Gibson Les Paul Special – A Rock Icon with Legendary Provenance
Offered here is an extraordinary and all-original 1959 Gibson Les Paul Special in the highly sought-after TV Yellow finish, double cutaway version — a true golden-era example from Gibson’s most revered period. Combining historical importance, collector-grade originality, and exceptional playability, this instrument represents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of rock history.
A Golden Year – 1959
The year 1959 represents the pinnacle of Gibson’s late-’50s production. While sunburst Standards often dominate the spotlight, the Les Paul Special double cut models from this era are equally revered for their raw tonal character, elegant symmetry, and purposeful simplicity.
This example retains its original mahogany body and neck, twin P-90 pickups, and original hardware and electronics. The potentiometers are correctly dated 134935, indicating Centralab manufacture in the 35th week of 1959 — perfectly consistent with the instrument’s production period and further confirming its originality.
The iconic TV Yellow finish has aged beautifully, developing the subtle patina and depth that only time can create. The guitar remains in great overall condition, with honest cosmetic wear that reflects its history without detracting from its appeal. It may have benefited from an old neck reset at some point — a common and professionally executed maintenance procedure on vintage Gibsons — ensuring proper neck angle, structural integrity, and superb playability today.
Owned by John Entwistle
What truly elevates this instrument is its extraordinary provenance. This very guitar once belonged to John Entwistle of The Who, one of rock’s most influential and innovative musicians. Known as “The Ox,” Entwistle was celebrated not only for his revolutionary bass playing but also for his vast and distinguished collection of rare instruments.
This Les Paul Special was sold at Sotheby's in 2003 as part of the landmark auction of Entwistle’s personal collection. It has remained with the same owner ever since. The original Sotheby’s auction catalog — in which the guitar is prominently pictured — is included, providing invaluable documentation and firmly establishing its authenticity and historical importance.
A Collector’s Prize — and a Player’s Instrument
Beyond its impeccable provenance, this 1959 Les Paul Special is a truly inspiring guitar. The original P-90 pickups deliver articulate bite, woody midrange warmth, shimmering cleans, and rich harmonic overdrive when pushed. The double cutaway body offers effortless upper-fret access, making it both expressive and comfortable in hand.
This is far more than a vintage guitar. It is a fully original 1959 Gibson (serial 929189), correctly dated pots (Centralab week 35 of 1959), formerly owned by John Entwistle, documented by Sotheby’s, and a guitar that genuinely sings. For the serious collector or discerning musician, it represents an exceptional convergence of tone, originality, and rock history.
Specifications :
Serial Number: 929189
Pot Codes: 134935 (Centralab – 1959, Week 35)Tuner : original Kluson tuners
Pickups : original P90
Case : recent Gibson case