Gibson Howard Roberts Custom 'Sunburst' Circa 1974

The Gibson Howard Roberts Custom is a distinctive hollowbody designed for one of the most versatile session guitarists of the 20th century. Built in the early-to-mid 1970s, this model carries the tonal signature of Howard Roberts himself — warm, expressive, and capable of everything from smoky jazz lines to expressive pop and TV session work. Its unique oval soundhole and single-pickup layout give it an instantly recognisable voice, blending the airiness of an acoustic chamber with the focus and punch of an electric archtop.

This 1974-era example features the Custom model’s rosewood fingerboard, chrome hardware, and elegant block inlays, paired with a comfortable 25.5" scale length for smooth, articulate phrasing. The trapeze tailpiece helps deliver a lively acoustic resonance, while the hollowbody construction offers remarkable warmth and responsiveness. With its rare design, unmistakable look, and rich tonal palette, the Howard Roberts Custom remains one of Gibson’s most individualistic and musical artist models.

This killer 70's era Gibson is in great condition, and is currently setup with half-round strings that make it a truly versatile instrument. There's plenty of lacquer crazing, light dings and playwear as you'd expect, and a small patch of missing lacquer on the neck heel by the strap button, but it's all original and plays beautifully! Includes non-original case.

Specs

• Body Style Single Cutaway Hollowbody

• Year Circa 1974 (Produced 1973–1981)

• Top / Back / Sides Maple Hollowbody Construction

• Scale Length 25.5"

• Fingerboard Rosewood

• Hardware Chrome

• Inlays Block

• Electronics Single Pickup (non-original shown)

• Controls 3 Knobs

• Tailpiece Trapeze

• Soundhole Oval