’77 Gibson for a ’77 Gibson!

Engagement Guitar - 1977 Gibson Less Paul Artisan

Sorry I’ve not been bloggin’ much lately, been a bit preoccupied with popping the question to my missus. Did the deed yesterday, Nicky said yes! Rather than get a diamond ring, which to be honest I think is probably the least interesting thing you can spend a lot of money on, I got her a guitar instead!

Neither of us play guitar, so at first sight it seems quite a random choice.. But her maiden name is Gibson, same as the legendary guitar makers, so I thought I’d get her something to remind her of that when she becomes Mrs Cookie.

I wanted to get her a vintage Gibson (this sort of thing just gets better with age), preferably a 1977 model to match her birth year (and mine). After a lengthy bit of research I decided on the Les Paul Artisan model, it’s basically a Les Paul Custom with hearts & flower inlays on the headstock and fingerboard. Beautiful looking thing, thought Nicky would appreciate all the detailing, they didn’t come in many colours, but this walnut finish was my favourite.

The fact that it had quite a short production run (1976-1982) didn’t help any, I couldn’t find a single one for sale in the UK. Only the states seemed to have any Artisan’s that people were prepared to part with, some way too pricey, some played to shit, but when this one popped up it seemed a good price and in good nick, so I rather nervously wired my money across the pond and hoped for the best. Well Neals Guitars did us proud and it arrived safe and sound.

I think I made the right call, Nicky loves it and has no plans to trade it in for a diamond! More pics on my Flickr »

38 thoughts on “’77 Gibson for a ’77 Gibson!

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  2. Massive congrats old chaps from the Badger tribe, are you both learning the axe skills?

    I hear some kind of mental metal hackney sock monster duo taking shape…

    I hear you have the Marshall stack already!

  3. Congratulations! An inspired gift. You two are made for each other, it’s great to see two people so happy together. Well played. Gibbo – you’re gonna have to learn to play now!

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  5. What an awesome story of romantic loveliness – congratulations to both of you – and looking forward to the duet at the wedding ;-)

  6. Congrats:)

    I read your CDT Thru Hike journal and downloaded the 2 hour movie. I’ve got a PCT hike on the planner for next year. You guys have convinced me that the weight and bother of carrying a high quality Camcorder is worth it. The movie was great! Thanks for your efforts and congratulations again!

  7. Hey, I have enjoyed the blog after finding you due to a mutual interest in long distance hiking a few months ago.

    Congratulations! The guitar is outstanding!

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  9. a ’77 gibson les paul, tobacco sunburst with triple humbuckers? This is the guitar you could out-play John Lee Hoooker on? Seriously guys, this is like getting a fucking Lear Jet or a Rolls Royce Silver Ghost…it’s a part of history. And now it’s YOUR history. Love you. x

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  11. congratulations ! It’s awesome and a good well thinking present !!! your lady is lucky !!! I hope for you both all the good things( sorry for my english)

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