LEFTY! Gibson Les Paul Custom 1969 - Black

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1969 Gibson Les Paul Custom – Rare Left-Handed "Transitional" Model

For our southpaw players and collectors, this is a "holy grail" find. Finding a 1969 Gibson Les Paul Custom is difficult enough; finding a left-handed example with these specific transitional specs is nearly impossible. This isn't just a vintage guitar; it’s a custom-ordered piece of Gibson history acquired directly from the original owner in Texas.

According to the original owner, he ordered this guitar specifically from Gibson to replace a right-handed SG he had been playing "flipped" for years. This guitar has been cherished for over half a century and is now ready for its next chapter.

The Build & Transitional Specs

1969 was a year of major evolution at Gibson, and this specimen features the most desirable "early" characteristics that collectors hunt for:

• One-Piece Mahogany Body: No "pancake" laminate here. This is the solid, non-pancake construction purists crave.
• Three-Piece Mahogany Neck: Featuring the "short tenon" and the highly sought-after no-volute profile.
• Electronics: All original electronics, including Patent Number pickups and pots dating to 1969.
• Hardware: The original owner states he only ever removed the pickup covers once to try the "exposed" look before promptly putting them back on. They remain in excellent condition.

Condition & Playability

While this instrument shows some light wear consistent with being played and loved, it is in extremely good shape for its age. It has been well-maintained and remains a structurally sound, stunning example of a late-60s Custom.

This guitar is a professional-grade player. It has been refretted, which has significantly improved its playability. During the refret, it also received a new bone nut.

• Frets: The frets are level, polished, and have plenty of life. There are some minor, small chips on the edge of the fretboard from the refret process, but they are purely cosmetic and do not affect the feel of the neck.
• Weight: It sits at a very comfortable 9.33 lbs, exceptionally well-balanced for a vintage Custom.
• Neck Profile: It feels fast and substantial without being bulky.
• • Nut Width: 1.7"
  • Depth at Nut: 0.83"
  • 12th Fret Width: 2.05"
  • 12th Fret Depth: 1.05"

A Unique Factory Quirk

One fascinating detail of this guitar is the grounding system. There is no traditional internal ground wire channel. Instead, a screw is mounted to touch the bridge post with factory-original solder. While unusual for right-handed models, the solder work appears untouched and factory-original. We believe this was a specific accommodation for the left-handed production line in 1969—a true "birthmark" of a rare custom order.

Summary

This is a rare opportunity to own a one-owner, transitional '69 Custom in a left-handed configuration. It sounds massive—exactly what you expect from a late-60s Gibson—with that signature "fretless wonder" aesthetic but the upgraded playability of modern frets.

Includes: Original Gibson Hard Shell Case.

At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind every instrument we sell, and we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. That’s why we offer a 7-day return policy with no restocking fee. Take a full week to inspect, play, and fall in love with your new guitar. If for any reason it isn’t the right fit, simply return it in the same condition for a full refund—no hidden fees, no hassle. We know that buying a vintage instrument is a big decision, and we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and transparent as possible. Shop with peace of mind knowing that every guitar from Joe’s Vintage Guitars is backed by honest service and years of expertise.