Gibson Hummingbird “Historic Collection” custom guitar

Very good condition.

Serial Number: 03185040

2005 Limited run – model only made for one year.

K&K passive pickup system installed professionally.

Price: $3280 (original hardcase included)

Pick up location: Beaverton

Note from seller: This is the best guitar I’ve ever played. It has the most satisfying sound and comfortable neck. The action is low and the fretwork is especially comfortable.   The tuners are also the smoothest I’ve ever tried. I’m selling it because the dreadnaught size is too much for my shoulder. So, sadly, I have to part with this beautiful instrument.

This is a Custom Shop acoustic guitar built to emulate the specifications of the original 1960s models, featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. It offers a rich, resonant, and balanced sound that reviewers praise for its clarity. 

The "Historic Collection" designation means this guitar was built in to replicate the desirable specifications of the original 1960s Hummingbirds. This focus on vintage authenticity makes it a prized instrument for players and collectors seeking that classic sound and feel without the significant investment or potential fragility of a true vintage model. Its construction reflects a golden era of Gibson flat-tops, a period when artists like Keith Richards and Jimmy Page were defining the sound of rock and folk with their Hummingbirds.

Key Features & Craftsmanship

Iconic Body & Tonewoods: It features the classic square-shouldered dreadnought body shape, known for its deep bass and rich, full-round sound. The guitar boasts a solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, a legendary wood combination that produces a warm, balanced tone with excellent projection.

Vintage Aesthetics: The striking appearance is highlighted by the famous engraved pickguard with its intricate hummingbird and floral motif, as well as the multi-ply body binding and attractive Heritage Cherry Sunburst finish.

Playability: It is built with a comfortable, rounded mahogany neck profile and a rosewood fingerboard adorned with distinctive mother-of-pearl parallelogram inlays. The 24.75" scale length is inviting and comfortable for a wide range of playing styles.

Quality Hardware: The guitar is equipped with reliable Grover tuners and a traditional belly-up rosewood bridge, ensuring tuning stability and proper intonation.

Condition & Collectability

As a 2005 model, this guitar has had nearly two decades to age, allowing the solid woods to open up and the tone to mature, which is a significant advantage over a brand-new instrument. While some light playwear and minor finish checking lines are common and expected for a guitar of this age, they add character and are normal signs of a well-loved instrument. There is a slight crack at the top of the soundboard on to the top edge of the guitar, which doesn’t seem to affect the sound. This particular instrument sounds incredible. It includes the original hardshell case, which is essential for protecting this valuable piece of musical history. Some small dings and scratches and other signs of normal wear for an instrument if this age. I keep my instruments clean and in a smoke free environment.

Sold as is with no returns. So please read carefully and make sure this is what you are looking for. It is a beautiful instrument. It has that special sound that Gibson hummingbirds are known and loved for. I tried several hummingbirds before buying this one and it was by far my favorite.