The Gibson Government Series SG was introduced in 2013 as a limited-edition model, marking a unique chapter in the brand’s history. This release was inspired by a 2011 legal dispute in which Gibson was investigated for allegedly using illegally sourced woods. Although the case was settled without criminal charges, the situation highlighted concerns over the sourcing of materials like Madagascar ebony. As part of the settlement, Gibson forfeited the questionable wood and paid a $300,000 fine. The case underscored the broader issue of over-harvesting, which has contributed to the scarcity of woods like Brazilian rosewood.

The Government Series SG was built using fretboards and necks that had been confiscated, cleared, and returned. Some guitars even feature serial numbers from 2011 due to the timing of their materials. The first series, released in 2013, was limited to 175 units and featured an Olive Green finish. A second run followed in 2014 with 300 units, distinguished by a different finish. Both versions came with a certificate of authenticity (COA) and a hardshell case—Olive Green for Series I and Black for Series II. These guitars remain a rare and intriguing piece of Gibson’s legacy.

This SG is in great condition with only very minor playwear. There's a small ding on the front near the tailpiece and some holo scratches on the pickguard. The guitar is very resonant and plays as smooth as you can expect form an SG.

Serial: #128830588

Specifications

• Body: Solid mahogany, nitrocellulose lacquer finish
• Neck: 1-piece mahogany, '50s rounded profile, set-in construction
• Fretboard: Indian rosewood, 12" radius, 22 medium-jumbo frets
• Scale Length: 24 9/16", 1 11/16" Corian nut (Plek-cut)
• Pickups: Dual Dirty Fingers+ humbuckers (ceramic magnets, ~16k Ohms D.C.R.)
• Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone (CTS 500k pots), 3-way switch
• Hardware: Black hardware, Grover Rotomatic tuners (14:1), Zamak Tune-O-Matic bridge & stopbar
• Other: 5-ply "Batwing" pickguard with Government Series Eagle hot stamp