The world wasn’t quite ready for the Gibson Explorer in 1958, as evidenced by production numbers that strained to meet 100 units. Now — 50 years later — those same instruments are some of the most prized collectible guitars in the world, and Gibson USA is proud to honor the legacy of this truly legendary guitar by introducing the new 50-Year Commemorative Explorer.
This new Guitar of the Month for October 2008 combines the time-tested elements of the original with several modern appointments worthy of today’s demanding players.
The retro-style, solid mahogany body is as angular and asymmetrical today as it was the first day it left Gibson’s Kalamazoo plant in 1958. Added, however, is a AA figured maple top with beveled edges, and a brand new Brimstone Burst finish — all exclusive features of this limited edition.
The headstock’s unique Gibson logo was recently found in a warehouse, among some old drawings belonging to Gibson President Ted McCarty. The neck is also one-piece mahogany with Gibson’s traditional ’50s rounded profile, topped by a 22-fret ebony fingerboard with pearl split-block inlays and single-ply binding.
This limited edition Explorer is powered by two Gibson ’57 Classic pickups, made to the same exact specs as the original PAFs of the late 1950s and early 1960s, and packing that unmistakable Gibson PAF humbucker crunch.
Other select features include gold fret wire and hardware, Steinberger Gearless tuners, and a custom Guitar of the Month case from Gibson USA. Like all of Gibson USA’s Guitars of the Month, production is limited to just 1,000 guitars.
Click here to get a better look at Gibson USA’s 50-Year Commemorative Explorer.