1958 GIBSON EXPLORER

The highly coveted original production with Gold Hardware, Keystone Tuners and Brown Geib Case

Conceived in 1957, Gibson dreamed up their “modernistic” guitars, which were part of a 3-guitar campaign that included the “Flying V” and “Moderne,” of which no living example has
ever been found. Upon its production and release in 1958, the Explorer fast became the less desirable guitar when it launched, and subsequently, according to Gibson’s original
shipping totals, only 38 examples were ever produced.
The reception by the public was less than favorable, and the company had trouble selling the first batch of 38 guitars, causing about half of them to be shelved for several years
until approximately 1963 when they decided to clean up, assemble and ship the remaining instruments.

The 2nd group of guitars received a few changes that included nickel hardware, a set of 6 inline strip tuners and most received a variety of different vibrato units to help make them more attractive to
guitarists and get them out the door. The choice of wood, African Limba, aka Korina was unique to the Explorer, Flying V, and a select few steel guitar instruments that Gibson produced.
Due to their rarity and the eventual popularity they gained a decade or more after they were introduced, the Explorer guitars today are highly coveted and sought after, and original examples,
especially with Gold hardware and a Brown Geib Case are considered by many to be the holy grail of collectible vintage Gibson electric guitars.

Finding an original issue, gold parts Explorer with its brown case intact is quite rare, to say the least. Most collectors and many vendors, except the more experienced members have ever seen
one of these guitars and matching cases in person. Its scarcity only adds to its allure, making it a true gem for any serious collector.

These leather-clad cases feature a royal-looking magenta lining that is quite striking.