1990 Gibson Custom Shop Firebird V in a spectacular metallic/sparkle yellow finish that is quite awesomelysubtle and changes in different lights.

Everything you want in a Firebird - sounds incredible, has some real bite to the mini humbuckers that are super high output and mean in the best possible way, as well as the incredible looks that have literally created audible gasps when the pink case blanket is pulled back.

Also exactly what you expect from a Firebird - unergonomic and weird banjo tuners/headstock angle that give it an air of wonkiness.

Is likely a one-off custom finish that Gibson seems to have done in 1990 perhaps around the launch of the DSFR Firebird reissue. It seems as if a few uniquely finished 1990 Firebirds have emerged over the last few years, one in Inverness Green and another in metallic purple - both subject of great YouTube videos that I’ve learned a lot from.

Trogly’s Youtube vid on his purple burst (though he has a few on different 1990 and 1991 finishes), which I’ve learned a lot from suggests these may have been done for NAMM in 1990, which I think is as good as theory as any, I’ve been in touch with Gibson, and they had no record of the specs or build, and weren’t able to tell me anything.

Trogly’s video is also an excellent outline of the greatness and challenges of these guitars - particularly the celluloid pickguard and control cavity has broken down slightly and discoloured some of the finish and metal fittings. Since owning this, its been well ventilated so not decayed further. However, if I was keeping this guitar I‘d commission new plastic versions to wnaure it doesn’t happen further.

Previous owner replaced the pickup switch because of this - original included.

Original case, including some paperwork. Seems to have been sold by Nico Nico guitars in Japan at some point, before ending up in Australia.

Note also changed strap button on lower body. Otherwise superb condition!

Only think to note with the sound is that there is a slight discrepancy between the pick up volumes - unfortunately the guitar build doesn’t allow for enough lifting/lowering of the pickups to get an exact balance. A minor issue - perhaps could be addressed with a resistor or capacitor?

Please be in touch on shopping internationally, particularly to the US where tarrifs are being collected on dispatch and adding some wait time to customs clearance.