Very good condition 1979 Gibson Les Paul Standard in Natural. Inc Hard case
The 1979 Gibson Les Paul Standard in natural finish is a fascinating model, sitting at an interesting point in Gibson’s history.
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The Condition
This guitar is a fine example of a nearly 50-year-old instrument that has been well played and gigged throughout its life, yet carefully maintained. There are clear signs of use and a rich history on stage, with a beautiful age-specific patina that adds to the guitar’s charm and character. Set up for an easy comfortable action and accurate intonation, and restrung with a fresh set of Elixir 10-46 strings - so this baby plays smooth, sounds incredible, and feels magic in your hands.
Background
By the late 1970s, Gibson was under the Norlin ownership (1969–1986), a period known for both experimentation and some controversial design choices. The Les Paul Standard was officially discontinued in 1960 but reappeared sporadically before returning more consistently in the mid-1970s, largely influenced by renewed interest sparked by guitar heroes of the era. The natural finish, showing off the wood grain, was a popular option during this decade.
Construction & Features
- Body: Typically made from a three-piece maple top over a three-piece mahogany body (sometimes pancake construction with a thin maple layer sandwiched in). Unlike earlier ’50s Standards, many late-’70s models were heavier, often exceeding 10 lbs, though this varied.
- Neck: Maple.
- Fingerboard: Rosewood with trapezoid inlays, 22 frets.
- Finish: The natural finish allowed the maple’s flame or plain grain to show through.
- Hardware: Chrome hardware was standard.
- Pickups: T-Top humbuckers (predecessors to the modern ’57 Classic), known for a slightly brighter, clearer sound than earlier PAFs.
- Bridge: Nashville Tune-o-Matic with stopbar tailpiece.
Playability & Tone
Players often describe late-’70s Standards as having a brighter, punchier tone due to the maple-heavy construction and T-Top pickups, with sustain typical of Les Pauls. However, the extra weight can make them less comfortable for long gigs.
Market & Collectability
These guitars, once overlooked, have gained recognition in recent years. Not quite as collectible as ’50s Bursts or early ’60s models, but they offer genuine vintage Gibson character at a lower price point. The natural finish is particularly sought-after by enthusiasts who appreciate the aesthetic of unpainted wood grain.
UK Perspective
In the late ’70s, UK players were embracing heavier rock tones, and Les Pauls—especially Standards and Customs—were widely used in hard rock and early metal. Artists like Jimmy Page, Paul Kossoff, and later Slash (who brought attention back to vintage Les Pauls) contributed to the model’s desirability. While not a "holy grail," a well-kept 1979 Standard in natural is a solid investment and a beautifully made, roadworthy instrument.
