Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (41)
$1,799.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (38)
$1,799.00
Musician's Friend
5.0 (5)
$1,799.00
zZounds
5.0 (22)
$1,799.00
Thomann
4.8 (51)
$1,459.00 $1,444.00 $15.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£1,331.00

Average Price: $1,728

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "1997 Gibson SG Standard". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the world of classic rock with the 1997 Gibson SG Standard, an electric guitar that has been the heart and soul of legendary performances. Since its inception in 1961, the SG Standard has been synonymous with power and presence, making it a staple for musicians who want to leave a mark. Its sleek and agile design is more than just aesthetic; it's crafted for those who crave speed and precision.

The SG Standard's solid mahogany body is the cornerstone of its rich, resonant tone. This guitar does more than just speak—it roars, thanks to the 490R and 490T Alnico II humbuckers. These pickups deliver a versatile range of sounds, from sultry blues to a razor-sharp rock edge, embodying the spirit of iconic riffs and solos. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or unleashing energy on stage, this guitar's dynamic soundscape will ensure your performance is unforgettable.

Designed for musicians by musicians, the SG Standard features the classic Gibson control layout—two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a three-way toggle switch—offering intuitive and versatile sound shaping. The rounded mahogany neck and bound rosewood fingerboard ensure a comfortable and smooth playing experience across all 22 frets. With robust hardware like the Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, this guitar promises durability and precision.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body for rich tonal depth
  • 490R and 490T Alnico II humbuckers for versatile sound
  • Classic Gibson control layout with two volume and two tone knobs
  • Rounded mahogany neck with bound rosewood fingerboard
  • 22 frets for expansive playability
  • Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece for stable intonation and sustain
  • Iconic design with a legacy in rock history

Product specs

Body type Solid body
Body wood Mahogany
Pickguard Black 5-ply full-face
Construction Long-tenon neck joint
Neck wood Mahogany
Neck profile Rounded
Scale length 24.75"
Fingerboard wood Rosewood
Number of frets 22
Fingerboard binding Single-ply
Inlays Dot
Configuration HH
Neck pickup 490R Alnico II
Bridge pickup 490T Alnico II
Controls Two volume, two tone
Pickup selector Three-way toggle switch
Bridge Tune-o-matic
Tailpiece Stopbar
Tuning machines Vintage Deluxe
Hardware finish Nickel
Orientation Right-handed
Case Softshell

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony's pickups?

The 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony features 490R and 490T Alnico II pickups, known for delivering a powerful, classic rock tone with a warm, smooth character and excellent midrange response.

How does the neck profile of the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony affect playability?

The rounded mahogany neck profile provides smooth playability and lasting comfort, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing styles.

Is the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony suitable for beginners?

While the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony offers professional features like a solid mahogany body and high-quality pickups, its comfortable neck and classic design make it accessible for dedicated beginners as well.

Does the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony come with a case?

Yes, the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony comes with a softshell case, offering lightweight protection during transport and storage.

What is the benefit of the long-tenon neck joint on the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony?

The long-tenon neck joint enhances stability and maximizes resonance, contributing to the guitar's iconic sustain and tonal richness.

How many frets are on the 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony, and what is the fingerboard made from?

The 1997 Gibson SG Standard Ebony has 22 frets and features a rosewood fingerboard, known for its smooth feel and warm tonal response.

Ake-G43

Ake-G43

GIBSON SG STANDARD EBONY 1997 CLEAN

Video thumbnail for GIBSON SG STANDARD EBONY 1997 CLEAN by Ake-G43

GIBSON SG STANDARD EBONY 1997 CLEAN

Ake-G43

Ake-G43

Video thumbnail for GIBSON SG STANDARD EBONY 1997 DRIVE by Ake-G43

GIBSON SG STANDARD EBONY 1997 DRIVE

Ake-G43

Ake-G43

Video thumbnail for 1997 Gibson SG Std. Part1 by GregsGuitars

1997 Gibson SG Std. Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for 1997 Gibson SG Standard - Jam #4 by Moises Martins

1997 Gibson SG Standard - Jam #4

Moises Martins

Moises Martins

Video thumbnail for 1997 Gibson SG Std. Par2 by GregsGuitars

1997 Gibson SG Std. Par2

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1997 Gibson SG Standard.

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the SG Standard's weight and balance, noting it is light and comfortable to play for extended periods.

    Source
  • The nitro finish can react with certain fabrics, which may lead to unwanted wear or discoloration over time.

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  • Some owners report wavy finishes that are prone to checking prematurely, indicating potential issues with the quality of the paint job.

    Source
  • Reports of finish chips reaching bare mahogany around tailpiece posts suggest potential vulnerabilities in the guitar's finish durability.

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Features and functionality

  • The SG Standard in ebony comes with a gig bag that is highly praised for its quality and protection.

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  • The guitar typically features an Indian rosewood fretboard, which is noted for its smooth playability.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is favored for classic rock tones, especially when paired with a mini Mesa Boogie amp.

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Value and pricing

  • SG Specials can be found for as little as $500 in the used market if buyers are patient and search in places like pawn shops and estate sales.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite cosmetic flaws, many owners are drawn to the SG for its playability and tone, reminiscent of classic 60s models.

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  • The SG may not stay in tune as well as less expensive brands, like certain Squier models, highlighting potential tuning stability issues.

    Source

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