- The History of Rock and Folk, as Told by the Dove of Peace -
History of Gibson Dove
~The Birth of the DOVE: The Magnificent Square-Shoulder~
In 1960, riding the wave of growing popularity for acoustic guitars, Gibson introduced the “Hummingbird”—the company’s first square-shoulder model. With its striking visual impact and ornate decorations, it overturned the image of acoustic guitars as simple and unassuming instruments, becoming a symbol of “a new era for Gibson” in terms of both looks and sound.
Then, two years later in 1962, the “DOVE” was introduced as the top-of-the-line square-shoulder model, boasting an even more glamorous and bold personality.
True to its name, it featured a unique design element: a dove—a symbol of peace—adorned the pickguard and bridge. This design is said to have been conceived by Hartford Snyder, a Gibson craftsman at the time. He was also responsible for the pickguard designs of the Hummingbird and Epiphone’s “Excellent,” among others.
Furthermore, the unique sound character created by the maple body sides and back combined with the Tune-O-Matic saddles set it apart from other models not only in appearance but also in sound.
This avant-garde guitar was embraced by leading musicians such as Elvis Presley and Keith Richards, as well as Japanese artists like Shinji Tanimura and Shozo Ise, and has been the foundation for countless legendary performances.
In this special feature, we’ll focus on the DOVE—the pinnacle of the Gibson Square Shoulder series—and meticulously trace its history and the evolution of its specifications, accompanied by photos of actual instruments we’ve carried in our store. The potential embodied in the Square Shoulder format and Gibson’s unique aesthetic sensibility.
Let’s take another deep look at the DOVE, which can be considered the culmination of these elements.
Vintage Gibson DOVE Gallery
Here we introduce the vintage DOVE models we’ve carried in our store over the years.
Please note that some of the images are older.
Gibson 1962 Dove Cherry Sunburst
This is a model from the very first year the Dove was produced. The year of manufacture can be identified by the serial number printed on the orange label. Only 17 DOVE guitars were shipped in 1962—far fewer than the total number of original D-45s and SJ-200s produced—making this a rare and valuable instrument from a year when these guitars were scarcely ever seen on the market.
The dove and flower design on the pickguard is iconic to this model, but you can see that the stems of the flowers on this particular pickguard have thorns. As for what this floral motif actually represents, the company has not officially specified a “specific type of flower.”
It might be natural to consider this an abstract floral design rather than a specific variety, but personally, I believe it may be Rosa acicularis (wild rose). It is characterized by five peach-colored petals and a yellow center, and its stem has thorns.
Among the examples I’ve examined so far, some instruments with a 1962 serial number feature this thorn design, while I have not yet confirmed its presence on any models from 1963 or later. Additionally, since the engraving is done by hand, there are individual variations in details such as the size of the dove’s beak, the number of feathers, the flower’s color, and the arrangement of the branches and leaves.
The finish for the Dove’s first year of release is said to have been Cherry Sunburst, while the Natural color is said to have been shipped starting the following year, in 1963.
This particular guitar was originally Cherry Sunburst as well, but it has faded and now has a Natural-like appearance.While this is a common sign of aging seen in Gibson flat-top guitars with a Cherry Sunburst finish from 1963 to 1966,
I have never seen a 1962 serial number guitar fade to this extent. If you look closely, you can see that the original cherry color remains on the lower left side of the body, indicating that the color was originally very deep.
It exudes a dignified presence, having likely weathered countless stages. It’s an incredible instrument, even for a first-year model.
Rosa acicularis
Gibson 1962 Dove Cherry Sunburst
This is also a model from the first year the Dove was introduced. The year of manufacture can be identified by the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock.
Compared to the previous guitar, you can see that the cherry sunburst finish is still well-preserved.
The pickguard features a design without thorns on the stems, and the colors of the flowers and leaves, as well as the arrangement of the petals, are also different.
The Tune-O-Matic bridge is also a hallmark of this model.
This specification was first introduced on the 1961 J-200. It adds a mechanical nuance to the powerful sound of the 16-inch body.
The figured maple used for the sides and back also complements the reddish finish. The list price for the Dove at the time was $360. Since the Hummingbird was priced at $265, the Dove was positioned as the top-of-the-line model in the square-shoulder series. Considering that the J-200—the top-of-the-line flat-top model—also featured a maple body, it’s clear that the glamorous appearance and sound of maple were central to Gibson’s aesthetic sensibilities.
Gibson 1963 Dove Cherry Sunburst
Based on the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1963 model.
A stunning cherry sunburst finish. Unfortunately, the orange label has peeled off and is missing, but the guitar is in excellent condition that belies its age of over 60 years.
As for minor specification changes, similar to the Hummingbird, the bridge plate was changed from a single piece to a three-piece stacked design.
