Vintage Guitars
I'm happy with this
This website uses cookies to personalise content and adverts, to provide social media features, and to analyse traffic. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. See terms and conditions
GIBSON | CATALOGS | 1978 | PAGE 8

Gibson L5-S and SG Custom

1978 Gibson Quality / Prestige / Innovation catalog, page 8

Details of two high-end Gibson solid body models, the Gibson L-5S and SG Custom guitars.

This was the final catalog inclusion of the SG Custom (under Norlin ownership) though it remained in price lists through 1979. Two new finishes were offered here (as compared to the previous 1975 solid bodies catalogue): Cherry and Tobacco Sunburst, joining the previously available White and Walnut. Sales had declined continually since a 1974 high of 939 - and the new finishes did not significantly improve things - just 217 SG Customs left the Kalamazoo plant in 1978.

The L-5S was shown for the first time with the adjustable TP-6 tailpiece as opposed to the gold/silver L5 tailpiece it had previously shipped with. It also was offered in new finishes for 1978, with Natural, Antique Sunburst and Fireburst joining the established Cherry Sunburst.

1978 US prices for these models were as follows: Gibson L-5S: $1079 (the second most expensive solid body listed, only after The Les Paul on page 2); SG Custom: $799.

1978 Gibson Quality / Prestige / Innovation catalog, page 8: Gibson L-5S and SG Custom
Got an opinion on the contents of this page? Disagree with something written above? Please comment

2024 Vintage Guitar price guide 2024 Vintage Guitar price guide

Need the value of your guitar? The Official Vintage Guitar Magazine Price Guide 2024 is out now: Amazon