1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse main image

1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse

$5,000.00 to $9,799.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (4)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

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2 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 01, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated June 22, 2026.

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Price

$9,799.00

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5.0 (7)

$5,000.00 12 available Used

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Average Price: $7,400

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse is a distinctive blend of innovation and tradition, capturing the essence of mid-60s electric guitar evolution. This model marks a significant departure from its predecessors with its non-reverse body shape, offering a more streamlined and simplified construction. Ideal for enthusiasts and collectors alike, the Firebird I boasts a set-neck design, ensuring it is both lightweight and comfortable to play. The guitar is equipped with a pair of P-90 pickups, delivering that iconic, gritty tone that defined an era of rock 'n' roll. Its unbound neck and dot inlays add to the vintage aesthetic, while the short vibrola tailpiece allows for expressive pitch modulation.

Available in the classic Sunburst finish as well as an array of vibrant custom colors, each Firebird I is a unique piece of musical history. Whether you're a performer seeking that classic sound or a collector looking for an iconic piece, the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse stands as a testament to Gibson's innovative spirit during a transformative period in musical history.

Key Features:

Non-Reverse body shape
Pair of P-90 pickups for classic, gritty tone
Set-neck construction for comfort and playability
Short vibrola tailpiece for expressive pitch modulation
Unbound neck with dot inlays
Available in Sunburst and custom colors

Product specs

Brand	Gibson
Model	Firebird I Non-Reverse
Finish	Cardinal Red, Inverness Green, Pelham Blue, Polaris White, Sunburst
Year	1965 - 1969
Made In	United States
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Double Cutaway
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Blue, Brown, Green, Red, White
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Model Family	Gibson Firebird
Model Sub-Family	Gibson Firebird I Non Reverse
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	HH
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24.75"

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse pickups?: The 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse features dual humbucker pickups known for their bright and clear highs, coupled with full, tight lows, offering a tone that blends the qualities of single coils and humbuckers.
Is the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse suitable for beginners?: While the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse is a classic instrument with a rich history, its unique design and vintage features may be better suited for experienced players who appreciate its specific tonal qualities and historical significance.
What is the neck profile like on the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse?: The 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience that is typical of vintage Gibson guitars.
How does the mahogany body of the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse affect its sound?: The mahogany body of the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse contributes to a warm, resonant tone with a strong midrange presence, which is ideal for rock and blues styles.
What finish options are available for the 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse?: The 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse is available in several finish options, including Cardinal Red, Inverness Green, Pelham Blue, Polaris White, and Sunburst, allowing for a range of aesthetic preferences.

Videos

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Normans Rare Guitars

1967 Gibson Non-Reverse Firebird I | Guitar of the Day

Normans Rare Guitars

1965 Gibson Firebird I "Non-Reverse"

fatguitarggg

Gibson 1965 Non Reverse Firebird I(Tano Guitars & Lab)

ikisugita_DIY

1965 Gibson Firebird I non reversed (not for sale), Part1

GregsGuitars

Reviews

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PROS

Equipped with prized P90 pickups for punchy rock and blues tones
Unique and rare design makes it stand out on stage
Light and comfortable with a balanced body for easy playability
Versatile sound, from clean tones to powerful chords
Mid-60s Gibson neck shape offers great playability and access
Vintage appeal with a distinct 1960s rock and roll vibe
Repairs and modifications can significantly lower the price without affecting playability
Not prone to tuning issues despite neck repairs
Vintage mahogany body contributes to its lightweight feel and warm tone

CONS

Long headstock is a weak point, prone to breaking
High price compared to more common vintage models like the SG
Replacement parts and repairs may be necessary due to age
Primitive tremolo system may not suit all players
Pickguard and other small components may require replacement due to wear

Critic Reviews

Gibson Non-Reverse Firebirds: everything you need to know | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse may captivate with its unique aesthetics and P-90 pickups, but it struggles to deliver consistent performance. While the design offers a refreshing departure from standard models, the sound lacks the punch expected from a Gibson, leaving some players wanting more. Additionally, its historical context reveals a lack of commercial success, which may raise questions about its long-term value. For those seeking a distinctive look, this guitar might fit the bill, but players looking for robust tonal quality may be disappointed. Ultimately, it's a mixed bag that doesn't quite soar as high as the brand's legacy suggests.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

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yarns

over 1 year ago

Solid Guitar Just Feels and Plays Like a Guitar Should

Over the years I would come across a guitar that played so nice I had to have it. I never thought I'd find a better guitar until i held this one. Screws in the pick guard were too close to the edges and cracked the plastic so I had a new one made, and replaced the selector switch, bit of a clean up and I would love to play a better guitar if i ever find one in my lifetime. Just magic, and these were the bottom of the line so I guess there might be better ones out there. This was in great condition, like i said the pick guard cracked, and there were some belt buckle scrapes on the back but other than needing the action setup for my tuning, it was perfect to play. Great P90 pups, the tremolo or whammy bar is primitive but functional (I don't use it though) and it stays in tune nicely. great for a 50+ year old piece of wood!

Preferred Settings + Usage:

All knobs to 10, select pickup to suit context. go go go

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Rock Blues Metal

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

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Billie Joe Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

Verified via Photo

Billie Joe Armstrong played a Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse during the Revolution Radio tour, as shown in his Instagram post celebrating a performance in Salt Lake.

Scott Holiday

Guitarist

Rival Sons

Verified via YouTube

In this source video, Scott Holiday recalles the usage of the 1965 Non Reverse Firebird I guitar.

Andy Bell

Guitarist, Bassist

Oasis

Verified via YouTube

In the live performance of "Leave Them All Behind" at Brixton Academy on March 27, 1992, Andy Bell is seen playing a 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse. This guitar is notably different from the one used by Gem Archer, as seen by the distinct key selector. The performance is available on the RideOfficial YouTube channel at the 1:45 mark.

Charlie Starr

Guitarist

Blackberry Smoke

Verified via YouTube

In a live performance by Blackberry Smoke on September 9, 2016, at the Fillmore Silver Spring, Maryland, Charlie Starr can be seen playing a 1965 Gibson Firebird I Non-Reverse. This footage is available on Boleslaw's Deep Purple Family Fan Channel on YouTube.

Tom Bukovac

Guitarist

Trip the Witch

Verified via YouTube

At 13:38 John hands Tom his red Firebird, as he begins to say a little about his love for them.

"I'm a big Firebird freak... I like both the reverse and the non-reverse... this guitar is absolutely magic."

"This guitar was not like this when I first got it, and I've spent tons of time and money making it killer..."

Tom mentions this guitar has the set of P90 pickups he would consider his absolute favourite of all time, after playing many different P90 equipped instruments.

at 14:34 Tom details some of the issues these guitars are known to have, and some solutions he invested in to make this Firebird more to his liking.