From the Bernie Marsden Collection, we have this stunning 1963 Gibson SG Special. This guitar is featured on page 283 of Bernie's hardback book 'Tales of Tone and Volume' a copy of which will be included with this sale.

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, one of the best we have seen. The colour has retained that rich hue which is so desirable. 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 neck is free of repairs . The lacquer on the neck has 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 is free of wear, its original frets have some life left in them.

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

Hardware is correct. 

Electronically everything looks correct. All solder joints are untouched.

The guitar comes with a correct Gibson gator-skin 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.