USED GIBSON USA / 1974 SG Special [04]

1974 Gibson SG Special Walnut

A 1974 Gibson SG Special has arrived.

The SG debuted in 1961, marking a shift from the previous Les Paul shape to a double-cutaway solid-body design. The entire Les Paul series at the time—including the Standard, Custom, and Junior models—was transitioned to the SG, and the SG Special was introduced as part of that lineup.

Initially marketed as a budget version of the Standard model, it featured two P-90 pickups and a 2-volume, 2-tone, 3-way selector control. Around 1965, the tremolo unit—which had previously been an optional feature—became standard equipment. The following year, in 1966, the specifications were updated to include a “narrow neck” with a narrower nut width and a “large guard” (batwing) pickguard.

Production was subsequently discontinued around 1971 with the introduction of its successor, the SG Pro, but the model was reintroduced around 1972 with a black-covered mini-humbucker and remained in production until 1977.

This instrument is an SG Special manufactured in 1974.

It features a three-piece mahogany neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and a two-piece mahogany body. The slightly larger headstock bears the Gibson logo, and the guitar features a simple configuration that combines Kluson Gibson Deluxe Keystone tuners with a single-ply black truss rod cover.

The binding-less neck features small-block inlays and a volute on the underside of the nut. It also features wide and low frets.
Please note that this instrument has previously experienced three neck breaks, which have been repaired with adhesive and refinished. Additionally, a chip on the headstock side has been repaired with adhesive.

The serial number is “173179.” Based on the number alone, the guitar is believed to have been manufactured between 1970 and 1975; however, the pot dates “1377401 (Neck Vol)” and “1377401 (Neck Tone)”“137XX01 (Bridge Vol)” and “1377401 (Bridge Tone)” confirm the use of 1974 CTS pots, and based on the condition of the solder, we have determined this to be a 1974 model.

Although this model is originally equipped with mini-humbuckers with black covers, this particular instrument is fitted with a DiMarzio Vintage Minibucker (DP241). In addition, the bridge has been replaced with a later-production Gibson ABR-1 reissue wired bridge, and signs of replacement can also be seen on the jack, the truss rod cover (which has a chip), and some of the screws.
There are numerous scratches and dents throughout the body resulting from normal use, and there are also signs of previous repairs.

The frets are low, similar to the originals, and approximately 70% of their original height remains; the guitar is currently playable without any muffled tones. Although a washer has been added to the truss rod, we have confirmed that it moves approximately 60 degrees in both directions.

Although there is a history of numerous repairs and replaced parts, there are no issues with playability, and this is a vintage SG in “player’s condition” that you can enjoy.

S/N: 173179
Weight: 3.00 kg
Accessories: Non-original hard case (Gibson USA)

Condition Grade: B+: Some minor scratches, but no issues with normal use

Serial Number: 173179
Year of Manufacture: 1974
Case: Hard case
Weight: 3.00 kg
Condition: The neck has been repaired three times for breakage, and the headstock has been repaired. The pickups, bridge, jack, truss rod cover, and some screws have been replaced. It is in "player's condition" with scratches, dents, and repair marks visible throughout. Approximately 70% of the frets remain, and playability is good.

* As this is a used item, there may be scratches, dents, or other imperfections that are not clearly visible in the photos or not listed here. Please be aware of this in advance.

* Where specifications such as truss rod, remaining fret height, and string height are listed, these measurements were taken by our staff during setup and are subject to change due to environmental factors such as climate and humidity.
These measurements are intended as a reference at the time of purchase; we do not guarantee that the measurements will be identical when the item arrives.

* This is a one-of-a-kind item that is listed simultaneously on multiple marketplaces, including our in-store display. While we strive to promptly remove product listings upon sale, updates are not always made in real time.
We sincerely apologize in the unlikely event that the item is sold out after you place your order, and we ask for your understanding.