When the Gibson ES-5, their first production model to incorporate three pickups, was introduced at NAMM in the summer of 1949, it was hailed that 'the three separately controlled, adjustable magnetic pickups reproduce the full rich tones and harmonics to make the ES-5 truly the instrument of a thousand voices'.
This particular ES-5 was owned by legendary Yes guitarist and collector, Steve Howe, and has been lovingly taken care of. This guitar boasts a beautiful quilted maple top, back and sides finished in vintage sunburst. Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' shape and a stunning Brazilian rosewood fingerboard with block MOP inlays. Three original P90's with three master volumes lined up near the lower f-hole and a master tone on the upper cutaway bout.
-From the Steve Howe Collection
-Some divots in fretboard between the first few frets
-Master tone knob is slightly lighter (in color) than the rest, but appears period correct
-Repaired side cracks on treble side of body
Serial #A-12261 comes w/ Hardshell case and COA
