1976 Gibson Explorer

When Gibson first unveiled the Explorer in 1958, it was a radical departure not only from the company’s jazzbox-heavy lineup, but also from their flagship Les Paul model. Inspired by the burgeoning Space Race and designed by the legendary Ted McCarty, it eschewed the traditional contours of the land yacht era in favor of an alien aesthetic defined by sharp lines and futuristic angles. Commercially, these korina (African Limba wood) guitars failed miserably and only about 20 were shipped in 1958 and '59. By 1963, Gibson pulled it from the catalog. That all changed in 1976 when competitors were building similar futuristic, sharp-edged rock guitars and Gibson brought out a newer version of the Explorer in Mahogany with a tune-o-matic bridge and gold hardware.

Released as a Bicentennial-era "Limited Edition" model (with roughly 1,835 units shipped in the initial 1976 production), some early examples featured a "Limited Edition" stamp on the back of the headstock but Gibson did not put or the decal on all the Limited Edition guitars. 

This particular 1976 example beautifully captures that historic spirit of innovation. It presents in excellent condition and remains quite clean, showing only modest play-wear from its fifty-year journey. There is some pitting (oxidation) on the hardware. Some of the early guitar had chunky baseball neck shapes, but this one is narrower at .71 at the first fret,

For the player or collector looking to make a statement on stage or in the studio, this Explorer delivers timeless vintage mojo and an unmistakable presence.

Serial Number: 600117