We are selling this Epiphone Les Paul Standard made in Korea in 1997 featuring the Epiphone version of the Bigsby tremelo. The serial number is u97080946. We will ship thi guitar in an Epiphone hard shell case. The guitar alone weighs 8 lb 15.7 oz, with the strap including strap locks 9 lb 5.9 oz, and the total weight inside the case is 18 lb 6.4 oz.

This is part an estate more than 70 guitars I just received from a great player and friend, who I fondly remember most for his positive sunny attitude even though he had health problems.  He was told more than 30 years ago that he had less than a year to live without heart surgery.  They have improved a lot from then.  He looked into the recovery and extended life and opted out.  His health got worse the past few years and he didn’t get around so he purchased guitars.  The following was the description he wrote:

The Epiphone Les Paul Flame Top (often seen on Standard Plus Top or 1959 models) 

offers a stunning, high-end look with its AAA flame maple veneer, delivering classic, versatile, and warm Les Paul tones. These guitars frequently feature mahogany bodies, ProBucker or Gibson CustomBucker pickups, and comfortable, modern, or vintage-style necks, providing excellent value for players seeking a high-performance, attractive instrument at a reasonable price. 

Key Takeaways

• Looks & Build: The flame top (veneer) offers a beautiful, premium, and vintage appearance. The body is usually mahogany with a maple cap, providing a resonant, thick sound.
• Tone: Equipped with Epiphone ProBuckers or, on higher-end models, Gibson CustomBuckers, the guitars deliver authentic, PAF-style, "open, organic" tones. They are versatile enough for everything from jazz to hard rock.
• Playability: Many models, such as the 60s or 59 models, offer comfortable, smooth-playing necks. Some users recommend a quick fret polish for better feel out of the box.
• Hardware: Features, such as Grover tuners, ensure stable tuning. Some models may have a slightly heavier weight, typical of traditional Les Pauls.
• Value: Generally considered a fantastic value, often giving players a lot of features—sometimes including a hard shell case—for significantly less than a Gibson equivalent. 

Common Observations

• Quality Control: While many find them exceptional, some users have reported inconsistencies in quality control (e.g., sharp fret ends, minor cosmetic imperfections), though this is often subjective.
• Electronics: While stock pickups are generally praised, some users may find the electronics or pots less responsive compared to high-end alternatives, though they are usually more than adequate. 

Verdict

The Epiphone Les Paul Flame Top is widely regarded as a great choice for players at all levels looking for that classic look and sound. It is frequently described as a "best-playing" guitar for its price point