1959 Gibson Melody Maker 3/4 – All-Original Closet Classic (First Year Model!)

Up for sale is a stunning, exceptionally well-preserved 1959 Gibson Melody Maker 3/4 in beautiful, vibrant Sunburst. 1959 represents the absolute pinnacle of Gibson's golden era, and this first-year Melody Maker is a phenomenal testament to that craftsmanship.

It appears to have spent the vast majority of its 60+ year existence safely tucked away in a closet or under a bed. If you are looking for a collector-grade vintage Gibson that plays like a dream and drips with authentic vibe, this is the one.

The Mojo & Tone

• Electronics: 100% original. The highly sought-after, first-year original wide-body single-coil pickup is punchy, responsive, and full of that famous rude, edgy vintage tone. The original pots are quiet, smooth, and function perfectly.
• Tonewoods: Features a gorgeous, lightweight solid Mahogany body and neck paired with a dark, beautifully grained, authentic Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard.

Playability & Condition

• Neck & Frets: The action is set beautifully and the guitar plays effortlessly up and down the neck. The original frets show barely any wear and have decades of life left in them.
• Hardware: The original wraparound tailpiece yields incredible resonance and surprising intonation. The original tuners adjust smoothly and hold pitch perfectly, with the original buttons remaining intact and in great shape. The original nut is likewise excellent.
• Aesthetics: The pickguard is pristine with zero cracks. The original lacquer finish features a stunning, authentic weather-crazing/checking that gives it an unmistakable vintage look. There are minor scratches and light player wear consistent with careful handling over the decades, but no major gouges or breaks. Strap buttons are tight and secure.

Specifications

• Year: 1959 (First year of production)
• Scale Length: 22.75" (Comfortable, fast short-scale)*
• Weight: An incredibly lightweight 5.9 lbs
• Case: Includes the original faux-gator skin hardshell case. The case shows some light age-appropriate wear, but all hinges and buckles work flawlessly.

*Note: Reverb's automated spec field below lists this as 24.75", but as a true 3/4 model, this guitar features a 22.75" scale

Shipping & Shop Trust

We take the stewardship of vintage instruments very seriously. This golden-era Gibson will be meticulously boxed, padded, and secured to ensure it arrives at your doorstep exactly as pictured.

Please look closely at the photos and feel free to message us with any questions. Thanks for stopping by!