Assessing Gibson Guitar Values - 3 Keys to Understanding Your Guitar's Value

by Derek Douglas
Understanding Gibson guitar values is not a black and white, finite task. There are, unfortunately, many shades of grey, and many things you need to be aware of. Here are three key points that will help you get the best understanding of what your Gibson is worth.

1. The Buyer - Who is buying the guitar will play a major role in how much you get for the guitar. Is it a collector? If so, they may actually be willing to buy the guitar at a premium (more than it's worth) because they intend to hang on to it and let it appreciate. Is the buyer a reseller? In this case, the buyer will be trying to pay you the absolute lowest amount because they immediately intend to sell the guitar for a profit. Be careful in this scenario, as the buyer may take advantage of your ignorance of guitar values. Arm yourself with as much information as you can.

2. The Condition - Obviously, the condition of anything you're selling plays a role in how much money you get. Be aware that a buyer interested in an older or vintage guitar will be particularly fussing about the condition of the guitar. Also, if the guitar has had any modifications,
expect the value to decrease significantly.

3. The Number - How many of this particular guitar were made? If it was a million, expect value to be lower because supply is so high. If it's an original Gibson Explorer and there are less than 100 in existence, expect the price tag to be in the hundreds of thousands. Your guitar probably falls in the middle somewhere, but knowing how many of your particular guitar came off the assembly line will help you determine it's value.

At the end of the day, no website or guide can tell you exactly what your guitar is worth, but by knowing these three factors you'll be better educated.

At the end of the day, how much is your guitar worth? Only as much as a buyer is willing to pay you.