Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $4,799

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 19, 2026.

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Description

The Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS is a tribute to a legendary era of rock history, wrapped in modern craftsmanship. This iconic solid-body electric guitar merges vintage appeal with today's precision, making it a prized possession for any serious guitarist. Crafted by Gibson's Custom Shop, the Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS is revered for its '68 Custombucker humbuckers, delivering that classic, warm tone sought after by collectors and performers alike.

Constructed with a solid mahogany body and an arched maple top, this guitar offers a rich, resonant sound that is both powerful and articulate. Its neck, also made from mahogany, features a '68 medium C profile, providing a comfortable grip that's perfect for both rhythm and lead playing. The 22-fret ebony fingerboard, adorned with pearloid block inlays, not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances playability.

The attention to detail is evident with the multi-ply "aged" binding and the classic split diamond headstock inlay, while the no-wire ABR-1 bridge and aluminum stop bar ensure rock-solid tuning stability. Equipped with Kluson Waffle Back machine heads and gold-plated hardware, this guitar is as visually stunning as it is sonically impressive.

Whether you’re playing on stage or in the studio, the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS is a timeless instrument that delivers premium performance and unparalleled style.

Key Features:

  • Custom Shop model
  • Solid mahogany body with arched maple top
  • Mahogany neck with '68 medium C profile
  • Ebony fingerboard with pearloid block inlays
  • 22 frets and long neck tenon
  • 2 '68 Custombucker humbuckers
  • No-Wire ABR-1 bridge and aluminum stop bar
  • Kluson Waffle Back machine heads
  • Gold-plated hardware
  • Includes case and certificate
  • Made in USA

Product specs

Available since May 2019
Colour Black
Body Mahogany
Top Maple
Neck Mahogany
Fretboard Ebony
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo None
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No
Limited Run None
Model Les Paul 1968
Shape LP-Style
Pickup System HH

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS?

The Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS features a rounded neck profile, offering a comfortable grip that appeals to both traditionalists and modern players seeking a classic feel.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS?

The Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS is equipped with dual humbucker pickups, delivering a rich, warm tone with plenty of sustain, making it ideal for rock, blues, and jazz genres.

Is the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS suitable for beginners?

While the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS is a high-quality instrument, its premium features and price point are typically better suited for intermediate to advanced players who can fully appreciate its craftsmanship and tonal capabilities.

Does the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS includes a hard case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

What does VOS mean on the Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS?

VOS stands for Vintage Original Sheen, indicating that the guitar has a gently aged finish with lightly dulled gloss and some patina on the hardware, giving it a vintage look.

stationmusic

stationmusic

SOLD - Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS Ebony - #083348

Video thumbnail for SOLD - Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS Ebony - #083348 by stationmusic

SOLD - Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS Ebony - #083348

stationmusic

stationmusic

Video thumbnail for SOLD - Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS Ebony - #51268 by stationmusic

SOLD - Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS Ebony - #51268

stationmusic

stationmusic

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally bright and resonant sound due to maple cap and ebony fretboard

  • 68 custombuckers provide punchy and unique tonal clarity

  • Versatile across genres, from classic rock to light country

  • Stunning aesthetics with multi-ply binding and tri-burst finish

  • Holds tune remarkably well, even during intense play

  • Comfortable neck profile, not too slim or thick, for easy playability

  • Sounds great through a variety of amplifiers, including Marshalls and Mesas

  • Low action allows smooth bends while maintaining tone

  • Limited production run makes it a unique collector's item

  • Well-crafted with top-notch materials and impeccable craftsmanship

CONS

  • Heavier than many guitars, can be cumbersome during long gigs

  • Some users report hissy pickups, especially noticeable when not playing

  • Expensive, though considered worth the investment by many

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS.

Value and pricing

  • The value of the 1968 Les Paul Custom Reissue VOS can range from $2,599 to $8,000, depending on its condition and authenticity.

    Source
  • It's noted that the guitar's resale value drops by about $2,000 immediately after purchase but stabilizes thereafter.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 68 Reissue is praised for its amber tint on the entire guitar, including the binding and headstock face, enhancing its vintage aesthetic appeal.

    Source
  • The 68 Reissue uses hide-glue construction and Custombuckers, offering a sound reminiscent of a dressed-up '59 Standard, appealing to vintage tone enthusiasts.

    Source
  • The 1968 reissue attempts to improve the headstock angle for better tuning stability, contrasting with older models known for breaking more easily.

    Source

User experience

  • Reissue models are noted for their superior wood quality, contributing to a lighter and more resonant guitar compared to the weight-relieved regular Customs.

    Source
  • One owner regrets trading their Les Paul Custom due to its exceptional neck feel and standout neck pickup tone.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often swap the Gibson USA 490R and 498T pickups in regular Customs for alternatives like 57 Classics for a preferred tonal quality.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 68 Reissue applies a yellow-tinted, thinner nitro lacquer across the guitar, potentially leading to a unique aging process compared to the regular Les Paul Custom's clear lacquer.

    Source
  • Rusty screws and aged finishes are often due to the VOS process rather than actual age, impacting the guitar's aesthetic appeal.

    Source
  • Owners report the guitar is quite heavy, which may affect comfort during long playing sessions.

    Source
  • Some owners note that the serial number stamping may appear inconsistent or unusual, so verifying authenticity with Gibson is recommended.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1968 Reissue features historic specs like long neck tenon and ABR-1 bridge, unlike the regular Les Paul Custom with short neck tenon and Nashville TOM bridge.

    Source
  • Typically, the 1968 model features gold hardware in black, which might differ from other reissue models being mistaken for it.

    Source
  • Some users feel that Epiphone's '59 Standard offers comparable quality to Gibson's Les Paul Standard at a significantly lower price, although preferences vary.

    Source

Other

  • Some suggest purchasing used models for better value retention and potentially superior aging qualities compared to new ones.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The thick ebony fretboards are praised for their smooth playability and ability to maintain tuning stability over time.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Heafy uses Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS

Matt Heafy

Podcasters & Streamers, Guitarist

Trivium

...
Verified via YouTube

In his 2020 guitar collection video, Matt Heafy showcases his Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS.

See how Kurdt Vanderhoof uses Gibson Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS

Kurdt Vanderhoof

Guitarist

Metal Church

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

From Vintage Guitar Magazine online.

Q: "You’ve been a long-time Les Paul player."

A: "My main one is a ’68 black Custom, and I’ve had it a long time. My rig is pretty simple – a Marshall JCM900 and a 4×12 cab, straight in. I don’t use effects." Kurdt Vanderhoof

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 Les Paul Custom 1968 VOS, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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