Originally introduced as part of the long-running ES-125 family, this specific specimen — from the model’s second production year — represents both historical significance and enduring musical versatility.
 
Gibson’s ES-125 lineage traces back to the post-war revival of the brand’s entry-level archtop electrics. The original ES-125 first appeared in the mid-1940s as a modest, single-pickup model aimed at jazz, blues, and rhythm players alike. By the late 1950s, Gibson had explored thinner body designs and updated appointments to suit evolving musical trends. The ES-125T, featuring a slimmer hollow body and a Florentine cutaway, debuted in 1956, followed by a dual-pickup version shortly thereafter. 
 
In 1960, Gibson introduced the ES-125TCD — essentially a twin-pickup, thinline version of the classic ES-125 with a sharp cutaway and two P-90 single-coil pickups. Around 1961, the nomenclature in Gibson’s catalogs shifted slightly (TCD → TDC), but guitars produced during this early run are still widely recognized by collectors and players as ES-125 TCDs. 
 
This 1961 model exemplifies classic early ’60s Gibson appointments:
16″ laminated maple hollow body with Florentine cutaway. 
Cherry sunburst finish.
Mahogany neck bound into the body with 20 frets, providing a comfortable and expressive playing surface. 
A pair of original Gibson P-90 single-coil pickups, delivering a broad tonal palette from mellow jazz tones to more aggressive blues and rock flavors.
Kluson Deluxe tuners, a floating rosewood bridge, and a trapeze tailpiece. 
 
 
Plugged in, the ES-125 TCD surprises players with its dynamic and expressive voice. The dual P-90s provide:
Warm, rich low end with smooth mids that work beautifully for jazz and blues.
Crisp articulation that cuts through in ensemble settings, while still delivering growl and bite when pushed with overdrive.
 
The 24.75″ scale and ample 1 11/16″ nut width allow for a relaxed fretting hand, ideal for both chordal work and agile lead lines. Combined with its hollow-body resonance, this guitar rewards nuanced playing and responds to touch with a musical sensitivity rare in modern instruments.
 
This particular 1961 ES-125 TCD is preserved in excellent condition, showing light wear consistent with careful use over six decades. Notably, it includes its original Gibson hard case, a feature that not only protects the instrument but also elevates its collectible value. 
 
Specs
Model : ES-125 TCD
Year : 1961
Serial : 11856
Tuners : Single line Kluson
Case : Original case