Gibson Firebird and Thunderbird custom finish options

Six new solid body guitars. Ten exciting custom colors

When the Gibson Thunderbird and Gibson Firebird were introduced in late 1963, they were offered with a Sunburst finish as standard, and in 10 new colors for an extra $15. Golden Mist poly, Cardinal Red, Heather poly, Inverness Green poly, Silver Mist poly, Ember Red, Kerry Green, Polaris White, Frost Blue and Pelham Blue poly. These Duco colours were available throughout their years of manufacture until 1969.

The brochure below, from 1963, details the original custom Thunderbird finish options for the reverse body basses.

These colors were not advertised for other Gibson bass guitars, (though Pelham blue and Polaris White EB basses certainly exist). Unfortunately, no shipping information by color is available, and these custom color basses are very rare. Some Gibson Thunderbird and Firebird custom finishes do come up, but of the 1700 or so total Thunderbird production (1963-69), the vast majority were the standard sunburst. Some finishes, such as Golden Mist poly, Heather poly, and Silver Mist poly are exceptionally rare, if existing at all.

A similar brochure was produced in 1965 for the non-reverse Thunderbird and Firebird models. The same ten finishes are listed as in the previous brochure.

These Gibson custom finishes have certainly gained in popularity over the last fifty years, and such solid colors seem to be the finish of choice in Thunderbird and Firebird restorations. In part due to their rarity, in part their good looks - but also as a solid cover for the invariable headstock repair that so many of these instruments have suffered.

The 1976 Bicentennial reissue Thunderbirds were offered in Ebony, White, Tobacco Sunburst and Natural only. More recent limited editions with unusual finishes include the 2007 Thunderbird Studio in Cherry, 2012 non-reverse Thunderbird in Pelham Blue and 2013 50th anniversary Thunderbird in Bullion Gold.

Gibson Bass guitars for sale

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1972 Vintage Gibson Bass Guitar-Cherry / Brown-Good Condition-Small Amp Included

Sheboygan, Wisconsin, 530**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1700

The product is a vintage Gibson bass guitar from 1972, featuring a cherry / brown finish. This classic instrument is highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike for its authentic vintage charm and timeless sound. With its well-known brand and specific year of manufacture, this guitar is sure to be a valuable addition to any collection of vintage musical instruments
This bass is in good condition and belonged to my uncle who used it for a good amount of years. Minor scratches and ... more

Gibson Bass Guitar

Califon, New Jersey, 078**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1375

The Gibson Bass Guitar is a 4-string electric bass guitar in a striking red color. It is part of the SG model series, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and iconic design. Perfect for musicians looking for a reliable and stylish bass guitar to enhance their playing experience. Includes original hard case.... more

gibson bass guitar 4 string

Maple Shade, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1188

The Gibson Bass Guitar 4 String is a high-quality electric bass guitar designed for musicians looking for a powerful and versatile sound. With its solid body construction and distinctive red color, this SG model delivers rich bass tones that are perfect for both live performances and studio recordings. Featuring four strings, this bass guitar offers a wide range of notes and harmonies, making it ideal for bass players looking to explore different genres and styles of music. Built by the renowned... more

VINTAGE 1970'S 1972 1973 GIBSON BASS GUITAR SPEAKER AMPLIFIER # G-100B ORIGINAL

Northfield, Ohio, 440**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$595

THIS IS AN ORIGINAL COMPLETE GIBSON BASS GUITAR AMPLIFIER, CIRCA 1970'S (1972-1975). MODEL NUMBER G-100B. IT IS IN VERY GOOD USED CONDITION WITH A NICE FINISH THROUGHOUT. THE OUTER CASE IS NOT GOUGED OR BEAT UP. THE COVER SCREEN HAS NO RIPS. ALL ORIGINAL KNOBS ARE INTACT. THE UNIT HUMS WHEN PLUGGED IN AND SEEMS TO WORK FINE. AS I HAVE NO WAY TO TEST IT, IT IS BEING SOLD AS-IS WITH WORKING CONDITION UNKNOWN. THERE WILL BE NO RETURNS OR REFUNDS (FULL OR PARTIAL) ON ITEMS SOLD. RARE AND HARD TO ... more

1960's Gibson Bass guitar bridge pickup Patent Sticker mount ring 1964 era EB

Graham, North Carolina, 272**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$300

Vintage 1964 era Gibson EB Bass guitar bridge pickup. Functions fine. Tests at 6 64K. Check out pictures. Only 2 5 inches of wire. Original mounting ring included. Please ask any questions that need to be addressed before purchasing. Thanks for looking
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Vintage late 60's ear. 1970's Gibson BASS Bridge for EB-0 EB-3 EB-2 Nylon Saddle

Miami, Florida, 331**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$250

Original vintage chrome plated Gibson Bass "Flat" bridge in vintage condition. Original equipment for many Gibson basses from late 60's - early 70's era. It has normal vintage wear and some pitting in the chrome plate. This one has the older nylon saddles.
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