Gibson ES-225TDN (1956)

Gibson’s ES-225 stands as one of the earliest “thinline” hollowbody models to hit the scene in the 1950s. Predating the ES-330 by four years, it offered players a slimmer, more comfortable electric design that retained the open, resonant character that made larger models like the ES-175 so beloved.

This ES-225TDN hails from 1956, and it's been remarkably well preserved over its 65+ years. It sports a classic mid-to-late ’50s Full C neck profile—round, comfortable, and effortlessly playable—complemented by a superb refret with medium-jumbo wire that enhances its feel and response.
Acoustically, it’s lively, loud, and articulate, with the kind of clarity that reminds you why these early thinline Gibsons are so special. The original long trapeze wraparound bridge plays a big role in that acoustic response, all while increasing its attack and fundamental presence. All of this energy makes the original P90 pickups even more dynamic and touch-sensitive. Warm and smooth for jazz, but with enough clarity and power to excel with some gained up tones (it's a sleeper Americana or Folk Rock guitar).

To top it off, this rare dual-pickup ES-225 comes housed in its original Lifton hardshell case, an uncommon pairing given how often these cases were swapped with ES-335s over the years. It’s a treat to find such a complete, well-kept example—both guitar and case beautifully preserved.

The tuners are early replacements- a set of double line Klusons replaced what would've been single line Klusons. No functional difference, really, but worth nothing. There's a very minute amount of finish touchup just below the heel cap, likely done in an effort to smooth out a light re-gluing of binding adjacent to said heel cap. Otherwise, it's about as clean as you'll find one these days.