Theodore Gibson Archive Collection

Introducing the “Theodore” drafted in 1957 by Ted McCarty and brought to life in 2022 by the Gibson Lab.

NASHVILLE, TN (March 18, 2022) Gibson’s legendary former president Theodore “Ted” McCarty helped develop some of the most iconic electric guitars ever created such as the Les Paul, ES-335, Flying V, Explorer, SG, and Firebird. On March 18, 1957 (3/18/1957), at the height of his creative output, Ted detailed and signed a drawing for a new solid body instrument concept which was never produced, until now. Today, on March 18, 2022, 65 years from the date Ted sketched the guitar (pictured above), Gibson Custom Shop is proud to introduce the “Theodore” as the first-ever Gibson Archive Collection release.

Ted’s influential drawing represented a turning point in Gibson guitar history and as a result, the new Theodore is now a testament to his vision and prolific output of influential guitar designs. Theodore’s lightweight and balanced construction is comfortable and with powerful P-90 pickups, the guitar delivers effortless sustain, alongside a rich diversity of tones. For this Gibson Archive Collection release only 318 (aka March 18), total Theodore instruments will be made across three different colors, Natural, Cherry, and Ebony. Theodore features an alder body, scimitar headstock, double Florentine cutaways, and a walnut center strip. Every Theodore will include a deluxe package with a Historic-style brown hardshell exterior and pink interior guitar case, as well as a leather strap, a print of Ted McCarty’s original signed drawing of the guitar, a 1957-style catalog print, and a Certificate of Authenticity booklet.

From then, till now, Gibson’s legendary guitars are handcrafted and American-made to this day.