The Gibson SG was introduced in 1961 as a complete replacement for the Les Paul. The new design was thought to be a more modern solidbody guitar, with sleek beveled edges and two sharp cutaways. By late 1963, the Les Paul moniker was dropped, and the SG (or Solid Guitar) became an entirely separate model. The SG has remained in steady production ever since earning a place as one of the truly classic solidbody guitars.  

Years of Production: 1961 -  present (with some changes in name)

Unique to this Year: By end of '63, Les Paul name is dropped from model. Maestro vibrato replaces side-pull vibrato. 

Body Style: Dual cutaway solidbody  

Wood Composition: Mahogany body, Mahogany neck, Rosewood fingerboard

Design Elements: Dual humbucker pickups, two volume and two control knobs, maestro vibrato tailpiece with logo on cover, small pickguard, 24.75-inch scale length, set neck, tune-o-matic bridge

Finish Specifications:  Cherry was the only finish for the SG in 1963. Many original Cherry finishes have faded to brown, but those in pristine Cherry condition are worth more. 

Notable Players:  Tony Iommi, Angus Young, Derek Trucks, Jeff Tweedy, Robby Krieger