Before Gibson formally launched its Historic Reissue series in 1993, the late 1980s "Pre-Historic" Les Pauls were some of the finest vintage-inspired models produced by the company. These guitars were Gibson’s first real attempt at recreating the legendary 1959 Les Paul Standard, featuring premium flame maple tops, classic appointments, and hand-selected tonewoods. Built at a time when Gibson was refining its craftsmanship under Tim Shaw’s influence, this 1989 Pre-Historic '59 Reissue in Tobacco Burst is a stunning example of the transition from the Norlin era into the Custom Shop golden years.
Tonally, this Les Paul Pre-Historic Reissue delivers the rich sustain, thick mids, and articulate highs that define the '59 Standard sound. The Bill Lawrence-designed humbuckers provide excellent clarity, balanced output, and dynamic responsiveness, making them perfect for everything from smooth blues and classic rock to heavier overdrive tones. With its flame maple top, solid mahogany body, and long-tenon neck, this Les Paul has a big, open resonance with the perfect blend of warmth and bite. The combination of vintage-voiced pickups and solid woods results in an authentic, powerful tone with stunning articulation and sustain.
This 1989 Gibson Les Paul Pre-Historic '59 Reissue is in excellent condition, showing only light signs of player wear. The flame maple top looks incredible under the Tobacco Burst finish, and the original case is included. A highly collectible and beautifully built Les Paul, this Pre-Historic model is an amazing player’s guitar with historical significance and exceptional tone.
Features:
Action at 1st fret: 0.5mm
Action at 12th fret: 1.5mm
Neck depth at 1st fret: 20.75mm
Neck depth at 12th fret: 24.45mm
Nut Width: 42.22mm
12 fret width: 51.71mm
Weight: 4.32kg / 9.53lb
Body: Solid mahogany with flame maple top
Neck: Mahogany, long tenon, 1959 profile
Fretboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
Finish: Tobacco Burst
Pickups: Bill Lawrence-designed humbuckers
Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-way toggle switch
Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with stop tailpiece
Tuners: Vintage-style Gibson Deluxe
Case: Original Gibson hard case