The Tune-O-Matic features the original nylon saddles. Unlike electric guitars, it does not bear an “ABR-1” stamp or a patent number. Since Gibson was likely the only manufacturer to use this bridge on acoustic guitars, such markings may not have been necessary.
The included case is also top-of-the-line for its era. It’s a USA-made hard case manufactured by Lifton. The black exterior with an orange interior is a hallmark of the 1960s. In the Gibson Price Guide, it’s listed as the “515 Faultless Case (Plush)” with a price of $50. Since the LG-0 cost $95 at the time, the case alone is extremely valuable.A Gibson emblem with a star is embedded between the metal fittings on the handle, and the Lifton emblem remains on the inside of the case. The words “BUILT LIKE A FAULTLESS” reflect the company’s confidence in its craftsmanship.
Gibson 1963 Dove Natural
This is a model from the first year of production for the natural finish. The year of manufacture can be identified by the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock. After shipments of the DOVE began in 1962, shipments of the natural finish began the following year, in 1963. Only 29 natural finish models were shipped in that first year. Like the 1962 models, this is a rare and valuable instrument from that year.
As with the J-45 and J-50, the natural finish required more carefully selected spruce for the top, so it was positioned as a higher-priced option than the sunburst finish; however, starting in 1963, prices were standardized across the J-45, J-50, Hummingbird, and Dove models (price differences would re-emerge among these models starting in the late 1960s).Among the jumbo-sized flat-top models, the J-200, SJ (Southern Jumbo), and SJN (Country Western) continued to have the Natural Finish version priced higher. For the SJ and SJN, prices were equalized in 1964 (though a price difference reemerged in the second half of the year), while for the J-200, the price difference persisted even after 1970.
In addition to the coloring, the truss rod cover bearing the “DOVE” name is also a distinctive feature. It appears that the same cover as the Hummingbird was used in the very early models, but it is believed that this truss rod cover began to be used around 1963.
Gibson 1964 Dove Natural
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1964 model. Even among the early production models, a close comparison reveals individual variations.
Most notably, this model has a body width of 403 mm, which is less than 16 inches—about 5 mm narrower than usual. The body waist is also 271 mm, about 10 mm narrower than standard. A side-by-side comparison shows that the body is slimmer.
Additionally, the bridge—which features a T.O.M. system—is deeply carved on the neck side, and you can see an “R” marked in that area. The “R” was also present on models from 1963.
The bridge plate has changed from a square to a hexagonal shape and is also larger.
This specification change is the same as on the J-45.
Gibson 1965 Dove Cherry Sunburst
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1964 model.
Even among the early models, a close comparison reveals individual variations.
One major difference is that this model’s body width is 403 mm, which is less than 16 inches—about 5 mm narrower than usual. The body’s waist is also 271 mm, about 10 mm narrower than usual. A side-by-side comparison clearly shows that the body is slimmer.
Gibson 1965 Dove Natural
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1964 model.
If you examine and compare even the early models in detail, you’ll notice individual variations.
Most notably, this model has a body width of 403 mm, which is less than 16 inches—about 5 mm narrower than usual. The body waist is also 271 mm, about 10 mm narrower than usual. When you compare them side by side, you can see that this body is slimmer.
Gibson 1966 Dove Natural
Based on the orange label, the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, and the bridge specifications, this is a 1966 model.
It features Grover 102N tuners.
The patina on the nickel plating and the milk-bottle-shaped shaft covers stamped with the “Patent” mark lend it a vintage feel.
While Grover tuners began to be used around this time, Kluson waffle-back tuners continued to be used as well.
Gibson 1966 Dove Cutaway Custom
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1966 model.
This is a Dove cutaway model that you’d be hard-pressed to find. The finish is a Tobacco Sunburst, which first appeared in 1966—a finish not typically seen on 1960s Dove models.
Combined with this color and the simple tortoiseshell-patterned pickguard,
it looks at first glance like a jumbo-sized CF-100, but
the bridge—unique to the Dove—and the label feature the word “Dove” written in cursive.
The truss rod cover bears the word “CUSTOM.”
Gibson 1967 Dove Cherry Sunburst
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1967 model.
While one might expect a bright, red cherry sunburst finish for 1967, this guitar features the fading cherry sunburst finish commonly seen up through 1966. It harmonizes beautifully with the cherry color of the sides and back, giving the guitar an overall beautiful and vibrant appearance. Although the tuning pegs have been replaced, they complement the gold hardware very well.
Gibson 1968 Dove Cherry Sunburst
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1967 model.
A characteristic of this year’s models is the change in the hue of the cherry sunburst finish on the body top; it is no longer the type of cherry that faded easily, and even now, nearly 60 years later, the vivid red color remains.
Another notable change is the method used to attach the pickguard.
As with the J-45 and Hummingbird, you can see that it is secured with screws. There are five screws in total.
