An extraordinary player's vintage Gibson, this early 1952/53 Les Paul began life as a Goldtop before being professionally converted to Burst specifications during the 1970s, a period when many musicians sought the appearance and functionality of the then-undervalued Sunburst Les Paul Standards. Today, the guitar stands as a remarkable blend of 1950s Gibson craftsmanship, coveted original PAF pickups, and decades of vintage character.
The conversion includes a refinish to a classic Sunburst finish, upgraded ABR-1 bridge and stop tailpiece configuration, and a slimmer neck profile reminiscent of a 1960 Les Paul Standard. The result is an exceptionally comfortable and highly playable instrument that combines the resonance and feel of an early-'50s Les Paul with many of the features players associate with the legendary Bursts.
Adding significantly to its appeal are two original Patent Applied For (PAF) humbuckers, delivering the warm, articulate, and harmonically rich tone that has defined countless classic recordings. These highly desirable pickups provide outstanding clarity, dynamic response, and the unmistakable voice that has made original PAF-equipped Gibsons among the most sought-after guitars in the world.
The guitar has undergone a professional headstock repair by the respected team at Chicago Fret Works. The repair is stable and professionally executed, ensuring long-term reliability while preserving the instrument's playability and tonal integrity. Upgraded tuners, bridge, and stop tailpiece further enhance tuning stability and performance.
A unique opportunity to acquire a genuine early-1950s Les Paul featuring original PAF pickups, vintage Burst aesthetics, and outstanding playability at a fraction of the cost of an original 1958–1960 Sunburst Standard.
Specifications
Model: Gibson Les Paul Conversion Burst
Year: 1952/1953
Original Finish: Goldtop
Current Finish: Sunburst Conversion (Performed During the 1970s)
Body: Solid Mahogany with Carved Maple Top
Neck: Mahogany
Neck Profile: Slimmed Profile Similar to a 1960 Les Paul Standard
Fingerboard: Brazilian Rosewood
Scale Length: 24.75"
Nut Width: Approximately 1 11/16"
Frets: Vintage Style
Pickups: 2 Original Gibson PAF Humbuckers
Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Toggle Switch
Bridge: Upgraded ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic
Tailpiece: Upgraded Stop Bar Tailpiece
Tuners: Upgraded Tuners
Hardware Finish: Nickel
Neck Joint: Set Neck Construction
Case: Hardshell Case
Condition: Vintage Player Grade
Condition Notes
Original 1952/53 Les Paul Goldtop Converted to Burst Specifications
Sunburst Refinish Performed During the 1970s
Two Original PAF Humbuckers
Professionally Repaired Headstock Break by Chicago Fret Works
Slimmed Neck Profile Similar to a 1960 Les Paul Standard
Upgraded Tuners
Upgraded ABR-1 Bridge and Stop Tailpiece
Honest Vintage Wear Throughout
Structurally Sound and Fully Playable
Exceptional Resonance, Sustain, and Classic PAF Tone
