Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$8,999.00
Guitar Center
$8,999.00
Reverb
$73,578.36 2 available Used
Musician's Friend
$8,999.00
zZounds
5.0 (5)
$3,699.00
Thomann
5.0 (1)
$7,699.00 $7,690.00 $9.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£8,599.00

Average Price: $18,661

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the rich legacy of rock 'n' roll with the Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar. Revered amongst musicians and collectors alike, this iconic instrument embodies a profound blend of history and craftsmanship. First taking the stage in the 1950s, the Goldtop's timeless elegance and robust sound have made it a staple in the music world. The 1957 model is especially cherished for introducing the powerful PAF humbucker pickups, a groundbreaking innovation that defined a new era in guitar sound.

Crafted with a solid mahogany body and topped with gleaming maple, this Les Paul delivers a resonant, sustained tone that is both warm and articulate. Its mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, while trapezoid inlays add a touch of vintage flair. The two PAF humbucker pickups are renowned for their vibrant, full-bodied sound, providing a versatile sonic palette suitable for any genre.

The guitar's aesthetic is completed by classic design elements such as Kluson deluxe tuners, a white pickguard, and a finely bound fingerboard. This instrument is not just a piece of history; it’s a testament to Gibson’s dedication to quality and innovation, cherished by legendary artists such as Jimmy Page and Slash.

Key Features:

  • Solid body with mahogany construction and maple top
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Two PAF humbucker pickups for a rich, dynamic sound
  • Trapezoid inlays and Kluson deluxe tuners
  • Gold finish with a white pickguard
  • Stopbar tailpiece and Tune-o-matic bridge for enhanced sustain and tuning stability

Product specs

Available since March 2021
Colour Gold
Body Mahogany
Top Maple
Neck Mahogany
Fretboard Rosewood
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo None
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No
Model Les Paul 1957
Shape Single Cut
Pickup System HH

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop?

The 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop is renowned for its warm, rich tones with a strong midrange presence, thanks to its mahogany body and maple top. The dual humbucker pickups provide a thick, creamy sound perfect for rock, blues, and jazz.

Is the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop suitable for beginners?

While the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop is a legendary instrument known for its quality and sound, it is typically more suited for experienced players due to its high value and historical significance.

What is the neck profile of the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop?

The 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop features a chunky neck profile, often referred to as a "baseball bat" shape, which provides a solid and substantial feel, preferred by many players for its comfort and playability.

Does the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop come with a tremolo system?

No, the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop does not include a tremolo system. It is designed with a fixed bridge, which contributes to its sustain and tuning stability.

How does the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop compare to other Les Paul models?

The 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop is highly prized for its historical significance and tonal quality, featuring early humbucker pickups that deliver a classic sound. It is often compared to later models for its unique neck profile and vintage aesthetics.

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

1957 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman by Chicago Music Exchange

1957 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top | CME Vintage Demo | Joel Bauman

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1957 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top | CME Vintage Demo | Alex Chadwick by Chicago Music Exchange

1957 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top | CME Vintage Demo | Alex Chadwick

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for César Díaz’s 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop and 1979 Marshall JMP by Emerald City Guitars

César Díaz’s 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop and 1979 Marshall JMP

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson Les Paul Standard Goldtop from 1957 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Gibson Les Paul Standard Goldtop from 1957 presented by Vintage Guitar Oldenburg and Tobias Hoffmann

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Vintage Guitar Oldenburg

Reviews

PROS

  • Iconic tone reminiscent of classic rock legends like Clapton and Page

  • Solid, expert vintage craftsmanship that stands the test of time

  • Distinctive gold finish that changes color at different angles, adding visual appeal

  • Beefy neck offers exceptional playability and comfort for seasoned players

  • Sustains notes impressively long, making it perfect for expressive solos

  • Versatile sound suitable for multiple genres: rock, blues, and country

  • Effortless playability; any challenges are likely user-related

  • High value for money as a historical Gibson model

  • Known as the "Cadillac" of guitars for its unmatched quality

CONS

  • Manufacturer support for parts and service can be lacking

  • Some players may find the neck too thick if used to slimmer models

  • Added piece of wood at neck-body joint may concern detail-oriented users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar.

Setup and maintenance

  • The neck on the '57 reissue is described as the thickest one user has played, providing a substantial feel and excellent for string bends and big vibratos.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 1957 Les Paul Goldtop features a humbucker pickup configuration, which was first introduced in the year 1957.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the '57 Goldtop reissue mention a preference for removing the pickguard, citing issues with the screws vibrating loose and aesthetic preferences.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1957 Goldtop's neck is noted to be much thicker compared to an SG, counteracting the neck-heavy feel some SGs have.

