2001 Gibson Les Paul Standard "Cherry Sunburst" What is the VALUE?

Question

I have a 2001 Gibson Les Paul Standard that I purchased to give to my son when he was old enough to play and respect. My son has never taken interest in guitar (and therefore this guitar has never been played) so I am considering selling the guitar. I have looked for this guitar on line in the same style, condition and color but have had no success. I am trying to get an actual value so I can either sell the guitar or get the proper insurance value as an investment. Please help identify a realistic cost for this item.

Thank you for your opinions.

Answer 1

The Vintage Guitar Price Guide for 2013 has the following LP Standard models made in 2001:



Les Paul Standard (reintroduced)

2000-2008 Figured wood Exc cond: low $1700, high $2000

2000-2008 Various colors, plain top: Exc cond: low $1500, high $1900



Les Paul Standard Plus (Cherry sunburst standard with mid-level flame)

2001-2008 Exc. cond: Low $1700, high $2000



There was also a sparkle model in 2001 but that doesn't sound like what you have.



Mint condition would be at least as valuable as excellent (but, as Dan H points out, nowhere near retail - probably somewhere around the high end of excellent). You could have a photo appraisal done for about $50 - Gruhn Guitars' website tells how, and I think Mandolin Brothers will do it also. Both are highly reputable dealers.

Answer 2

Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst

Answer 3

New ones are going for around 3000 to 3500 in the US.



Your 2001 isn't anything more special than a 2012 or 2013 version.



The fact that it hasn't been played is in your favor, especially if it's completely undamaged, but that doesn't necessarily make it more valuable. However, just because it's unplayed doesn't mean it's in great condition. It depends on humidity and where exactly it's been stored all these years.



Guitar values are difficult to assess, especially for something that has hundreds of similar condition guitars out there.



I would put it on Craig's list for 1900 OBO and see what kind of offers you do get. Only the buyer can tell you what it's worth to him and only you can determine if that's enough for you to part with it.



The reality is that there are hundreds available every day and no one's going to pay new retail price or more for a 12 year old guitar. This is not an investment.



They have to be 40 or more years old or have been played by someone famous to fetch big prices.