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Gibson Firebird and Thunderbird custom finish options

Six new solid body guitars. Ten exciting custom colors

When the Gibson Thunderbird and Gibson Firebird were introduced in late 1963, they were offered with a Sunburst finish as standard, and in 10 new colors for an extra $15. Golden Mist poly, Cardinal Red, Heather poly, Inverness Green poly, Silver Mist poly, Ember Red, Kerry Green, Polaris White, Frost Blue and Pelham Blue poly. These Duco colours were available throughout their years of manufacture until 1969.

The brochure below, from 1963, details the original custom Thunderbird finish options for the reverse body basses.

1963 Gibson Thunderbird / Firebird color chart

These colors were not advertised for other Gibson bass guitars, (though Pelham blue and Polaris White EB basses certainly exist). Unfortunately, no shipping information by color is available, and these custom color basses are very rare. Some Gibson Thunderbird and Firebird custom finishes do come up, but of the 1700 or so total Thunderbird production (1963-69), the vast majority were the standard sunburst. Some finishes, such as Golden Mist poly, Heather poly, and Silver Mist poly are exceptionally rare, if existing at all.


Thunderbird/Firebird color chart

A similar brochure was produced in 1965 for the non-reverse Thunderbird and Firebird models. The same ten finishes are listed as in the previous brochure.

These Gibson custom finishes have certainly gained in popularity over the last fifty years, and such solid colors seem to be the finish of choice in Thunderbird and Firebird restorations. In part due to their rarity, in part their good looks - but also as a solid cover for the invariable headstock repair that so many of these instruments have suffered.

The 1976 Bicentennial reissue Thunderbirds were offered in Ebony, White, Tobacco Sunburst and Natural only. More recent limited editions with unusual finishes include the 2007 Thunderbird Studio in Cherry, 2012 non-reverse Thunderbird in Pelham Blue and 2013 50th anniversary Thunderbird in Bullion Gold.


Gibson Bass guitars for sale

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1972 USA GIBSON Bass Guitar Bridge Cover SCRIPT Nickel Vintage Part

1972 USA GIBSON Bass Guitar Bridge Cover SCRIPT Nickel Vintage Part

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$495

Nickel finish, Gibson script logo, vintage wear with handwear patina, 4 3 / 16?? Hole spacing. RARE Original early 1970s Gibson part, Thanks for looking!
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Gibson Bass Guitar

Gibson Bass Guitar

Califon, New Jersey, 078**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1375

The Gibson Bass Guitar is a 4-string electric bass guitar in a striking red color. It is part of the SG model series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and iconic design. Perfect for musicians looking for a reliable and stylish bass guitar to enhance their playing experience. Includes original hard case.... more
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VINTAGE 1970S 1972 1973 GIBSON BASS GUITAR SPEAKER AMPLIFIER # G-100B ORIGINAL

VINTAGE 1970'S 1972 1973 GIBSON BASS GUITAR SPEAKER AMPLIFIER # G-100B ORIGINAL

Northfield, Ohio, 440**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$595

THIS IS AN ORIGINAL COMPLETE GIBSON BASS GUITAR AMPLIFIER, CIRCA 1970'S (1972-1975). MODEL NUMBER G-100B. IT IS IN VERY GOOD USED CONDITION WITH A NICE FINISH THROUGHOUT. THE OUTER CASE IS NOT GOUGED OR BEAT UP. THE COVER SCREEN HAS NO RIPS. ALL ORIGINAL KNOBS ARE INTACT. THE UNIT HUMS WHEN PLUGGED IN AND SEEMS TO WORK FINE. AS I HAVE NO WAY TO TEST IT, IT IS BEING SOLD AS-IS WITH WORKING CONDITION UNKNOWN. THERE WILL BE NO RETURNS OR REFUNDS (FULL OR PARTIAL) ON ITEMS SOLD. RARE AND HARD TO ... more
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One 70s GIBSON Bass TUNER Bent Les Paul Flying V Marauder S-1 some L6-S ES335

One 70's GIBSON Bass TUNER Bent Les Paul Flying V Marauder S-1 some L6-S ES335

Miami, Florida, 331**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$35

Late 70's to early 80's. Button shaft is bent. Nickel plated and in good shape. As used on many vintage Gibson guitars in 80's and 70's.
Sales tax will be added by ebay. I will ship most of my items to many countries other than USA, but I ask that all buyers contact me before making a purchase. Foreign buyers are responsible for all of their taxes and customs duties. I will NOT declare lower values or declare items as gifts under any circumstance.
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Gibson Bass Guitar String Saddle Set SHAVED Vintage EB -0 Project Part

Gibson Bass Guitar String Saddle Set SHAVED Vintage EB -0 Project Part

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$49

From a Two Post Gibson bass bridge??4 saddles, shaved down, Project parts, THANKS for looking!
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60s Gibson Bass Guitar Humbucker Pickup Cover  EB-0 EB-1 EB-3 Vintage Part

60s Gibson Bass Guitar Humbucker Pickup Cover EB-0 EB-1 EB-3 Vintage Part

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$139

Chrome over brass, normal light vintage wear, nice original vintage Gibson part. Thanks for looking
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