Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $5,611

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar is an audacious blend of vintage charm and modern playability. Faithfully recreated from the highly collectible 1965 model, this guitar captures the essence of a legendary era with its radically sculpted mahogany body and set-neck construction. Its unique non-reverse design, originally envisioned by automotive designer Ray Dietrich, ensures that you'll make a striking impression on any stage.

Equipped with Alnico V-loaded Firebird humbuckers, this guitar delivers a vibrant sonic palette full of sparkle and jangle, perfect for those seeking a distinctive tone. The pickups are complemented by a handwired harness featuring CTS potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors, allowing for precise control over your sound. With a traditional 1960s SlimTaper neck profile and a wider nut width, it provides a modern twist on classic comfort, making it easier to navigate the 22-fret Indian rosewood fingerboard.

Designed with premium hardware, including an ABR-1 bridge, 12-string claw tailpiece, and Kluson tuners, the Firebird V-12 is as reliable as it is visually captivating. The guitar's aesthetic is further enhanced with a mother-of-pearl diamond headstock inlay and a VOS nitrocellulose lacquer finish, making it a stunning addition to any collection.

Key Features:

  • Radically sculpted mahogany body with set-neck construction
  • Alnico V-loaded Firebird humbuckers for vibrant sparkle and chime
  • Handwired harness with CTS potentiometers and Bumblebee capacitors
  • Comfortable 1960s SlimTaper neck profile with wider nut width
  • 22-fret Indian rosewood fingerboard
  • ABR-1 bridge, 12-string claw tailpiece, and Kluson tuners
  • Mother-of-pearl diamond headstock inlay and VOS nitrocellulose lacquer finish

Product specs

Number of Strings 12
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V
Body Material Mahogany
Body Finish VOS
Neck Material Mahogany
Neck Shape Traditional 1960s Slim Taper
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Material Indian Rosewood
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets 22
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.6875"
Nut Material Corian
Bridge/Tailpiece ABR-1 bridge with 12-string claw tailpiece
Tuners Kluson 6 + 6
Neck Pickup Firebird Alnico 5 Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Firebird Alnico 5 Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 2 x tone
Switching 3-way slide pickup switch
Strings Gibson 12-strings
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar?

The neck profile of this guitar is a traditional 1960s Slim Taper, which provides a comfortable and fast playing experience, ideal for intricate fingerwork and extended playing sessions.

What type of pickups are installed in the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string?

This guitar features Firebird Alnico 5 Humbucker pickups, known for their bright, clear tone with a balanced output, suitable for a variety of musical styles.

Is the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string suitable for live performances?

Yes, the solid mahogany body and dual humbuckers provide robust sound projection and clarity, making it well-suited for live gigs.

Does the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string come with a case?

Yes, this guitar comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection during transport and storage.

How does the 12-string configuration affect the sound of the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V?

The 12-string setup provides a rich, full-bodied sound with natural chorus effects, enhancing the harmonic depth and texture of your music.

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Hear the Pure Sound of the Gibson Custom 1965 Firebird V 12-String | Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for Hear the Pure Sound of the Gibson Custom 1965 Firebird V 12-String | Cream City Music by Cream City Music

Hear the Pure Sound of the Gibson Custom 1965 Firebird V 12-String | Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar.

Features and functionality

  • Firebird pickups have a smoother tone, lacking the sharpness of traditional minis or P90s, suitable for clean, fluid sounds with light fuzz.

    Source
  • Firebird V 12-string's humbuckers aren't ideal for high-gain applications, preferring smoother, clear tones.

    Source

User experience

  • Larger body size feels awkward sitting down, especially for average-sized individuals; may feel more like a bass.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the importance of revisiting the guitar's size and fit due to its large dimensions.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gibson Custom Shop 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V 12-String Reissue review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The Gibson Custom 1965 Non-Reverse Firebird V 12-string reissue stands out with its stunning craftsmanship and superb 12-string tones, making it a stylish choice for those yearning for that iconic jangle and chime. While the guitar offers excellent upper-fret access and remains remarkably in tune, it's not without its quirks; the intonation can be tricky due to the bridge design. Additionally, its sky-high price tag might deter potential buyers. However, for those willing to splurge, it promises a unique playing experience, especially with its wider nut enhancing playability. A must-consider for serious 12-string enthusiasts.

positive

“Sparkle, jangle and chime, refined”: Gibson’s Non-Reverse Firebird V 12-string revives an ultra-collectible model from 1965 – with a crucial upgrade | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Jared James Nichols uses Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar

Jared James Nichols

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Jared James Nichols is confirmed to use the Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar, as seen in the YouTube video titled "The Funkiest Firebird Ever!" by Music Villa. In the video, Nichols is featured playing the guitar and exploring its different tone profiles.

See how Jess Carson uses Gibson Custom 1965 Non-reverse Firebird V 12-string Electric Guitar

Jess Carson

Singer, Guitarist

Midland

...
Verified via reverb.com
Color/Finish: Silver Mist Year: 1967

I love rare and weird guitars and this is certainly both. In fact, I didn't know that these even existed until I found this one. Something about the non-reverse body with the 12-string headstock is just so cool. It's really fun to play and people freak out on it. Johnny Winter actually played a Polaris White one of these.

I toured with it extensively -paired with the original mini-humbuckers it has that ultimate vintage jangle. Original except for a refin (was originally tobacco burst) and pro-refret.

Genre Usage

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