Gibson partners with Keith Richards for limited edition 1960 ES-355 guitars

Gibson Custom has partnered with Keith Richards, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of The Rolling Stones, to launch two limited edition guitars: the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355 Collector’s Edition, Signed Guitar and Label, and the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355, Signed Label. These handcrafted replicas were developed in collaboration with Richards himself, giving fans and collectors a rare chance to own a piece of rock history.

Only 50 Collector’s Edition guitars are available worldwide, signed by Richards on the f-hole label and the back of the headstock. An additional 100 Signed Label models are available, signed on the f-hole label, through Gibson.com, Gibson Garage locations, and authorized Gibson Custom dealers.

Keith Richards’ black 1960 Gibson ES-355 has defined The Rolling Stones’ sound since 1969, appearing on albums like Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. These new models are meticulously crafted using 3D scanning, period-correct materials, and Murphy Lab hand-aging to replicate every detail, from tone to wear.

Handcrafted replicas with authentic features

Both guitars feature a multi-ply maple/poplar/maple body with red spruce bracing and a maple centerblock, designed for sustain and reduced feedback. The mahogany neck, shaped from 3D scans of Richards’ original, measures approximately .801” at the first fret and 1.625” at the nut. The ebony fingerboard includes mother-of-pearl block inlays and Medium Wide fretwire, reflecting the original instrument.

The hardware includes a Bigsby® B7 vibrato tailpiece, Grover® Rotomatic® tuners with Milk Bottle buttons, and all metal and plastic components hand-aged by Murphy Lab artisans. Custombucker pickups with Alnico 5 magnets, CTS® 500k audio taper pots, and paper-in-oil capacitors deliver the signature tone of Richards’ ES-355.

Each guitar comes with a Gibson Protector series case, a certificate of authenticity, and a replica of Keith Richards’ strap. The Collector’s Edition is strictly limited to 50 units, while 100 Signed Label guitars are also available globally.

A tribute to a rock ’n’ roll legend

Keith Richards, born in 1943 in Dartford, England, has influenced modern rock with his raw riffs, blues-inspired style, and signature open tunings. Known as the “Human Riff,” Richards has co-written some of rock’s biggest hits, including Satisfaction, Jumpin’ Jack Flash, and Gimme Shelter.

Richards remains active with The Rolling Stones, performing worldwide and inspiring generations of musicians. The Keith Richards 1960 ES-355 Collector’s Edition and Signed Label guitars allow fans to celebrate his legacy with authentic, handcrafted instruments that mirror the look, feel, and sound of his originals.