02/09/2026
Update: SOLD
1976 Gibson Explorer – 100% Original & Untouched
We are extremely pleased to have found this exceptional 1976 Gibson Explorer from the first year the Explorer returned to regular production after the original late-1950s run.
Finding a 1976 Explorer today is one thing. Finding one that has survived for 50 years in 100% all-original and completely untouched condition is something entirely different.
Over the decades, many of these guitars have had pickups, electronics, tuners, hardware or other components replaced or modified, making truly original and untouched examples increasingly difficult to find.
This particular guitar is exactly that: 100% original throughout, completely untouched and exceptionally well preserved. It retains all of its original components exactly as it left Gibson — no changed parts, no modifications and no alterations.
In 1976, Gibson brought the Explorer back into regular production, marking the beginning of the model’s modern era. The 1976 Explorer was primarily constructed from mahogany and typically featured a natural finish, rosewood fingerboard, two humbuckers and gold-plated hardware.
Approximately 1,800 Explorers were shipped in 1976, making these first-year examples an important chapter in Gibson history. The Explorer would go on to become one of the defining guitar designs of rock, with players such as The Edgehelping make the 1976 Explorer particularly iconic.
For us, what makes this example truly special is simple:
1976. First year of the Explorer’s return. 100% all-original. Completely untouched.