The Thunderbird IV debuted in 1963 with the original Firebird guitar series. The most highly respected of all Gibson basses, the Thunderbird was reissued in 1987 with original reverse body styling and new, special-design pickups. This example dates from 1990.

Notable players of original Thunderbirds included Martin Turner of Wishbone Ash, and the late Allen Woody of the Allman Brothers Band and Gov’t Mule.

Unlike other Gibson basses, which were generally short-scale instruments (a big factor in their lack of commercial success), the Thunderbird is a full-scale bass, with tone to match. Neck-through construction adds to the resonance and tone of the instrument. Features include;

  • 9-ply mahogany and walnut neck
  • Through-body neck
  • Mahogany wings
  • Ebony fretboard
  • Black chrome hardware
  • 34" scale
  • Black top-hat knobs with inserts
  • Schaller tuners
  • 3-way adjustable tailpiece
  • Hardshell case

Sold to Thaddeus in New Zealand