Gibson 1960 Hummingbird "First-Year Model"

Gibson / 1960 Hummingbird

“1960”
That year is remembered as one in which a bold transformation took place in the history of Gibson Acoustics.
It marked the shift from the “round-shoulder” designs—such as the J-45, which had been the flagship model until then—to “square-shoulder” designs.
Leading the charge was this “Hummingbird.”

This particular instrument is an extremely rare first-year production model, manufactured in 1960—the historic year of its debut.
The Hummingbird was designed with a focus on "accompanying vocals," and the round-shoulder design was revised to produce a tone that would not interfere with the singing.
Thus, the Hummingbird was launched as Gibson’s new venture, but records show that only 156 units were shipped in its first year.
This is an astonishingly low number even when compared to the golden age that followed, and it is no exaggeration to say that simply encountering a “1960 model” on the market today is a miracle in itself.

Compelling, supreme details.
The vivid cherry sunburst finish, instantly recognizable, has matured into a deep vintage amber hue over more than half a century.

Particularly noteworthy is the iconic hummingbird pickguard.

A world apart from printed versions, it features intricate carving and coloring meticulously applied one by one to thick material.
It exudes the aura of a masterpiece crafted with the pride of an artisan.

Furthermore, the contrast between the gleaming white double parallelogram inlays and the jet-black fingerboard is striking.
You can almost see the passion Gibson poured into the Hummingbird of that era.

"The Hummingbird’s tone is a honeyed sound that accompanies the singer’s voice."
The origin of this celebrated sound is condensed into this first-year model.
The deep bass produced by the rich volume characteristic of the square-shoulder design, and the mellow midrange unique to vintage mahogany.
These elements resonate in complex harmony, producing sweet, mellow highs that burst right at your ear—a sound that modern guitars simply cannot reproduce.

There is another piece of history I’d like to share about this instrument.
Tracing the history of this instrument leads us to Keisuke Ishizu, the son of Kensuke Ishizu, founder of "VAN," the brand that shaped Japanese fashion culture.
Keisukeused to play inuniversity auditoriums andcountry bars, and it was the current owner’s father who was captivated by that sound.
Unable to contain his passion, he visited the Ishizu family, and from the day he acquired it, this guitar became a family treasure.

Keisuke traveled the world with this Hummingbird, and the countless decals affixed to its hard case stand as unwavering proof that they have crossed borders and traversed the ages together. As time passed, the guitar was passed down to the current owner.

This model was loved by countless legends, including Keith Richards.
Owning this "first-generation" model is synonymous with holding a piece of music history in your hands.
Retaining its original specifications down to the finest details, this is a collector’s piece of immense historical value.

A miraculous instrument that marked the beginning of a legend.
Please come experience its overwhelming aura in person at our store or hold it in your own hands.

[Staff Comment: Mochizuki]
First, I find myself reflecting on the fact that this guitar was born in the very year the Hummingbird debuted.
I am grateful that it has been preserved and passed down to the present day.
I’ve seen many examples of this model from the early 1960s, but I feel this one possesses an aura—a certain presence—that is second to none.
At the same time, all sorts of imaginings race through my mind.
I can sense a glimpse of the history woven into the case itself, and I find myself wondering, “Could it have been played in a place like this?”
As for the instrument’s condition, there are areas that require repair and maintenance.
However, it remains one of the best choices as a tool for creating music and an instrument that enriches daily life.

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 43.0 mm
SCALE: 643mm
CASE: Hardshell Case

[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 bridge is lifting; there is a bulge visible on the underside of the bridge
- There is a crack in the upper right corner of the soundhole and along the edge of the pickguard
- The pickguard is lifting
- A strap pin is attached to the neck heel

[Playing Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.5 mm on the 6th string side, 1.6 mm on the 1st string side
- There is some muting near the 14th fret.

[Warranty Information]
As this is a consignment item, our store warranty does not apply.
We are available to discuss adjustments, repairs, etc. (for a fee) upon request at the time of purchase or afterward.
Please note that this item is not eligible for our online trial service. (No returns accepted.)