From the Bernie Marsden collection, this 1964 reverse body Gibson Firebird III represents a lifelong obsession with these offset beasts. From a chance encounter with The Mersey Beats at Selmers on Charing Cross Road as a 12 year old, through auditions for UFO and buying and selling many over the years, the Firebird has been a constant in the congregation.  

This guitar is featured on page 207 of Bernie's hardback book 'Tales of Tone and Volume' a copy of which will be included with this sale.

Not many have survived the decades without some kind of issue, the dreaded headstock break due to bad case design being the biggest. This one has thankfully survived and not only that, it has survived in amazing condition and without any kind of modifications or ‘upgrades’ at all. It is as some people like to call it, a true survivor.

All totally correct or original, even the original pickguard is crack free which is a pleasant surprise. Original frets and fingerboard have very little wear but it has been played a bit as evidenced by the small, minor marks on the back and a few dings around the edges.

Neck on this one is quite chunky but is very comfortable to play. Fretboard is in great shape with plenty of life left in the frets.

Electrically everything looks untouched 

The hardware and plastics look good too. Minimal tarnishing on the hardware and the pickguard, though it has shrunk a little and has a piece missing, is in great condition.

The guitar comes with its correct hardshell case resplendent with evidence of its former owners.

Nothing plays and sounds like a Firebird. With one strapped on, no one will fail to notice you either. There is undoubtedly space for one in your collection…