1976 Gibson ES-345 TD Sunburst

Gibson's ES-345 was the third of the three ES-3x5 series that began with the ES-335T in 1958. The ES-345's Stereo Varitone circuitry set it apart from the other two initially until the ES-355 began being produced in greater numbers with the same circuitry later that year. As the middle tier in the trio, the ES-345 featured upgraded split parallelogram fretboard inlays and gold hardware. Structurally, it was the same as the other two with a thinline archtop body with solid Maple center block to cut down on excessive feedback at high volumes. This example from 1976 bears a serial number indicating it was manufactured in the Nashville plant about a year after it opened. It also retains its original Switchcraft stereo cable which is so often left in the back of an amp!

Make and Model: Gibson ES-345TD Sunburst

Year: 1976. Serial 001055xx (00 prefix = 1976)

Specifications: Thinline, semi-hollow archtop, two patent number humbucking pickups, Maple neck with volute. Nut width = 1 9/16", .80" neck depth at first fret, 1.04" depth at 12th fret. 8lbs 6oz.

Originality: All parts original except the strings! Original Switchcraft stereo cable included.

Condition: Excellent! No breaks or repairs. Light scratches on the finish but no visible checking. The gold cover on the neck pickup show thorough tarnish and is missing some plating. The case exterior is a little dusty/worn with some tears and is missing its handle. The latches work well and the interior is clean. 

Playability: Excellent! It’s a dream to play. The neck is straight and the frets are full height without excessive player wear. The neck set is good and the truss rod is fully adjustable. 

Notes: This clean ES-345 has just come in from the original owner and has been very well preserved. He played it lightly and the neck and frets reflect that. All electronics are in excellent working condition. The finish shows some light scratching and a little checking on the back but is overall very clean. I'm confident you'll love this clean 1976 Gibson ES-345 TD!