Vintage 1970? Gibson ES-150D electric guitar Chocolate Brown (Walnut) with OHSC
Step back into the golden era of Gibson craftsmanship with this rare and exceptionally clean 1969 Gibson ES-150D
. Bearing the serial number 890909, this instrument dates to the 1968-69, but since it says Made in USA below the serial number and has the rectangular Norlin style soundhole label I am calling it a 1970 (heck, it could be a 71 or 72 as well so please use your own judgement).—a period where this unique model flourished as a deep-bodied alternative to the ES-335. Finished in its stunning and original Chocolate Brown (Walnut), this hollow-body archtop is a masterclass in vintage tone and aesthetic.
I just went to the Gibson site and here is what they gave to me :
A Gibson electric guitar with the 6-digit serial number 890909 and the "MADE IN USA" stamp underneath was manufactured between 1970 and 1972.
Gibson did not use the "MADE IN USA" stamp until 1970. Its presence immediately rules out the 1960s, despite 1960s Gibsons sharing similar 6-digit serial numbers.The 6-Digit Format: Gibson used this exact 6-digit die-stamped combination combined with the "MADE IN USA" text from 1970 to 1975.
The Serial Batch: Within that 1970–1975 system, factory logs show that the 890000–899999 block of numbers was stamped on guitars rolling off the line specifically between 1970 and 1972.
Condition & Playability
This guitar is in Excellent Condition, showing only the lightest signs of handling that you’d expect from a well-loved 50-year-old treasure. It has been meticulously preserved, retaining its structural integrity and vibrant finish. At a comfortable 6 lbs, 9.82 oz, it is remarkably lightweight for a 3-inch deep hollow body, offering effortless playability for long sessions without sacrificing resonance.
Technical Specifications & Features
- Body: Fully hollow laminated maple body with a 3" depth, providing a woody, airy resonance distinct from its thinner semi-hollow cousins.
- Pickups: Twin original Gibson Humbuckers that deliver the warm, organic, and articulate "PAF-style" tones legendary to this era.
- Electronics: Standard dual volume and tone controls, plus the unique Master Volume knob located on the lower treble bout for on-the-fly output adjustments.
- Neck: Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard adorned with classic pearloid block inlays.
- Hardware: Original chrome-plated trapeze tailpiece and ABR-1 bridge for stable intonation and vintage flair.
Investment-Grade Package
This ES-150D comes complete with its original Gibson hardshell case, ensuring it remains protected for the next generation of players and collectors. Whether you are a jazz aficionado seeking that perfect "box" tone or a collector hunting for a rare finish in superior condition, this Chocolate Brown beauty is a standout choice.
I dated the guitar with the help of Claude code AI and it says this about the date:
Based on the details provided—a Gibson ES-150D, a 6-digit serial number starting with 89xxxx, a "Made in U.S.A." stamp below it, and a rectangular orange label—your guitar was likely manufactured between 1970 and 1972.
- Serial Number Range (890909): Six-digit numbers starting with 89xxxx are associated with 1970, 1971, and 1972.
- "Made in U.S.A." Stamp: Gibson introduced this stamp below the serial number in 1970 and used it on these models until 1975.
- Rectangular Label: The "Norlin-era" rectangular label is typical for these 1970s instruments.
- Model Info: The "modern" ES-150D (double cutaway, deep body) was produced from late 1969 through 1975.
While 6-digit numbers without the "Made in USA" stamp were used in the late 1960s, the inclusion of that stamp and the "D" (Double Cutaway) designation places this instrument firmly in the early 1970s. []
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| Listed | 2 months ago |
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| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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