Santana at Woodstock and Townshend at Leeds, reason enough to take a look at this 1963 Gibson SG Special.

Designed as a student model, a step up from the Junior, the Special had taken many guises since its introduction in 1955. By 1963 the guitar had lost all connection with its Les Paul heritage but was popular with players such as Toni Iommi and Robbie Krieger who found the solid guitar the perfect foil, lightweight and powerful. 

This guitar is stunning. The colour has retained that rich depth that we seek out with these finishes. There is no evidence of fading anywhere on the body and though there are a few patches of wear, these do not detract from the overall look of the instrument.

The heel has been slightly damaged at some stage but its been well repaired and looks to be very minor. The lacquer on the neck faded a little into a comfortable surface. There's some nice checking but no damage. The headstock has a few marks but nothing too serious. The front in particular is very clean.

The fretboard has its original frets that have some life left in them and the fretboard is free of wear. 

The plastics are in good shape, the pickguard hasn’t warped or cracked and the pickup covers are all intact. 

The wraptail is a modern one modified by the current owner to fit in the original studs. Included with the guitar is the original tailpiece (See pics).

Electronically everything looks correct. All solder joint are untouched.

The guitar comes with a later Gibson hardshell case.

Sonically this guitar is so much more than a ‘student’ guitar. The neck is full bodied and clear with the bridge delivering that raw tone that we just itch for in an SG. A great rock n roll machine. The neck is so comfortable being a classic profile and reassuringly full, just inviting you to play anywhere.

We love SGs here at ATB Guitars and to have a Special is always a treat. A must for any collection.