On this week’s podcast we talk to Walter Carter of Carter Vintage Guitars about one of the store’s latest acquisitions, a May 1958 Gibson Les Paul that can safely be called the first ‘Burst. This prototype guitar came from the factory with a three-piece top and a “Special” finish, which just happened to be the same yellow to cherry red sunburst pattern that would be found on all those iconic 1959-1960 Les Pauls. During our half hour talk, Carter tells us about this unique instrument, how he found it (or it found him) and, yes, the price he’s asking.
Carter is an invaluable resource when it comes to all things fretted, so we also ask him about some of the recent sales trends he’s seen in vintage instruments, what instruments he just can’t keep in stock and a lot more. If you collect vintage guitars, mandolins or banjos, you’ll want to listen to Carter’s thoughts on the market.
Walter and Christie Carter.
The Les Paul’s original owner, photographed in 1960 with the guitar.
