2021 Gibson Custom Shop CHUCK BERRY 1970s ES-355 Aged Guitar MINTY w All the Extras!

Here is a really nice and highly collectible Gibson Custom Shop Chuck Berry ES-355 Murphy Lab Aged, a rare signature model inspired by Chuck Berry’s iconic late-career ES-355 used throughout his legendary performances.

This Murphy Lab recreation is based on Chuck’s well-known mid-to-late ’70s ES-355, faithfully capturing the look, feel, and vibe of the original instrument while incorporating Gibson’s modern Custom Shop craftsmanship and Murphy Lab aging treatment.

The Murphy Lab finish work gives this guitar a naturally worn-in aesthetic, with subtle aging and checking that enhances its vintage character. As expected from Murphy Lab instruments, there are some light finish reactions and minor flaking in a few areas, which is consistent with the aging process and part of the intended visual character.

Condition is very good plus overall, and this example came to us from a collector who played it very sparingly. It shows only light pickguard scratches and minimal additional wear, presenting extremely well for a Murphy Lab-aged instrument.

The neck feels comfortable and familiar, measuring approximately 1-11/16" at the nut, 0.81" at the 1st fret, and 0.99" at the 12th fret, offering a smooth, slightly slim late-’50s/early-’60s style profile that plays effortlessly.

At 9 lbs. 2 oz., it has a solid, resonant semi-hollow feel with excellent sustain and balance.

Tonally, it delivers exactly what you'd expect from a high-end ES-355—rich, articulate humbucker tone with excellent clarity, warm low-end response, and that classic Gibson semi-hollow bloom when pushed. It’s equally at home clean or driven.

It comes complete with the original hardshell case, Certificate of Authenticity, all original paperwork and case candy, including the signature Chuck Berry yacht cap, a fun and highly collectible nod to his later-stage persona.

The Details
  • Condition: Very Good Plus
  • Originality: 100% Original
  • Finish: Murphy Lab Aged Ebony
  • Notes: Chuck Berry Signature Model; based on late-’70s ES-355; collector owned; includes yacht cap
Playability & Sound

This one plays exceptionally well with a comfortable slim-profile neck and delivers the classic ES-355 voice—smooth, dynamic, and harmonically rich with excellent note separation and sustain. The Murphy Lab treatment enhances both the visual character and the overall vintage-inspired feel.

Specifications
  • Brand: Gibson Custom Shop
  • Model: Chuck Berry ES-355 Murphy Lab Aged
  • Finish: Murphy Lab Aged Ebony
  • Nut Width: 1-11/16"
  • Neck Depth: 0.81" (1st Fret) / 0.99" (12th Fret)
  • Weight: 9 lbs. 2 oz.
  • Case: Original Hardshell Case
  • Accessories: COA, Case Candy, Original Paperwork, Chuck Berry Yacht Cap
Why Buy From Kansas City Vintage Guitars?

We specialize in high-quality vintage and modern guitars for collectors and serious players alike. With over 25 years in the guitar business, we focus on accurate descriptions, originality, and transparency.

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Thanks from KC Vintage Guitars!

Listeda month ago
ConditionVery Good (Used)
Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • Custom Shop Chuck Berry '70s ES-355
Categories
Year
  • 2021
Artist
  • Chuck Berry
Body Material
  • Maple
Neck Construction
  • Set-Neck
Body Shape
  • Double Cutaway
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Body Type
  • Semi-Hollow Body
Model Family
Nut Width
  • 1.687"
Number of Strings
  • 6-String
Neck Material
  • Maple
Offset Body
  • Non-Offset Body
Wood Top Style
  • Plain
Color Family
  • Red
Finish Style
  • Gloss
Series
Pickup Configuration
  • HH
Scale Length
  • 24.75"
Top Material
  • Maple
Bridge/Tailpiece Type
  • Tremolo Tailpiece
Fretboard Material
  • Ebony
Model Sub-Family
Number of Frets
  • 22

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Kansas City Vintage Guitars

Lees Summit, MO, United States
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