Value of a 1975 Les Paul Custom

[Wasabi]

Hello,

 

I'm new here and trying to find a value (to sell) my 1975 Les Paul Custom.

 

The serial number is 99216508. Per Gibson it is a 1975 model, made in Nashville (#8?). I got it used when I was in 8th grade (I'm 42 now). It hasn't been played in over 20 years. There are some cosmetic issues with it like some belt buckle scrapes on the back and some nickage on the back of the neck. Also, the pickups and other gold metal parts (brass?) are looking a little aged. I don't have strings on it currently but functionally it has always played great. It is black with the white trim and pearl. Frets and neck are good. Overall outside of some metal discoloration the front of the guitar is in very good condition cosmetically considering the guitar's age. I never got it refinished because I didn't want to hurt the value so everything is original. It comes with the original Gibson hard case which while a little dirty is in very good shape (no scrapes, tears, etc.).

 

Thanks for any input.

[Dynadude]

It would be a huge help if you could post pictures detailing the condition.

 

I would also install a good set of strings and check all the electronics. An "as is" sale without strings will probably bring less money, as it's harder for the buyer to determine the playability and neck/fret condition.

 

An easy button for this would be to take it to a local shop and let them install strings. Then you could check out the electronics through one of their amps.

[Wasabi]

Thanks for your input,

 

I will put some strings on it. Do you have an approximate range of it's value?

 

Thanks again.

[Thundergod]

From 10 bucks to 2000 bucks. Deppending on the condition of the guitar.

[RichCI]

I would look for similar instruments on Ebay and Craig's list. Those web sites are as good of an indicator of current fair market value as anything.

[AXE®]

I've seen them from $1500.00 to $4000.00...

[Wasabi]

Thanks for the replies everyone,

 

I was just wiping her down and looking hard at the condition. For it's age, this thing has to be a solid 8 out of 10. Again, the gold looks a little weathered and there is some belt buckle scratches on the back. Outside of that and two small dings on the back of the neck, I can't see anything wrong with it. The finish on the front looks excellent. Does it look new? No, but for a 30+ year old guitar it looks dang good. I'm thinking about not selling it now and giving it to my daughter when she gets a little older. I'm definitely not letting it go for under $2K.

 

Thanks again.

[AXE®]

We have a general rule here.

Without pictures it doesn't really exist...

 

[Out_Of_Control]

$2000 is probably a reasonable asking price. The economy is a bit hard on guitar prices now but if you're not in a hurry, I'm sure someone will eventually meet your price.

[Wasabi]

Well, I just had my first person look at it. He seemed very knowledgeable and said that it is easily an 8 out of 10 considering it's age. He offered me $1600 and I didn't take it. There are 5-6 other people who want to see it in the next few days. I'm holding out for at least $2K. If I get more great, but I'm keeping it if I don't get at least $2K for it. I'm in Lutz, FL (Tampa area) if anyone here is interested. I wish I could play well enough to enjoy it. If I can't keep it, I'd at least like to see it the hands of another Gibson fan.

 

Thanks again for all of your experienced advice and help.

[Kemry]

A few thoughts: Must get strings on it and an amp available...anyone serioius will want to listen (especially with older guitar which can have issues). Sounds like good condition, but need good photos really showing details where there is wear and pitting. To get $2,000 it doesn't need to be mint, but has to be very good condition. Without strings, amp, and excellent photos, you'll get low-balled. Sounds like $1500 to $2000 is range ($4,000 is mint, never used).

Forget giving to your daughter for first guitar. This guitar is very heavy. Not sure how old she is but there is a Hello Kitty guitar girls love!

Good luck

[LPDEN]

One of my local dealers has 2 '76 customs and a '75 custom. All are priced at $2500 to 2700. Keep in minf this is a dealer's retial price and I am betting that probably have a trade credit around $1800 to $2000.

[Bernie Morris]

I have seen them on EBay for as high as 4 to 5 K. I have one.  All original,1975 deluxe Sunburst finish with original custom hardshell case. I would never let it go for as low as 2K!