Stunning and rare 1955 Gibson ES-5 in original Sunburst finish with original Lifton case. This is a beautifully preserved example of Gibson’s top-tier archtop era and one of the most desirable pre-Switchmaster ES-5 models with three P-90 pickups.

Only 52 ES-5s were produced in 1955, making this an exceptionally scarce vintage Gibson.

I’ve owned this guitar since 2006 after purchasing it from Gary’s Classic Guitars in Cincinnati. It has lived in a climate-controlled, smoke-free home ever since.

Professionally Restored to Vintage Correct Spec:

• Correct mid-1950s Gibson P-90 pickups installed
• Correct vintage Kluson Deluxe tuners installed
• Work professionally completed by Guitar Works in Evanston, IL

Features:

• Original Sunburst finish
• Triple P-90 pickup configuration
• Bound rosewood fingerboard with block inlays
• Gold Tune-o-matic bridge / tailpiece
• Original tortoise pickguard included
• Original 1955 Lifton hardshell case
• Great acoustic resonance and rich amplified tone

Known Non-Original / Replaced Items:

• Neck and middle volume pots replaced
• Strap button added at heel
• Please review photos for full condition details

Condition:

Very strong vintage player/collector condition with honest age wear including finish checking, light buckle wear, and neck play wear consistent with a well-loved 70-year-old Gibson.

Bonus Provenance:

Inside the body are markings linking the guitar to a South Philadelphia guitarist/luthier named Dominick Barbalace. Family correspondence supporting this history will be included with sale.

Happy to answer questions or provide a video link. This is also listed locally, so please contact me to verify availability before purchasing.