Gibson Heritage Custom (1964–65)

Gibson / 1964–65 Heritage Custom

[Staff Comment: Hoshino]

The "Heritage Custom" is an exceptionally rare model even among Gibson guitars.
I’m sure many of you looked at its appearance and thought of the Martin D-28, didn’t you?
The J-45 (introduced in 1942), the Hummingbird (introduced in 1960), and the DOVE (introduced in 1962) are all legendary instruments used in both solo performances and band settings.

From the 1950s through the 1960s, the "American folk" boom flourished, and the emergence of singers like Bob Dylan and Peter, Paul & Mary became the object of admiration and a major influence for many players.

One of the guitars that played a major role in the folk boom was the Martin D-28.
Its body, crafted from a combination of spruce and rosewood, offered a well-balanced tone and rich resonance that made it an instant hit.

I imagine Gibson likely wanted to create a guitar that combined spruce and rosewood, aiming to rival the Martin D-28.

Let’s take a look at Gibson’s hidden gem.

—The vibrant grain of the Brazilian rosewood

Beautifully grained Brazilian rosewood is used for the sides and back.
The simple decoration—consisting solely of tortoiseshell-patterned binding—allows the beautiful Brazilian rosewood grain to truly shine.

—Round-shouldered top

The top, which features a square shoulder similar to the Hummingbird and DOVE models, is crafted from fine-grained spruce and features tortoiseshell-pattern binding.
The rosette features the double-ring design that has been used on the J-45 since 1963.

—Pickguard

The black pickguard, reminiscent of the Epiphone Texan, stands out beautifully against the natural finish.

—Fingerboard

The ebony fingerboard features flower-shaped inlays made of mother-of-pearl and dot position markers.

- Bridge

The large ebony bridge, with a silhouette reminiscent of a ribbon, features vine inlays and a short saddle.

—Headstock

The large headstock features the Gibson modern logo, cactus inlays, and vine inlays.
The 2-piece truss rod cover is engraved with the word "Heritage."

—Tuning Machines

The tuners are KLUSON waffle-back tuners.
The nickel keystone buttons add to its cool look.

The Heritage Custom is a rare model even within the Gibson lineup, and it’s a guitar you don’t often see on the market.
Don’t miss this chance to try it out!

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Brazilian Rosewood
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Ebony
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 43mm
SCALE: 641mm
CASE: Gibson Hard Shell Case (Brown)

[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that this is a used/vintage item, and the information provided is based on our inspection.
Please be aware of this in advance.
- The condition is typical for its age, with weather checking, scratches from playing, and dents.
- The nut and saddle have been replaced (ivory).
- An additional bridge pin has been added to the neck heel.
- Peeling is visible on the first, second, and fourth of the four braces located along the inside of the back of the body.
- Side position marks on the 3rd to 9th frets are missing.

[Playing Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.5 mm on the 6th string side, 2.0 mm on the 1st string side
- Saddle height: approx. 3.0mm–3.5mm
- The instrument plays well with no muffled tones or buzzing.

*consignment
[Warranty Information]
Since this is a consignment item, our store warranty does not apply.
Of course, after purchase, we are happy to discuss adjustments, repairs, etc. (for a fee) upon request.
Please note that this item is not eligible for our mail-order trial service. (No returns accepted.)