1982 Gibson Les Paul - Rare 'Jimmy Wallace' Edition Highly Figured Top

Bay Area Vintage Guitars is proud to offer this rare 1982 Gibson Les Paul – Jimmy Wallace Edition. Built to 1958 specs with thin binding in the cutaway, ABR-1 bridge, vintage-style serial (starting with “8”), and the early-run block-letter JIMMY WALLACE truss rod cover — features shared with Leo’s and Guitar Trader bursts of the same period. This guitar doesn't disappoint, with only a couple of small dings and a scratch, in an otherwise near-mint example of this rare guitar.

Under the hood? Original Tim Shaw pickups — verified by the ink-stamp code and tooling marks (see photo). These pickups are legendary for a reason: warm mids, articulate highs, and the closest Gibson came to a true PAF in the modern era.

A true early-’80s Kalamazoo rarity — #9 of the first 25 Jimmy Wallace Les Pauls ever made. Wallace personally hand-selected every top, and this one is a knockout: vibrant flame, perfect color fade, and exceptional condition with only the lightest play wear.

• S/N 80822009
• Weight: 9.7 lbs.
• Bridge PU reads: 6.7K
• Neck PU reads: 7.2K
• Nut width: 1.68"
• Neck depth at 1st fret: .87"
• Neck depth at 12th fret: .98"
• Comes with a non-original hardshell case

History:

The Jimmy Wallace Les Pauls were made in Kalamazoo in the early ’80s and had beautiful quilted tops, with vintage serial numbers starting with 8 (for 1958). The features of these guitars are similar to those of the Leo’s and Guitar Traders, including the thin binding in the cutaway, ABR-1 bridge, etc. The early ’80s guitars had truss rod covers with block 'Jimmy Wallace' in script and 'MODEL' in block letters.

Why Buy From Bay Area Vintage Guitars?

At Bay Area Vintage Guitars, we live for the stories these instruments tell. Our passion is fueled by a lifelong obsession with vintage guitars, the magic of classic amplifiers, and the endless pursuit of perfect tone; it’s about the fellowship we share with musicians and collectors like you who keep this history alive.

Important Note - Inventory & Availability: 

This instrument is listed on multiple platforms and may sell elsewhere before we can update this listing. To avoid disappointment, please message us to confirm availability before making an offer or purchase.

Condition & Photos: 

The accompanying photos depict the actual instrument for sale and are an integral part of the description. Please review them closely. This instrument is sold as-is.

Setup & Playability: 

We ensure every instrument is playable before it leaves our shop. However, playability is subjective, and factors such as shipping, climate changes, and personal preferences for action and string gauge will determine how the instrument feels in your hands. Please anticipate that a personalized setup by a luthier may be required upon arrival to match your specific tastes.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any specific questions before purchasing.

Shipping:

All items are packed with the utmost care and shipped fully insured.

Ships to the Continental U.S.