Gibson 1968 Dove Double Pickguard Cherry Sunburst
Based on the orange label and the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1968 model.
The two pickguards mounted on the body top are truly striking.
Speaking of Gibson double pickguards, although it’s a different model, you can see Bob Dylan playing a J-200 Sunburst equipped with a double pickguard on stage at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.
In addition to this, the Everly Brothers and others have played this premium model, which gained popularity among country musicians and in the rock scene due to its striking appearance.
The Dove’s double pickguard is also a rare find.
The thick tortoiseshell-patterned pickguard features the iconic “dove” adorned with lustrous pearl,
and the floral pattern is accented with colors like red and green—a truly magnificent design.
Furthermore, the two pickguards are symmetrically arranged on both sides, creating a harmonious look.
Combined with the T.O.M. finish, this is a guitar brimming with rock flair.
Gibson 1969 Dove Natural
Based on the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1969 model.
Up until this point, the Dove had not undergone any major exterior specification changes, but starting this year, the bridge specifications were modified. The saddle was changed from T.O.M. to a wooden adjustable saddle, the same type used on the J-45 and Hummingbird models. While the dove inlay on the bridge remains, the mother-of-pearl dots have been removed.The pickguard is secured with five screws. It is made of the reddish resin material used on the J-45 starting in 1964. The dot on the “i” in the Gibson logo on the headstock is omitted, a design feature characteristic of 1969. The nut width is 43 mm, indicating a shift from the narrow neck typical of the late 1960s to a regular neck.
Elvis Presley, known as a musician who loved the Dove, played a customized 1969 Dove that was a gift from his father, Vernon Presley.Elvis Presley cherished that guitar and used it on numerous stages from 1971 to 1975. In particular, the image of him holding it during the legendary 1973 concert “Aloha from Hawaii”—which was broadcast via satellite to countries around the world—remains vividly etched in the memories of fans.There is also an anecdote from 1975, during a performance in Asheville, North Carolina, that he handed the guitar to a fan, as if in response to the audience’s enthusiasm. While the Elvis Dove features a black finish and name inlays on the fingerboard—a design that seems to symbolize “rock ’n’ roll”—it shares a common feature with this guitar: the Dove’s original rosewood bridge.
Gibson 1969 Dove Natural
Based on the serial number printed on the back of the headstock, this is a 1969 model.
While its specifications are similar to the previous model, it is distinguished by its ebony bridge. It features a regular neck with a nut width of 43 mm. The dot on the “i” in the Gibson logo is missing. Otherwise, it is based on 1960s specifications.
Since this was a transitional year leading up to the specification changes of 1970,
- 3-piece maple neck
- Schaller tuners with the Gibson logo
- Schaller tuners (some with the Gibson logo)
- A truss rod cover bearing the “DOVE” name, with a black center and white outer ring
instruments with these specifications can also be found.
History and Timeline of Gibson Dove Specification Changes
*Please note that this information is provided strictly as statistical data for reference purposes.
If you have “seen” any irregular or special specifications,
or if you “own” one, please send the details to the email address below.
Email Address: aco@tcgakki.com
Attn: Inoue, Advance Guitars
| Year | Topic |
| 1962 | Released as a high-end model of Gibson’s square-shoulder Hummingbird series. |
| 1963 | A natural finish was added as a color variation. [Body Top]: Spruce 【Saddle】：Tune-O-Matic, Large Studs or Normal Studs 【Body Width】：Approx. 408 mm (16.06 inches) [Logo]: Modern |
| 1964 | Although this may vary by individual instrument, the body width began to fall below 16 inches. ~Main Specifications~ |
| 1965 | The transition to narrow necks and a 14-degree head angle was common across the Gibson lineup. |
| 1966 | In addition to the Kluson waffle-back tuners, Grover 102N tuners also began to be used. |
| 1967 | The Cherry Sunburst color features a reddish finish that resists fading. |
| 1968 | Tune-O-Matic bridges had previously lacked any manufacturer name or patent markings, but |
| 1969 | TAs we enter 1969, specifications from the 1970s begin to appear alongside those of other models. |
A Few Words: “I believe the Dove is the model that best embodies the essence of 1960s Gibson. The decorative elements, such as the pickguard, feature a design that transcends the conventional concept of a guitar—one that remains captivating even today. The mechanics, including the Tune-O-Matic, are also outstanding. It possesses a profound charm that makes me want to keep updating information about it.”
Author: Inoue, Store Manager at Advance Guitars – Vintage Guitar Expert
An expert who has been playing instruments since childhood and has been involved in appraising and selling over several thousand vintage guitars. He maintains strong connections with collectors and dealers overseas. Guided by the belief that “the history of a guitar can change with a single color or stamp,” he strives to provide detailed and passionate commentary.
Qualifications and Achievements: 8 years as a musical instrument appraiser; contributor and supervising editor for Guitar Magazine and other publications
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