Gibson Explorer Centennial Ltd. All Gold 1994

A brand like Gibson certainly wouldn’t let its centennial pass unnoticed. For its 100th anniversary in 1994, the company knew exactly what to do: release a limited number of very special guitars. This Explorer is packed with beautiful details, and there is always something new to discover.

In 1994, Gibson released a limited-edition guitar every month. These exceptional instruments were produced in a very small run of just 100 pieces and numbered from 1894 to 1994 in honor of Gibson’s hundredth anniversary. Among their distinctive features are a mother-of-pearl inlay with a centennial banner on the fingerboard and a 22-karat gold-leaf Orville Gibson coin on the back of the headstock.

The luxurious details continue with volume and tone knobs featuring 22-karat gold leaf and diamond accents, along with the centennial logo; a diamond-set sterling silver centennial number on the tailpiece; and even a diamond set into the “i” of the Gibson logo on the headstock. Beyond these remarkable details, this is also an exceptionally well-built Explorer.

The Gibson Explorer is one of the most iconic guitar shapes ever conceived, although that was not immediately apparent when it was introduced in 1958. Its futuristic body shape was so radical at the time that the public initially struggled to embrace it, and production was soon discontinued after just 19 examples. It was not until the 1970s and 1980s, when rock and metal began to rise in popularity, that a new generation of guitarists rediscovered the Explorer as the ultimate statement instrument.

The two humbuckers give this Explorer its sharp character: the neck pickup delivers a warm, full tone, while the bridge pickup offers a raw, powerful output that is ideal for everything from heavy riffs to explosive solos. The mahogany body and neck provide the warmth and sustain Gibson is known for, while the C-shaped neck profile feels comfortable and familiar.

This 1994 Explorer shows signs of use, particularly on the hardware. The finish, however, remains in good condition, with only light playwear and a few very small dings. This makes it an appealing guitar for enthusiasts, whether as a collectible or simply to be played.

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.