Vintage Epiphone Wilshire - USA 1965

Here is a 1965 Epiphone Wilshire in sunburst, a lightweight and highly responsive solidbody electric that has become a cult favourite for its punchy midrange, fast feel, and distinctive vintage voice. With its classic double-cutaway design and naturally worn aesthetic, this example captures the raw charm and character that made mid-’60s Epiphones such sought-after player’s instruments.

This example retains its original mini-humbuckers, delivering a warm yet articulate tonal profile with tight low end, focused mids, and a clear, slightly edgy top end. It excels in blues, garage rock, and early rock tones, offering excellent note separation and dynamic response whether played clean or driven.

Dating is supported by the original potentiometers, which are stamped to the first week of 1965 (1346501), confirming its early production status. The guitar features a comfortable medium C neck profile that feels fast and familiar in the hand, and it has been refretted at some stage, now playing smoothly with excellent responsiveness across the fingerboard.

A factory Maestro Vibrola adds expressive vibrato capability and enhances its vintage character. The guitar presents as a well-preserved player’s instrument, with honest wear consistent with age and a missing pickguard screw noted, but otherwise complete and structurally sound.

Specifications:

Year:1965
Country: USA
Model: Epiphone Wilshire
Finish: Sunburst
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany, Medium C Profile
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Scale: 24.75”
Pickups: Original Mini-Humbuckers
Bridge: Tune-o-Matic
Case: Non-original Gibson soft case