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Average Price: $3,299
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Description
Step into the golden era of rock with the 1964 Gibson SG Special, a timeless icon known for its raw power and distinctive style. Originally introduced as a "mid-level" guitar, this vintage gem has since become a highly sought-after piece for collectors and musicians alike. Its set-neck construction, crafted from rich mahogany, offers unparalleled sustain and resonance, making it a favorite among legendary guitarists. The P-90 pickups deliver a punchy, bright tone with a touch of grit, perfect for cutting through the mix in any setting. Whether you're looking to recreate classic rock tones or explore new sonic territories, the SG Special provides a versatile platform.
This particular model is celebrated not only for its sound but also for its aesthetic appeal. The bound neck with dot inlays and the smaller pickguard are distinguishing features that set it apart from later iterations. While the 1964 SG Special was not prominently featured in Gibson catalogs, some units were shipped with a vibrola/vibrato tailpiece, adding a unique flair to these rare instruments.
With its combination of vintage charm and unmatched playability, the 1964 Gibson SG Special is more than just an instrument—it's a piece of music history that continues to inspire.
Key Features:
- Year: 1964
- Set-neck mahogany body
- P-90 pickups
- Three-way pickup switching
- Individual volume and tone controls
- Bound neck with dot inlays
- Smaller pickguard design
- 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
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What are the key tonal characteristics of the 1964 Gibson SG Special?
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The 1964 Gibson SG Special is known for its bright, punchy tone, largely due to its P90 single-coil pickups. It offers a raw, gritty sound that excels in rock and blues genres, with a distinctive midrange presence.
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Is the 1964 Gibson SG Special suitable for beginners?
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While the 1964 Gibson SG Special is a classic instrument with a rich history, its vintage nature and specific tonal qualities may be better appreciated by intermediate to advanced players who can fully utilize its unique sound.
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What type of neck profile does the 1964 Gibson SG Special have?
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The 1964 Gibson SG Special features a slim-taper neck profile, which provides a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for players who prefer a thinner neck for easier fretting and faster playing.
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How does the 1964 Gibson SG Special compare to the SG Standard?
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The 1964 Gibson SG Special is equipped with P90 single-coil pickups, offering a brighter, more aggressive tone compared to the humbuckers on the SG Standard. Additionally, the SG Special typically features dot inlays and a wrap-around bridge.
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What finish options are available for the 1964 Gibson SG Special?
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The 1964 Gibson SG Special is available in Cherry, TV Yellow, and White finishes, each offering a classic and visually appealing look that complements its vintage design.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
1964 Gibson SG Special Cherry | Guitar of the Day
1964 Gibson SG Special Cherry | Guitar of the Day
Normans Rare Guitars
1964 Gibson SG Special - Atoyboy Guitars
ATB Guitars
1964 Gibson SG Special
Know Your Vintage Guitars
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fatguitarggg
1964 Gibson SG Special
Vintage 'n' Rare Guitars
Reviews
PROS
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Brazilian rosewood fretboard offers a unique, rich tonal quality
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Original P-90 pickups deliver powerful, dynamic sound
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Lightweight design with excellent balance for comfortable playability
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Neck fits comfortably, providing smooth playability
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Vintage charm with vibrant cherry finish and natural lacquer checking
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Versatile sound covers Tele, Les Paul, and Jazzmaster tones
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Exceptional resonance and acoustic volume
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1964 model renowned for its distinctive thicker neck
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Excellent sustain with a wraparound bridge
CONS
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Tuners may not hold tuning well
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Neck pickup lacks flutey tones compared to a Les Paul or 335
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Some rough fret finishing and tool markings noted
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1964 Gibson SG Special.
Mods and upgrades
Features and functionality
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The stock bridge for a 1964 SG Special would typically be a lightning bar, often designed for a wound G string.
Source -
The '64 SG model is sometimes referred to as the George Harrison SG, indicating its historical and musical significance.
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The Tony Iommi model often features dot inlays and 22 frets, differing from earlier models with cross inlays and 24 frets.
Source
Comparisons
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The Gibson Custom Shop ‘64 SG is noted for its inclusion of a trem system, although hardtail versions have been offered by Chicago Music Exchange.
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A desired blend is a ‘61 SG body paired with a fatter ‘59 LP neck, as seen in a limited edition model, appealing to those seeking a specific feel and aesthetic.
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The Tony Iommi model is essentially a modified 1964 SG Special, with the same electronics but a different neck shape than the Gibson USA Les Paul Special.
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Burstbucker pickups in the '61 SG offer a distinct tone, preferred by some over signature model pickups, which can feel like playing "someone else's guitar."
Source
User experience
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One owner expressed a strong attachment to their Custom Shop SG, highlighting its lasting value and desirability.
Source
Value and pricing
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Discounts of 10-20% are commonly available on SG Specials, especially during holiday sales, making them a cost-effective choice for P90 enthusiasts.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Eric Johnson sometimes plays a 1964 Gibson SG. "I've been using that for more of the Gibson tone," he said in this Premier Guitar interview at (1:55). "I've kind of gotten used to making the shift [between Fender and Gibson] over the years. I remember when I first started playing Fenders it bothered me a lot. It was like, "this is really hard to play" but now it's a little easier to make the shift," he said.
“The P-90s really filled up a lot of sonic real estate. The humbucker gives you a very pointed attack, and the P-90s are much more wild and open. So both of them together did something really cool.” - Daron Malakian.
Per The Doors Guide website - a website that aims to be the ultimate resource for one of the most innovative bands to come out of the west coast music scene in the late 1960s — THE DOORS":
"Robby Krieger plays a red 1964 Gibson SG Special with P-90 pickups on the first two Doors albums and for a bulk of the group's live shows from 1966-1970 (later with an added tremolo bar). Sadly, this legendary guitar was stolen and remains missing. I have the guitar's original serial number so anyone who believes they've found it can contact me for confirmation. Note: Robby sometimes incorrectly refers to this as a '64 Gibson Melody Maker."
Album Usage
The 1964 Gibson SG Special 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 1964 Gibson SG Special, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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