Paying top dollar

for your diamonds since 1980

Historic Les Paul Prototype For Sale

Posted on February 10th, 2015 by Joe G

Who are some of your favorite musicians? Many recognizable names, from Hendrix to McCartney to Zappa, would not have achieved their fame without a man by the name of Les Paul, according to Arlan Ettinger, the president of auction house Guernsey’s on New York’s Upper East Side.

Guernsey’s is auctioning off a prototype, known as Black Beauty, that inspired the guitars manufactured beginning in the 1950’s by Gibson Guitars with Paul’s specifications, one of which was buried with Bob Marley. The auction will take place February 19; there is no current presale estimate, but Ettinger says it could sell for over $2 million.

Black Beauty was actually the second prototype (the first was deemed unplayable by Paul himself), with a mahogany neck, ebony fret board, a Tune-O-Matic bridge and a jack for a microphone. Without Black Beauty, no other Les Paul guitars could exist in the way they are known today. Paul played more than 150 shows with this exact guitar between 1954 and 1976.

Courtesy of The New York Times

← Back

Customer Testimonial

Had a Great Experience

I have dealt in coins and metals since the 80s. Had dealings with many dealers. Got scammed by a few. Chicago Gold is the only one I would recommend to my family or friends. Have your valuables appraised by them before you sell.


Date: 05/12/2022 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

Awesome place!

What a super knowledgeable gemologist. After all that experience also they are soooo willing to help and answer all the questions I had. Excellent experience. They went above and beyond for me. Highly recommended. Super trustworthy.


Date: 01/20/2022 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

I'll be back

Cashed in some silver coins and received a very fair exchange. Joe and Chris, were very friendly, and comfortable to deal with. Came back with some jewelry, and received a rough appraisal...again no pressure.


Date: 10/17/2023 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

I would do business with them again

Good people who are honest, open and friendly. I'm glad I found them and not too far from my area.


Date: 01/02/2024 • 5 / 5 stars ★★★★★

How to Reach Us?

Get Directions

Contact Us

Get the most for your valuables.

1236 W. Devon Avenue
Chicago, IL 60660

Phone: 773-338-7787 Email: chgogoldgallery@aol.com

Hours: Mon- Fri: 10:15am-6pm, & Sat: 10:15am-5:00pm

Especially Wanted

  • Gold & Silver Coins
  • Bullion Gold, Silver, & Platinum
  • Scrap & Old Gold
  • Sterling Silverware
  • Dental Gold
  • Coins & Coin Collections
  • Franklin Mint
  • Collectibles
  • Rare Coins
  • Antique & Modern Jewelry
  • Diamonds
  • Watches - Rolex, Patek Philippe
  • Broken Jewelry
  • Tiffany & Company - Cartier
  • Vintage & Modern Guitars