitry, it offers a unique sonic signature. The aesthetics, featuring distinct double-parallelogram fretboard inlays, are a visual treat. However, the need for a special 'Y' cable for stereo functionality and the additional weight of the Vari-tone system are practical drawbacks. While the ES-345 didn't achieve the same popularity as the ES-335, it remains a cherished model for those seeking vintage charm without modern modifications.

Unveiling Elegance and Sound: The 1959 Gibson ES-345 Guitar - A Comprehensive Review

edgewaterguitars.com

The 1959 Gibson ES-345 is celebrated as a vintage masterpiece, blending elegant design with exceptional sound. Its semi-hollow body delivers a warm, versatile tone, complemented by unique features like the Varitone switch and stereo outputs, which provide a vast tonal range. Iconic inlays and PAF humbucker pickups add to its visual and auditory appeal. Although the review lauds its historical significance and influence, it overlooks any potential drawbacks, focusing solely on its collectibility and timeless allure. Overall, this review paints the 1959 ES-345 as a must-have gem for musicians and collectors.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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andre_scott

Note bloom

Very lively. Notes just leap out of this guitar. One of my favourites to gig.

jimmarchi1

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?

andre_scott

I rarely use the Varitone. I considered a 335 because of this, but the wood in this one is spectacular.

jimmarchi1

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
See how Joe Bonamassa uses 1959 Gibson ES-345

Joe Bonamassa

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

"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.

See how Duane Allman uses 1959 Gibson ES-345

Duane Allman

Guitarist

The Allman Brothers Band

...
Verified via Groundguitar

Duane used this guitar with used with Hourglass, and on the Allman Brothers’ first album released in 1969.

See how Álvaro López uses 1959 Gibson ES-345

Álvaro López

Singer, Guitarist

Los Bunkers

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Franny Beecher uses 1959 Gibson ES-345

Franny Beecher

Guitarist

Bill Haley & His Comets

...
Verified via Photo

Franny Beecher is known to have played a rare black 1959 Gibson ES-345, as depicted in a photograph available on PhotoBucket. The current whereabouts of this guitar remain unknown.

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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