A Rare, Sovereign Piece of Gibson Solid-Body History
Up for sale is a stunning, entirely authentic 1979 Gibson L5-S Custom in its iconic, beautifully aged Tobacco Burst finish. Introduced in the 1970s as Gibson’s most expensive, top-tier solid-body instrument, the L5-S was designed to offer the absolute pinnacle of luxury and styling borrowed directly from the legendary L-5 archtop, but engineered into a feedback-resistant, solid-framed format.
This incredible instrument features a smaller, comfortable single-cutaway body shape reminiscent of a Les Paul, but boasts deep, highly sculptural body carves on both the front and the back. Bearing the serial number 70819164, factory records verify this masterpiece was stamped at the Kalamazoo factory on March 22, 1979. It is a spectacular find for serious collectors, studio musicians, and players who appreciate rare Gibson history.
Key Features & Build Details:
- Sculpted Solid Construction: Distinctive 3-ply carved solid maple body and back, featuring multi-layered binding and elegant contours.
- Ornate L-5 Appointments: Headstock features the historic Gibson mother-of-pearl "flower pot" inlay, multi-ply binding, and large gold tuners.
- Premium Ebony Fretboard: Smooth, fast-playing solid ebony fingerboard adorned with large abalone/pearloid block inlays.
- Era-Correct Pickup Upgrade: The original neck "Tarback" humbucker has been upgraded to a highly desirable vintage Gibson Tim Shaw humbucker (see image of back of pickup) in the neck position. Known for their incredible PAF-style clarity and warmth, this Shaw pickup perfectly complements the natural resonance of the carved maple body.
- Elite Hardware: Gold-plated hardware throughout, complete with a heavy-duty Schaller harmonica bridge and a solid-body variation of the iconic L-5 trapeze tailpiece.
Condition Notes:
This 1979 L5-S is a true "player’s grade" vintage instrument with a massive amount of mojo. It has clearly been loved and played extensively throughout its life, which is a testament to how incredible it sounds and feels.
- Honest Player Wear: The most notable cosmetic feature is honest finish wear on the top, located right between the pickups beneath the strings. This is classic fingernail and pick wear from decades of dedicated playing, exposing the beautiful solid maple underneath.
- Aesthetic Character: The Tobacco Burst finish shows authentic nitrocellulose lacquer checking, small dings, and surface swirling consistent with a well-traveled 40-year-old vintage guitar.
- Hardware & Structure: The original gold plating has aged beautifully with a subtle, natural patina. Structurally, the guitar is rock solid with absolutely no cracks, neck breaks, or structural repairs. The neck is straight, the setup is comfortable, and it is fully ready for its next chapter on stage or in the studio.
What’s Included:
- Hardshell case
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Gibson
- Model: L5-S Custom (Solid Body)
- Year: 1979
- Serial Number: 70819164
- Finish: Tobacco Burst (Nitrocellulose Lacquer)
- Body Type: Solid Body, Single Cutaway
- Body/Top Material: Highly Contoured, Carved Solid Maple
- Neck Material: 5-piece Laminated Maple
- Fingerboard: Solid Ebony with Abalone/Pearloid Blocks
- Scale Length: 24.75" (Standard Gibson Solid-Body Scale)
- Nut Width: 1 11/16"
- Bridge: Schaller Gold Harmonica Bridge
- Tailpiece: L5-S Art Deco Solid-Body Trapeze
** This is a used guitar and therefore may have cosmetic imperfections and blemishes such as swirls not visible in photos. If you are concerned about cosmetic issues please call our shop or come by during normal business hours and we will further describe the guitar. **
Big House Guitars is a brick and mortar store in Atlanta GA open 7 days a week. All items are available for viewing and playing in the shop during regular hours. All guitars are inspected and set up by our in house luthier. Buyers are encouraged to call the shop and ask any questions before placing an order. Please do not hesitate to contact the store directly at 404-254-0190.