1969 Les Paul Custom, Serial Number 559102

Shipped from Kalamazoo on April 3, 1969, this incredibly clean Les Paul Custom represents one of the most desirable early iterations of the models late-60s return. This example retains the construction features that make early-1969 Customs especially sought after: a one-piece mahogany body with a maple top (no pancake construction), a one-piece mahogany neck, and a 1950s-style long neck tenon. Additional details unique to this short production window include the headstock logo with no dot over the I and the open b and n lettering.

Finished in ebony nitrocellulose lacquer, the guitar presents beautifully with remarkably little playwear. There are very light nicks and dings along the top edge of the headstock, faint wear near the lower strap button, and minor surface marks consistent with careful handling over time. Gold hardware shows moderate tarnish with plenty of original plating remaining. A small split in the binding on the bass side of the headstock below the low E tuner is present but stable.

The neck features a comfortable Medium D profile measuring 0.89 at the 1st fret and 1.06 at the 12th. The ebony fretboard is a nice, dark example with mother-of-pearl block inlays, and a fantastic inside-the-binding refret by Glaser Instruments. A properly fitted replacement nylon nut was installed during the refret.

Electronics remain original and untouched. The Patent Number humbuckers read 7.25k in the neck and 7.22k in the bridge, delivering a smooth, balanced response with excellent clarity and articulation. The pickup covers have never been removed. The wiring harness remains original with CTS potentiometers and Sprague Black Beauty capacitors. While no full pot codes are visible, the partial codes present (xx76902, 13xxx01, xxx901) date to the first and second weeks of 1969 and are fully consistent with what would be expected for this model.

The original ABR-1 bridge had begun to sink slightly and is included in the case. An aged-to-match Custom wired ABR-1 with nylon saddles has been installed for proper intonation and stability. The only replaced component is a vintage cream switch tip to replace the missing original. The serial number was factory-stamped at a slight angle but is original and clearly legible.

Weighing 9.81 pounds, the guitar remains solid and well-balanced in the hand. The original black-and-goldenrod rectangle case is included and remains in very good condition, showing a repaired handle on one side and one missing latch. The guitar ships in a Deluxe Protector Series Les Paul case.

This instrument has received a professional setup and thorough inspection from Certified Vintage and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, Letter of Appraisal, and new Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Weight: 9.81 lbs.
Neck Depth: 1st fret: .89″; 12th fret: 1.06″