Step into the golden era of electric guitars with this exceptional 1973 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe, a vintage instrument that perfectly captures the tone, feel, and legacy of early ‘70s Gibson craftsmanship. This example is almost fully original, featuring its sought-after mini-humbuckers, factory double-ring pickup surrounds, and the original hard case—making it a true collector’s piece as well as a player’s dream. Only mod being replaced jack plate.
 
The Les Paul Deluxe holds a unique place in Gibson history. Introduced in the late 1960s and produced throughout the 1970s, the Deluxe emerged during a transitional period for Gibson. In 1969, Gibson began using leftover Epiphone mini-humbuckers (originally designed for Epiphone models before Gibson acquired the brand), fitting them into Les Paul bodies with adapter rings. By the early ‘70s—like this 1973 example—the Deluxe had become a distinct model in its own right, featuring factory-routed bodies specifically designed for mini-humbuckers.
 
These pickups deliver a tonal character that sits beautifully between a P-90 and a full-size humbucker: tighter low end, focused mids, and a sparkling top-end clarity that cuts through any mix without sacrificing warmth.
 
This guitar remains impressively original, preserving the details that collectors and tone purists value most:
Original mini-humbuckers with double-ring surrounds
Factory hardware and electronics intact
Classic Les Paul construction: mahogany body with carved maple top
Comfortable ‘70s neck profile
Original finish with natural vintage aging and patina
Original Gibson hard case included
 
The double-ring pickup surrounds are a particularly cool vintage detail, adding both visual distinction and period-correct authenticity.
Plugged in, this Les Paul Deluxe delivers the unmistakable voice of the early ‘70s. The mini-humbuckers provide articulate note separation, making it ideal for everything from blues and classic rock to funk and early hard rock. Clean tones shimmer with clarity, while overdriven sounds retain definition and punch—perfect for players who want vintage character without muddiness.
 
The Les Paul Deluxe has long been favored by iconic guitarists who appreciated its unique tonal identity.
Players like Pete Townshend (The Who) famously used Deluxes in the early 1970s, helping define the powerful, aggressive live sound of the era. Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson of Thin Lizzy also wielded Les Paul Deluxes, crafting some of the most memorable dual-guitar harmonies in rock history. Even Ace Frehley of KISS started with a Deluxe before modifying it—highlighting how desirable these instruments were even among larger-than-life performers.
 
Vintage Les Paul Deluxes have seen a steady rise in appreciation as players and collectors rediscover their unique place in Gibson’s lineage. A fully original example from 1973—complete with original case—is becoming increasingly hard to find.
Whether you’re a collector seeking an authentic piece of Gibson history or a player chasing that articulate, vintage mini-humbucker tone, this 1973 Les Paul Deluxe delivers on every level.
 
Specifications
Model : Les Paul Deluxe
Year : 1973
Pots : 1377320 (CTS 1973 week 20)
Weight : 4,25kgs
Tuners : Kluson repro (original working set in case)
Pickups : Gibson mini humbuckers
Modification : replaced jack plate
Case : original Gibson Case