What arguably set the seed for what is now an R9, the Historic Re-issue Series ran through the '80s into the early '90s. The Les Paul 'Historic Reissue' (known as the 'Prehistoric') was made in the same factory as the Standards, but was crafted by a separate team (including Mr Murphy), and became the precursor to the Custom Shop as we now know it - which officially launched in '93. The quantities were low, due to the large uplift in price over a normal standard - the 1989 batch is believed to be somewhere in the region of around 500 worldwide. This specimen - serial number 9 0178 - denotes the 178th production unit from that year and still factory specification.
This is a Re-Sale instrument in Good condition* small knock to body, some were small marks to the case (see photos)
* for more information on this, and how we categorise instruments, please see the 'Pre-loved & Ex-Demo Condition Information' tab in the footer of this page
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The figured tops were selected from the most premium wood stock (*this particular one has a unique story to tell in this regard - see below) and as they were completely hand-made and highly specified, they were viewed then - and even more so now - as a great 'vintage' from the Les Paul story.
The identifying specifications to qualify this model as one of the Prehistorics:
* This particular specimen is more interesting insofar as the colour stamp under the pickup is decoded as Antique Gold, suggesting it was initially intended on the production card to be a 'Gold Top'. The light Mahogany back, and presence of some gold paint residue in the cavity also supports the suggestion that this was initially allocated for gold production. The finishing is factory original, with no overspray, suggesting that the colour choice was changed during manufacture (likely to satisfy a certain dealer order or fulfil an allocation that was required). As a result of this, the beautiful top isn't hidden away behind gold paint.
The condition is very good considering the age; light checking and some patina adds to the desirability. There is one small knock on the back (see pictures) but it is innocuous and out of the way. The case is also in great condition, with all the clasps functional.
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