Gibson Les Paul Gold Top Custom Deluxe

by Steven R. Townshend
(Chestertown Maryland USA)

Purchased from a guitar teacher when 12. That was 75. It is in exact same shape as when purchased. I have treated it like gold. It was obviously vintage when purchased. Not sure exactly what year. No modifications ever made All original. Pick guard is missing. Good condition with only light scratches in the normal spots. None even close to coming through finish. Gold front, natural wood finish. No case, but i purchased a hard case. I played at 12, eventually college, and work. Once i started working i put down the guitar. Its been in a case in the closet for 20+ years. I don't have any picture's, but if they are needed to asses value I'll borrow a digital camera and send some. Thanks for your help in giving my baby a value. Would u note this on home owner insurance separate in case of theft, damage, fire, ect.. If so would u give the same value or do u give an insurance company another value. Thanks much for your help
Steven T.

ANSWER

Hi, Steven--

Here is the Blue Book general info:

LES PAUL DELUXE (1969-1985 MFG.)
- single sharp cutaway 3-piece mahogany/maple body, 13 in. wide, 17.25 in. long and 2 in. deep, 24.75 in. scale, deeper cutaway binding, bound carved maple top, raised cream pickguard, mahogany neck, 22-fret bound rosewood fingerboard with pearl trapezoid inlay, "Deluxe" engraved on truss rod cover, tune-o-matic bridge/stop tailpiece, widened blackface peghead with pearl logo inlay, 3-per-side Kluson tuners with plastic double ring buttons, nickel hardware, 2 mini humbucker pickups (regular humbuckers were optional from 1970-74), 2 volume/2 tone controls, 3-position switch, available in Blue Sparkle Top (approx. 230 mfg. 1975-77), Cherry (mfg. 1971-75), Cherry Sunburst, Gold Top, Red Sparkle Top (rare, approx. 125 mfg. 1975 only), Tobacco Sunburst, Walnut (approx. 112 mfg. 1971-72), Natural or Wine Red finishes, mfg. 1969-1985.

Since you did not supply a serial number, it is not possible to provide the exact Blue Book value, but the range will be from $950 to $3000 depending on year and condition.

Just include it on your regular HO insurance for $3000.00.

Best Wishes,
Lynne