Gibson Historic Super 400P Prototype

In 1993, Gibson laid the groundwork for a standalone Custom, Art & Historic division by organizing and expanding its Historic Collection. Along with the '59 Les Paul Standard reissue, the cover guitar for the 1993 Historic Collection catalog was the prototype for a reissue of the '39 Super 400P, the archtop that set the standard for archtop guitars in the prewar era.

Gibson's Terry Ryan spec'd the new model from an original example owned by Tom Van Hoose (author of a book on the Super 400) and played a major role in building the prototype. After the guitar was photographed for the Historic Collection catalog and displayed at a NAMM show, Gibson thanked Ryan for his efforts by giving him the instrument.

This instrument (AR3836) is still in mint condition. It comes with its original leather-covered hard case and case cover, along with the original blue ribbon, a copy of the 1993 Historic Collection catalog, documentation from Gibson and a letter from Ryan. It is offered at $15,000.

This instrument is SOLD

For further enjoyment...

Close of body
Tailpiece
Fingerboard
Headstock
Back of headstock
Back of neck
Full back view
Back of body
Case
Case cover
Guitar and case
Guitar in case
Case with documents