If an original 1959 Les Paul is rare, an original that’s been in the first owner’s possession since 1959 is almost mythical. If not for the clear lineage of “Gabby”, her story would be hard to believe.  As it goes, the original owner of this exceptionally clean, beautifully flamed “’Burst” decided it was time to see what the vintage market thought of her, so he reached out to the most trusting source he could think of; the same company that had built the guitar in 1959, just before he claimed her from a local dealer.  Because Gibson isn’t in the business of appraising vintage guitars, Gabby’s appraisal was entrusted to Vic DaPra, noted collector and vintage guitar expert. Gibson referred the owner of "Gabby" to me for an appraisal in March of 2008.  As soon as I opened the photos that were sent ahead of the guitar, I knew I had to have it.  It's among the finest examples of an original 1959 'Burst that I've ever seen or owned." - Vic DaPra

“Gabby”, a shortened take on her nickname “The Gibson Appraisal ‘Burst”, is among the unlikeliest rarities in the lore of vintage guitars; exceptionally clean with a beautiful top and a finish that’s retained an amazing amount of its original red in her factory applied Heritage Cherry Sunburst.  The story of an original Gibson Les Paul that’s been all but hermetically sealed for over a half century spreads like wildfire through the vintage community.  By the time Vic DaPra decided it was time to let some other lucky soul own her for a while, Gabby’s suitors were many and standing in line around the world.  Ultimately, she was entrusted to Ronny Proler, another respected vintage collector, known for his generous entrustment of his prized collection to a network of active players. When Ronny finally had the chance to play Gabby himself, he was ecstatic. Gabby has incredible flame, overall feel and that “early primitive” tone that we all dream about.  Just a stunning example of an original ‘Burst in every aspect.” –Ronny Proler

In a limited edition of up to 300 guitars, contingent on the availability of qualifying materials, Gibson has worked hand-in-hand with both Ronny and Vic to capture the essence of one of the most storied 1959 ‘Bursts” of all time in a stunningly accurate replica as Collector’s Choice #30 1959 Les Paul 9-0291 aka “Gabby From her digitally scanned and reproduced neck profile and body, to the soul-stirring recreation of her original pickups’ balance and tone, down to a beautiful figured maple top, this is one very special guitar among the already elite strata of Collector’s Choice by Gibson Custom

Serial #CC30A065