Up for sale is a truly exceptional 1968 Gibson Dove in its original cherry sunburst finish, complete with its original hardshell case and factory manual!

This is a 100% original vintage Gibson Dove and one of the cleanest examples you are likely to find. It is a true collector’s-grade guitar with the kind of condition that almost looks too clean for a 1968 instrument. The finish, hardware, pickguard, bridge, tuners, frets, and case all present beautifully.

The guitar would be nearly perfect if not for one small finish smudge and a couple of dents on the top.

The guitar is so clean that this moron (LiShan at Guitar Museum) bought the guitar and then returned it for a refund because he thought it was too clean to be true.

There are three lines in the top below the bridge, closely inspected inside and out. The center line is finish checking only — lacquer crazing, normal for 1960s nitrocellulose. The two outer lines are hairline cracks that pass through the top: they can be felt on the interior surface. Both are tight and closed, with no separation, or displacement, and they do not extend to the bridge. The top shows no sinking, bellying, or distortion anywhere. Both cracks are stable but have not been repaired — a luthier would cleat these routinely, and I've priced the guitar accordingly. All three lines are photographed in close-up so you can assess them yourself.

Aside from this, the guitar is remarkably clean and well-preserved, with essentially no fret wear, a vibrant original finish, and its original case and manual.

Aside from that, this Dove is shockingly clean and beautifully preserved.

The original frets show essentially no visible wear, and the guitar plays wonderfully with great action and superb playability. The neck feels excellent, the guitar is comfortable in the hands, and the tone is exactly what you hope for from a great late-’60s Gibson Dove: warm, open, articulate, and full of vintage character.

The original Dove pickguard is stunning, with the classic engraved bird-and-flower design, and the guitar has tremendous visual appeal in person. The cherry sunburst finish is vibrant, glossy, and beautifully aged.

A true gem for the serious Gibson collector or player looking for a remarkably clean, original 1968 Dove.

Details:

• 1968 Gibson Dove
• Original cherry sunburst finish
• 100% original
• Original hardshell case included
• Collector-grade condition
• Original frets with no noticeable wear
• Excellent tone and playability
• Great action
• Beautiful original Dove pickguard

Condition notes:
One small smudge in the top finish and three tiny shallow hairline cracks/checking lines below the bridge that appear very minor. Please review all photos carefully.

Shipping:

USA: $177 — ships fully insured, signature required, professionally packed with the neck supported inside the case.
Canada: $297 | Worldwide UPS Expedited: $397
International buyers are responsible for customs duties, taxes, or import fees.