Gibson Les Paul Custom (1973)

A genuine 1973 Gibson Les Paul Custom finished in deep gloss Ebony, built in Kalamazoo, Michigan during the early Norlin era when the Custom still wore its full pre-1975 spec sheet. This is the model that earned its "Black Beauty" nickname for good reason: multi-ply ivoroid binding around the body, neck, and headstock, mother-of-pearl block inlays on a bound ebony fingerboard, the classic split-diamond headstock inlay, and a complete suite of gold hardware that has aged into a beautifully even patina.

The factory T-Top humbuckers serve up that thick, articulate Les Paul voice that sits perfectly on the edge of breakup, with crystalline cleans on the neck pickup and a focused, vocal midrange on the bridge.

The solid, substantial feel and classic neck profile make it an ideal instrument to channel your inner Kirk Hammett! 

Construction and specs

• Year: 1973
• Model: Les Paul Custom
• Country of origin: USA (Kalamazoo, Michigan)
• Finish: Ebony, original nitrocellulose lacquer
• Body construction: Three-piece "pancake" body (mahogany–maple–mahogany sandwich), maple cap
• Neck: Three-piece mahogany, set neck, classic '70s medium-C profile with the substantial shoulders the era is known for
• Fingerboard: Bound ebony with mother-of-pearl block inlays, 22 frets
• Scale length: 24.75"
• Nut width: 1 11/16"
• Pickups: Two original Gibson T-Top humbuckers
• Hardware: Gold ABR-1 style Tune-o-Matic bridge, stop bar tailpiece, Kluson-style tuners, original truss rod cover, witch hat knobs
• Electronics: Original wiring harness with CTS push-pull pots installed in 2009 (see condition notes)
• Case: Original Gibson hardshell chainsaw style case

Condition

This guitar has been loved and played, and it shows the honest, character-rich wear you expect from a vintage instrument that has been kept in service for over fifty years rather than locked away. It remains structurally sound, plays beautifully, and has been set up and inspected by our preferred luthier.

Originality: The instrument is largely all original. The sole modification is a set of CTS push-pull pots installed in 2009, a high-quality, period-appropriate upgrade that adds coil-split versatility without altering the guitar's core voice. All other components, including pickups, hardware, tuners, plastics, frets, and finish, are original to the instrument.

Cosmetic condition: Our photos show the condition as best as possible with typical play wear and markings for a guitar of this age. This guitar is exactly what the Murphy Lab are trying to replicate today!

Playability: Frets are in good condition. Neck is straight, truss rod operates correctly. No structural issues, no headstock breaks or repairs.