1957 Gibson Les Paul Junior – Sunburst

1957 Gibson Les Paul Junior – Sunburst

We present an original 1957 Gibson Les Paul Junior in its original Sunburst finish, built in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

History

Introduced in 1954 as a stripped-down alternative to the Standard, the Gibson Les Paul Junior was conceived around simplicity, raw tone, and pure functionality. Featuring a solid mahogany body and a single P-90 pickup, it quickly earned a reputation as one of the most direct and responsive instruments in Gibson’s lineup.

By 1957, the single-cut Junior had reached its most refined form. These later examples benefit from improved bridge placement compared to earlier versions, which are often prone to leaning bridges due to shallow stud angles. Combined with the slightly fuller neck profile introduced during this period, the 1957–1958 Juniors are widely regarded as the most desirable of the single-cut era—offering enhanced stability, superior playability, and exceptional tonal response.

Today, the ’57 Les Paul Junior stands as one of the purest expressions of vintage Gibson design, equally favored by collectors and professional players.

Condition

This exceptional 1957 Junior is in great overall condition, showing honest play wear including nicks, dings, and cosmetic marks across both the front and back of the body. It displays beautiful and consistent finish throughout the body and neck, contributing to a highly attractive and authentic vintage character. Importantly, there are no breaks, cracks, or structural repairs.

It features a one-piece mahogany body paired with a straight, one-piece mahogany neck and a rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays. The original frets and nut remain in good condition with plenty of life left, ensuring excellent playability.

As expected for a 1957 example, the guitar benefits from the improved bridge positioning, resulting in better intonation and overall stability compared to earlier Juniors.

Originality

This 1957 Gibson Les Paul Junior is all original with only the tuner buttons replaced. The tuners themselves are original; replacement buttons are common, as the originals often shrink or deteriorate over time. The original P-90 “dog-ear” pickup remains untouched and delivers outstanding tone, with all the bite, clarity, and dynamic response that define a great Junior. It retains its original black single-ply pickguard and lightweight aluminum wraparound tailpiece.

The pickup and electronic wiring remains untouched and intact, with no broken solder joints or modifications. All original and completely correct.

Comes in a newer Gibson Custom shop hardshell case.

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We are more than happy to provide further photos upon request. Simply contact us by email or phone for details, including close-up and internal photos of the instrument.