The Gibson Custom Shop Collector’s Choice #17A 1959 Les Paul “Louis” is one of the most fascinating instruments created as part of the celebrated Collector’s Choice programme, which was developed to recreate the individual character of some of the world’s most desirable vintage guitars. This model is based on “Louis”, an original 1959 Les Paul Standard that remained hidden in a private collection for decades before being selected by Buckcherry guitarist Keith Nelson for its exceptional tone and playing response.
Its body is crafted from a single piece of genuine mahogany and topped with carefully selected figured maple. The aged nitrocellulose Dirty Lemon Burst finish faithfully captures the subtle fading and modest playing wear of the original guitar, giving the instrument not only an authentic appearance but also the comfortable feel of a Les Paul that has naturally matured over time.
The mahogany neck recreates the original guitar’s substantial ’59 profile, offering a rounded and remarkably natural feel. A rosewood fingerboard with a 12” radius, nitrocellulose trapezoid inlays and a nylon nut complete a construction deeply rooted in the specifications of Golden Era Les Pauls.
A pair of Custom Bucker pickups, featuring an Alnico II magnet in the neck position and an Alnico III magnet at the bridge, delivers an open, dynamic and harmonically complex voice. The neck pickup is warm, deep and three-dimensional, while the bridge pickup provides clarity, attack and a beautifully vocal midrange. The guitar cleans up naturally through the volume controls and becomes rich, aggressive and highly expressive when pushed into overdrive.
An ABR-1 Tune-o-Matic bridge, lightweight aluminium stopbar and Reissue Kluson Deluxe tuners complete this uncompromising recreation. More than a conventional reissue, the CC #17A captures the identity of one specific 1959 Burst, making “Louis” an exceptionally desirable instrument for both players and collectors.