Gibson / 1964 Dove
“Natural-Finish Dove”
The Dove debuted as the top-of-the-line model in the square-body series. The design of the
pickguard varies by year, giving each instrument a unique character.
This particular Dove was built in 1964, and it possesses a charm all its own—so let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.
—The Coloring of the Inlays on the Pickguard
In addition to the pearl dove inlay, leaves and branches are engraved, but the ink coloring varies depending on the era and individual instrument.
Comparing it to a 1963 Cherry Sunburst Dove—which features yellow branches, green leaves, and red flowers—the 1964 Natural-colored Dove has branches and leaves painted the same color, while the flowers are a pale orange.


The top is made of straight-grained spruce with a dense figure and finished in a natural color.
The rosette features a double-ring design.
A 7-piece multicolor binding is applied around the body.

Maple is used for the sides and back, with the back made from a single piece of maple—a luxurious feature.
It is finished in a cherry color.

The fingerboard is made of rosewood, and the double parallelogram inlays enhance its luxurious appearance.

The neck is crafted from a single-piece mahogany.
Weather checking runs along the entire neck, adding a vintage feel.
The neck has a slim profile that fits comfortably in the hand.

The rosewood bridge, designed exclusively for the Dove, features a dove-shaped pearl inlay and is equipped with a Tune-O-Matic.
Unlike the Tune-O-Matic found on guitars like the Les Paul or SG, this model uses flathead screws—similar to the ADJ—to raise or lower the saddles.


The headstock features the Gibson Modern logo, and a crown inlay shines at its center. The
bell-shaped truss rod cover has a black border and a white center, with the word “Dove” inscribed on it.


The tuning machines are KLUSON MH-500VX (commonly known as “Waffleback”).
These pegs are used on top-of-the-line models in series such as the Les Paul Custom and J-200, reaffirming that this model is also the top-of-the-line version of the square-shoulder body.


This model also features an additional contact microphone mounted on the bridge plate.

With a natural-colored top and a vibrant cherry finish, the tortoiseshell-patterned pickguard design stands out beautifully on this model. You’re sure to fall in love with the Dove’s
bright and bold sound.

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Maple
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 42.5mm
SCALE: 644mm
Electronics: CONTACT MIC
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case
[Condition]
- Although it’s over 60 years old, this guitar shows no major finish damage or cracks, and its weather checking adds to its charm.
- There is no muffled sound or buzzing, and it plays well.
- String action at the 12th fret: 3.1 mm on the 6th string side, 2.5 mm on the 1st string side. - The saddle height can be adjusted
via the Tune-O-Matic bridge.
- There is a repaired crack in the upper right corner of the soundhole.
- There is a crack in the lower left corner of the soundhole, but since there is bracing in the back, there is no risk of the crack spreading.
- The electronics are in good working order.
[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 months]
[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
Since we cannot offer customers the opportunity to try out the instrument when purchasing via mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after the product arrives. Please take your time to try out the product
at home; if you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
*The customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs.