CELEBRITY OWNED!

The Gibson Custom Shop’s ‘59 Les Paul Standard “Burst” reissues are among the most highly coveted instruments around. As such, many notable players have chosen R9s as their instruments of choice. In this case, this is Bruce Kulick’s personal ‘59 LP Standard Reissue from 2000. Although Gibson CS was producing a good handful of R9s back then, they didn’t make nearly as many as they do in modern times. Of course, Bruce was the longtime guitarist for KISS during the height of their non-makeup era from 1984 until 1996, when KISS’s Reunion Tour came together. His style defined the iconic albums of the time, most notably Asylum and Revenge. Bruce purchased this R9 from Norman’s Rare Guitars back in 2005 and owned it up until August 2026, when it was acquired by Guitarsenal. As evidenced by its long tenure in his guitarsenal, Bruce clearly thought quite highly of this instrument and it received plenty of play during its 2 decades with him.

The opportunity to own an instrument of this caliper from Bruce Kulick is very rare - Bruce occasionally sells some of his gear, but this is the only Gibson Custom Shop instrument that has recently left his collection. Gibson Custom Shop is the pinnacle of craftsmanship and quality - Only A Gibson Is Good Enough! For KISS Collectors seeking a high quality piece of KISStory, this is the golden opportunity. Bruce has been known to rock LP Juniors, and the R9 is THE definitive Les Paul model.

Apart from its provenance, this is an exceptional example of an R9 - it has everything players and collectors look for in a good R9. The color is a beautiful “Iced Tea” hue of a sunburst finish, and the figured maple top underneath has a very strong, vivid, and consistent “pinstripe”-like flame. It weighs in at a very manageable 8 lbs 4 oz, making it a comfortable weight and a well-balanced instrument. The fretboard is a nice dark piece of rosewood. Additionally, the mahogany back has a beautiful, even grain pattern and complimentary faded cherry finish.

Here’s an R9 with history.

Condition is "Good". There are scratches, dings, impressions, and signs of use throughout. Bruce believed it was all original but Guitarsenal’s inspection revealed that the nut appears to have been replaced and felt pads appear to have been added to the strap buttons. The case has some scuffs. Includes case, pictured accessories, and certificate of provenance from Bruce. 

Feel free to ask any questions!

Measurements

Weight: 8 lbs 4 oz

Nut Width: 1.70 in

12th Fret Width: 2.06 in

1st Fret Thickness: .89 in

12th Fret Thickness: 1.02 in