1960 Gibson ES-355 – Cherry “Bernie”

Well Strung Guitars

Description

If you’re looking for that incredibly unique piece with great character and fantastic tone, this 1960 Gibson ES-355 in Cherry custom-made for Bernie Smith is the one for you! Bernie Smith was a popular studio musician hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, and had a long career, notably performing on WHAS Hayloft Hoedown, and was a former member of Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch in Hollywood, CA. In fact, you can even see him play this very guitar on several clips on Melody Ranch HERE. This truly is a one-of-a-kind piece, featuring “Bernie” in pearl on the bound ebony fretboard, mono wiring with selector switch on the horn and jack on the side, custom plaque and monoplaque, factory stop-tail, and an overall 23-1/2” scale, like a Byrdland. The factory PAFs sound incredible in any setting, and the worn-in corners and compact scale make this guitar a standout. Bernie used it extensively, replacing the nut, tailpiece, bridge, knobs, and some screws to keep it functioning at its best. A custom-engraved plate was installed just below the stop tail, and some stickers used on that plate were applied to the headstock for a cool accent. The guitar is in overall good shape, with playwear, checking, and patina present throughout. 


Overall Condition: 8



Specifications

  • finish_details Cherry, Original, Good Condition with playwear, weather checking and patina throughout

  • body_material Maple

  • neck_material Mahogany

  • fretboard_material Ebony

  • neck_profile Medium C

  • weight 8 lbs 3 oz

  • scale_length 23-1/2"

  • pickup_readings N: 7.68K B: 8.62K

  • tubes

  • speakers

  • electronics Original, Untouched

  • nut_width 1-9/16"

  • hardware Later Bridge, tailpiece, knobs, and skirts, otherwise Original, Good Condition with some wear to the gold plating

  • includes Original Brown Hardshell Case with pink lining, strap, original knob skirts, and CDs with video

  • year