Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $699
Standard/Professional
$400
$1001+
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Description
The 1968 Gibson SG is a legendary instrument that has carved its niche in rock history, beloved by iconic musicians and collectors alike. Known for its uniquely aggressive tone, this guitar is a testament to Gibson's innovative spirit and craftsmanship. Its lightweight, double-cutaway design provides ease of playability and access to the upper frets, making it a perfect choice for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
The mahogany body and neck, paired with a rosewood fingerboard, deliver a warm, resonant sound that complements its striking aesthetic. The SG’s distinct tonal character is largely due to its dual humbucking pickups, which provide a rich, full-bodied sound capable of handling anything from blues to hard rock. The 1968 SG also features a vibrato tailpiece, offering expressive pitch control for those daring solos or subtle vibrato effects.
Beyond its sound, the Gibson SG's sleek silhouette and prominent horned cutaways have become a visual icon in the music world, famously wielded by legends like Tony Iommi and Angus Young. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate collector, the 1968 Gibson SG offers a piece of rock history with every note played.
Key Features:
- Solid mahogany body and neck
- Rosewood fingerboard
- Dual humbucking pickups
- Double-cutaway design for enhanced fret access
- Vibrato tailpiece for expressive pitch control
Videos
goflemingo
Vintage 1968 Gibson SG Standard (Angus Young Model)
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson SG 1968.
Build quality
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Early 70s SGs often have a neck volute, adding structural stability at the headstock-neck joint.
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It's been noted that some 1968 SG models may have a "German carve," a contour not typically associated with this model, suggesting post-manufacture modifications.
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Solid color refinishing could conceal structural repairs, such as a headstock or neck break, affecting authenticity and resale value.
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Setup and maintenance
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Corroded potentiometers are common in these models; replacing them can improve reliability without major cost.
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Owners note that worn or misaligned nut slots can affect tuning stability, though it may just be a visual issue.
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The low E string being close to the fretboard edge suggests potential neck alignment or bridge setup issues that may require adjustment.
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Features and functionality
Value and pricing
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Several owners suggest that $1600 is too high for a poorly conditioned 1968 SG, with many recommending a purchase price closer to $500-$600, depending on the pickups.
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Refinishing significantly reduces value; $4400 is considered overpriced, with a fair range between $2700-$3300, depending on condition and refinishing quality.
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Mods and upgrades
Comparisons
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A new custom shop SG or a near-cost Murphy Lab is considered better value, as vintage models can be overpriced without guaranteeing superior playability.
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4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
This was James' first Guitar.
James bought this Guitar from a friend from high school who played with him in the school’s jazz band. His mother helped him out with the payment, which was around $200.
James used this Guitar to write some of his first songs and while playing in couple of high school bands. He would Later trade this guitar for his iconic, ''ELECTRA'' flying v copy.
The Headstock of this guitar can possibly be seen here.
Some of his favorites are early ’68 Gibson SG which had the fret inlays modified to the lightning bolts, and a selection of early to late 1960’s SG’s.
According to TheDoorsGuide.com, 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, "Robby Krieger started playing a red 1968 Gibson SG Standard in March 1968 and used it throughout the '68 summer tour."
This is verified by Gibson from this article.
"t would have to be my Cherry Red 1968 Gibson SG, which is just a really, really beautiful guitar, man. It’s got so many different tones within it. The neck is really thin, and it’s just a joy to play. It’s a very versatile guitar with a warm crunch to it. It’s also got a very silky, gentle sound as well."
The single-pickup 1968 Gibson SG, equipped with Bigsby, is used by Wilson for Barracuda, from at least 2002, as seen here. Also, at the back of the guitar there is US Marine Corps sticker, which is a hommage to father of Ann and Nancy Wilson, who served at the US Marine Corps.
"Brent Mason's Gear
Guitars Modifi ed ’68 Fender Telecaster, ’65 Fender Stratocaster, ’68 Gibson SG, ’76 Gibson ES-335, ’73 goldtop Gibson Les Paul, PRS David Grissom, PRS SE Mike Mushok Baritone, PRS 12-string acoustic"
His 1968 Gibson SG. "I finally earned enough money to buy one!" he says of purchasing the vintage instrument from Timeless Guitars in Parma. Greg Sage of the Wipers, Baldi's favorite band, plays the same style of guitar, and Baldi likes its "thick, beefy" sound.
The pelham blue 1968 Gibson SG was played by Lowery for the Chicago Music Exchange video. He described this guitar as the "Guitar he would've played if he wasn't a cheapskate."
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 Gibson SG 1968, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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