Super clean, original 1957 TV Junior complete with original case. Hard to imagine a cleaner example! 

There are a few myths as to the origin of the moniker ‘TV Yellow’. Some say that it originates through the association with television cabinet finishes which were often done in limed mahogany (the finish listed in the Gibson Catalogue). Another idea most often quoted is that the finish looked better when broadcast (a suggestion put forward by Les Paul himself) as white caused issues with early television cameras.

A more controversial one is that the TV stands for ‘Telecaster Version’, a name given to the finish by Gibson executives who thought the combination of a blonde finish and black pick guard would confuse new customers into buying the Les Paul Juniors over their rival Fender’s Telecaster. Whatever the answer, its certain that this is one of Gibson’s most distinctive finishes, one which went through many changes over the years.

The guitar is all original with only a few dings and scratches that take it away from 'mint' territory. The headstock bears the original decal and Les Paul TV Model silkscreen in excellent condition. The tuners are the correct single line 3-a-side Klusons, the nut and frets are original with plenty of height remaining. The dark Rosewood fingerboard is a really nice contrast to the wheatey TV Yellow finish and with the black knobs, guard, P90 cover and overall austere appointments the TV Junior has an understated coolness that's hard to beat.

Playability wise the chunky C profile neck feels very comfortable in the hand. The original frets have plenty of height remaining and the overall setup is well balanced. The guitars really sings when played unplugged which is always a good sign. Lots of volume and resonance to the lightweight Mahogany body. 

Through an amp you get the classic Junior punch and attack with some nice mellow woody tones as well as biting cut when rolling off a touch of volume. There are lots of nice harmonics going on and the absence of a neck pickup helps simplify your approach to the instrument by getting the most out of the controls on hand.

The finish is in excellent overall condition; it has clearly been well looked after over the years. There is evidence of playwear to the back of the neck, which has created a nice smooth feel. On very close inspection there is some inconsistency in the finish around the heel but there are no signs of breaks.

50s Les Pauls are always sought after, and the TV Junior has proven to be a great investment over the years. This is a great example that would be an excellent addition to any collection!