In 2001, and especially in 2003, Gibson produced a limited number of Historic Reissue models featuring genuine Brazilian Rosewood (Rio Rosewood) fingerboards. These instruments, officially certified and individually numbered by Gibson, are considered the Holy Grail of the Historic Reissue series and command significantly higher prices than equivalent Reissue models from the same year fitted with Indian rosewood. Let’s clear up one thing right away: our 2003 Les Paul R9 is not equipped with a Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard. It was built only a few hundred serial numbers away from the Brazilian Rosewood run, but it shares the same outstanding craftsmanship, exceptional maple top, and meticulous finishing that have made the early-2000s Historic Reissues legendary among Les Paul enthusiasts. Quite simply, this guitar is an absolute monster.

This 2003 Historic Reissue Les Paul R9 features the celebrated Authentic ’59 Rounded “C” neck profile. If you’ve never played one of these necks, you’ve never truly experienced what a great Les Paul neck feels like. It’s substantial without being oversized, rounded without feeling bulky, filling the hand perfectly while remaining incredibly comfortable and effortless to play. The neck also benefits from a long neck tenon for enhanced resonance and sustain, along with rolled fingerboard binding for exceptional playing comfort. The 2003 Historic Reissues truly stand in a class of their own.

To top it all off, this Gibson Les Paul Historic Reissue ’59 is both stunning and remarkably lightweight. Its maple top displays the characteristic late-’50s style figuring, with beautifully defined and consistent flame. Simply breathtaking. You might expect a non-weight-relieved Les Paul to tip the scales at an intimidating weight, but not this one. It weighs just 3.78 kg (8.33 lbs), making it exceptionally light for a solid, non-weight-relieved Les Paul. This is thanks to the outstanding quality of the tonewoods, particularly the lightweight, low-density mahogany used for both the body and neck, which also features an exceptionally beautiful grain.

As a pre-owned instrument, it has been very well cared for. There are a few small dings and light marks on the back, while the top remains virtually unmarked. The neck and frets are in excellent condition, showing no noticeable wear or signs of heavy playing.

This superb guitar comes complete with its original hardshell case, hang tags, and Certificate of Authenticity.