1960's Gibson SG Special

$3,299.00 Price Tier: High-end

1 Critic Review

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Page last updated Jun 22, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 22, 2026.

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5.0 (16)

$3,299.00 11 available Used

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Average Price: $3,299

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, 1960's Gibson SG Special is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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The 1960's Gibson SG Special is a timeless classic that has graced the hands of many legendary musicians. Originally crafted as a "mid-level" guitar, its appeal and performance have transcended generations. With a sleek set-neck mahogany body, the SG Special offers an unparalleled blend of playability and tone. This vintage icon is equipped with a pair of P-90 pickups, delivering a rich and dynamic sound that has become synonymous with the rock and blues genres. The guitar's three-way switching and individual volume and tone controls allow for versatile sound shaping, making it suitable for any musical journey.

What sets the SG Special apart is its historical significance and collectability. The early production models from 1961 to 1966, characterized by their smaller pickguard, are especially prized among collectors and enthusiasts. While it was never prominently featured in Gibson's catalogs, some of these guitars were uniquely shipped with a vibrola/vibrato tailpiece, adding a distinct flair to their aesthetic and functionality. The bound neck with dot inlays not only enhances the guitar's elegant appearance but also contributes to its smooth playability.

Whether you're a collector seeking a piece of musical history or a player looking for a guitar with character and soul, the 1960's Gibson SG Special offers an authentic vintage experience.

Key Features:

Set-neck mahogany construction
Pair of P-90 pickups for dynamic sound
Three-way switching with individual volume and tone controls
Bound neck with dot inlays
Smaller pickguard, characteristic of early models
Optional vibrola/vibrato tailpiece on select models

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	SG Special
Finish	Cherry, TV Yellow, White
Year	1961 - 1966
Made In	United States
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Double Cutaway
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Wrap-Around
Color Family	Red, White, Yellow
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Model Family	Gibson SG
Model Sub-Family	Gibson SG Special
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24.75"

FAQs

What type of pickups are found on a 1960's Gibson SG Special?: The 1960's Gibson SG Special is equipped with P-90 Soapbar single-coil pickups, known for their warm, crunchy tone that was a staple in early rock and roll music.
How does the neck profile of the 1960's Gibson SG Special feel for playing?: The 1960's Gibson SG Special features a slim neck profile, making it comfortable and fast for playing, which is ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
Is the 1960's Gibson SG Special suitable for beginners?: While the 1960's Gibson SG Special is a classic instrument with historical significance, its playability and iconic sound make it suitable for both beginners and seasoned players.
What are the tonal characteristics of the 1960's Gibson SG Special?: The 1960's Gibson SG Special offers a bright and punchy tone with a distinctive midrange, thanks to its P-90 pickups, making it versatile for various music styles, especially rock.
What materials are used in the construction of the 1960's Gibson SG Special?: The 1960's Gibson SG Special is constructed with a mahogany body and neck, and a rosewood fretboard, contributing to its rich tone and sustain.

Videos

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Justin Meyers – Nashville Guitarist

1960s Gibson SG Special + 1960 Gibson Les Paul Special Shootout with Tom Bukovac + Justin Meyers

Justin Meyers – Nashville Guitarist

Reviews

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PROS

Brazilian rosewood fretboard offers rich, warm tones and a smooth playing experience
P-90 pickups provide aggressive, chimey sound with excellent tonal variety
Lightweight design offers perfect balance and ease for lead playing
Vintage models, especially '61 and '64, are praised for unique neck profiles and playability
Wraparound bridge contributes to strong resonance and sustain
Highly resonant body enhances both acoustic and amplified sound quality
Can achieve versatile tones, covering Telecaster, Les Paul, and Jazzmaster territories
Vintage aesthetics with vibrant cherry finish and unique pickguard designs
Well-regarded for its historical significance and iconic sound, akin to classic rock tones

CONS

Some models have inconsistent tuner quality affecting tuning stability
Neck pickup lacks the flutey tones of a Les Paul or 335

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1960's Gibson SG Special.

Build quality

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The neck-binding on the 1960's Gibson SG Special is highly praised for its aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship.
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The color of the guitar is noted to change with lighting, likened to a glass of Cabernet with a dark side.
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Solid paint refinishing may obscure potential repairs, such as headstock or heel breaks, and diminish the guitar's value.
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Value and pricing

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These guitars typically range from $7-10k depending on condition and originality, with examples in great condition being on the lower end of this range.
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SG Specials have become more expensive due to being reissued to original specs, moving them from budget options to premium reissues.
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A user noted that SG Specials are now the more affordable option compared to the higher-priced SG Juniors, even on the used market.
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The guitar's refinishing and electronics modifications suggest its value should be around $2,700-$3,300, rather than the $4,400 asking price.
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User experience

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Owners find even well-used models to retain their shine and have minimal wear, with only small scratches and spots reported.
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One user reported the stock cherry finish on their modern SG Special as "perfect," indicating high satisfaction with its aesthetic appeal.
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Features and functionality

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The 1960's SG Special's dark cherry finish can appear almost purple in certain lighting, offering a unique aesthetic not common in other models.
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Comparisons

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Some owners choose '61 Standards over SG Specials for a more comprehensive reissue experience, despite interest in P90s.
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A new custom shop SG or a Murphy Lab model may offer better value compared to an overpriced, modified vintage SG Special.
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Setup and maintenance

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Some users report a misaligned neck or bridge, causing the low E string to fall off the fretboard.
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Mods and upgrades

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One user improved playability by installing a Music City Savvy bridge and using flatwound 9s strings.
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Critic Reviews

The SG Special Is One of Gibson's Most Overlooked Guitars - Here's What You Need to Know | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

The 1960s Gibson SG Special is a hidden gem, often overshadowed by its more famous siblings. Celebrated for its raw, gritty tone and affordability, it's a favorite among punk and garage rockers. The guitar features a sleek double-cutaway design, Honduran mahogany body, and powerful P-90 pickups, offering a dynamic range of tones. Despite concerns about neck stability due to its design, the SG Special's robust build and sound quality shine. While originals are climbing in value, they remain a more accessible vintage option compared to other Gibson classics. A must-consider for those seeking vintage vibe and punchy sound.

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