    Source
  • The middle humbucker on the '57 Black Beauty is rarely used by some owners, though it offers clean jazz tones when toggled between neck and middle pickups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The thick neck of the '57 reissue is praised for its ability to accommodate string bends and vibratos, making it suitable for expressive playing styles.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The JVM amp used with the Goldtop might be upgraded to a Blackstar Artisan A30 2X12 Combo for improved tone, though it requires high volume to achieve its best sound.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Vintage Bench Test: 1954 & 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtops

guitar.com

A vintage treasure trove of sonic delight, the 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop captures the essence of 50s craftsmanship with its articulate, precise tone and stunning sustain. While the low frets may challenge some players, the guitar's original features and extraordinary resonance deliver a captivating playing experience. Its PAF pickups offer a refined spectrum of tonal colors, making it a versatile choice for both blues and rock enthusiasts. Despite minor rewiring concerns, this Goldtop remains a testament to Gibson's golden era, blending vintage charm with modern playability.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 9 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Skrillex uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Skrillex

Music Producer

From First to Last

...
Verified via YouTube

Skrillex played this to record Dog Blood's Shred or Die, with Boys Noize.

See how Eddie Van Halen uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Eddie Van Halen

Guitarist

Van Halen

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, we can see Van Halen preforming live with a '57 Les Paul Goldtop. This Guitar appears to have the neck pickup gutted with only the bridge humbucker left in the body and aspite the neck pickup being removed the controls seem to be unaltered, however Van Halen might have disconnected some of the knobs (with a single volume pot being the bare minimum) and left them in for looks.

See how Johnny Marr uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Johnny-marr

Johnny Marr used the Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar on the Healers' "Boomslang" album. This guitar was also played by Ed O’Brien on Radiohead’s "In Rainbows." A photo of the guitar is available on Johnny Marr's official website.

See how Chris Shiflett uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Chris Shiflett

Guitarist

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Foo Fighters' Chris Shiflett Rig Rundown Guitar Gear Tour 2024" by Premier Guitar, Chris Shiflett is seen using a Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar at the 23:54 mark.

See how Duane Allman uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Duane Allman

Guitarist

The Allman Brothers Band

...
Verified via Groundguitar

This was Duane’s main guitar during the first year of the Allman Brothers Band, and he also used it on the recording sessions of “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs” with Eric Clapton. He eventually traded it for the 1959 Les Paul, but kept both PAF pickups from this one. After Duane’s death, the guitar changed a couple of hands before ending up with Scot LaMar who often borrows it to Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, Vince Gill and others for live performances.

See how Robben Ford uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Robben Ford

Guitarist, Composer

Yellowjackets

...
Verified via Vintageguitar

In this Vintage Guitar Magazine article, Robben Ford says this about his 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop: Q: "And you’ve got a couple of Les Pauls." A:"I have a ’55 that I’ve used a bit, like on “In The Beginning” and “I Can’t Stand The Rain” [Tiger Walk]. The variety of tones that come out of that guitar on that song is amazing. Really colorful instrument. I also have a ’57 goldtop that Larry Carlton gave me on long-term loan. It’s an amazing guitar."

See how Robin Finck uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Robin Finck

Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Guitargeek

Robin Finck is documented using a Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar in his 2014 Nine Inch Nails gear setup, as featured on Guitargeek.

See how Richie Faulkner uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Richie Faulkner

Guitarist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via Photo

In this post Richie says he's now the proud owner of a '57 Gibson Les Paul Gold Top. It's unclear whether it's a vintage original or a Custom Shop reissue model.

See how Justin Sandercoe uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Justin Sandercoe

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

in this lesson he is using gibson goldtop

See how Richey Edwards uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Richey Edwards

Guitarist

Manic Street Preachers

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo provided by Mirror, Richey Edwards is seen playing a Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar. This model is distinct from the 1956 version due to its different humbucker configuration.

See how Murray Cook uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Murray Cook

Singer, Guitarist

The Wiggles

...
Verified via Archive

He explains here: "At home or in the studio, my guitars are a '53 Les Paul gold top, '64 Fender Strat, James Burton Fender Telecaster, Maton Mastersound 500 and a more recent Les Paul. I also have a Fender Jazzman bass."

See how Nick Waterhouse uses Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar

Nick Waterhouse

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Play Les Paul in the 2014 'Holly' album.

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 Vintage 1957 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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