Gibson Dove Cherry Sunburst 1976

This 1976 Gibson Dove with a Cherry Sunburst finish is an interesting find for vintage guitar enthusiasts. It is a true example of Gibson’s Norlin era, and features many of the characteristics typically associated with the instruments built during this period.

By the 1970s, Gibson had fully transitioned to Square Shoulder models, with the Dove featuring the longer 648 mm scale length. Its solid maple back and sides, paired with a Sitka spruce top, produce rich, resonant tones with excellent projection. The top is supported by double X-bracing and a large maple bridge plate, a construction approach Gibson adopted to maximize the guitar’s stability and minimize warranty claims.

The guitar makes a striking impression with its glossy nitrocellulose Cherry Sunburst finish, complemented by the distinctive engraved pickguard, which adds a touch of elegance. The three-piece maple neck features a comfortable C profile and an ebony fingerboard, offering smooth playability and effortless navigation across the neck. The original Grover tuners still keep the guitar reliably in tune.

The playwear shows that this Dove has seen plenty of playing over the years, and thanks to its LR Baggs Anthem pickup, it is a true stage guitar with plenty of character. The top has a crack between the end of the fingerboard and the soundhole, repaired with a cleat. The center seam on the back, behind the bridge, has also been repaired with a cleat. In addition, a crack in the bridge has been glued, and a Plate Mate has been installed on the bridge plate. The bridge saddle is also getting rather low, although the guitar remains in excellent playing condition.

The character of a vintage guitar is difficult to replicate in a modern instrument, and this 1976 Dove is a guitar with which you can tell some truly compelling stories on stage.

This guitar has been carefully inspected for condition and playability, then set up to our Gold Standard by a luthier. We make sure it arrives in your hands exactly as it should: sounding its best, playing effortlessly and ready to be enjoyed from the very first note.