Vintage Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbird IV Bass - USA 1976

Debuting in 1963, the Gibson Thunderbird entered the electric bass scene, which had long been dominated by Fender since the introduction of the Precision Bass a dozen years prior.

Raymond H. Dietrich, a prominent U.S. auto designer known for his work with Chrysler, Lincoln, and Checker, played a pivotal role in crafting the Thunderbird. This bass, closely associated with the Firebird guitar, shares similarities in its design, construction, and nomenclature.

In 1976, a bicentennial edition of the Thunderbird IV made its return. This reissue faithfully replicated the original body shape and neck-through construction. Diverging from its predecessors, the bicentennial edition introduced the innovative "three-point" bridge and a distinctive red, white, and blue Thunderbird logo. Available finishes for this edition included tobacco burst, ebony, white, or a natural finish. Following the bicentennial celebration, the Thunderbird remained in production as a regular model until 1979, when it was once again discontinued.

This stunning bass was bought by Hilton Fatt of 'The Cockroaches', 'Johnny Grays Rockinitis'  and 'The Dynaflows' in the 70s from The Guitar Centre, Van Ness, San Francisco. This T'bird was played live and on recordings up until the current owner purchased it in 2011 from Wild Horse Guitars in Surry Hills. The special thing about this particular instrument is its documented history - it comes with a signed letter from Hilton describing the guitars story, Gibson tags and catalogues, band poster printoffs, invoices for playing at Bluesfest, a pad with chord charts for dozens of tunes, a customised pickguard and more.

This Thunderbird is completely stock with no modifications and presents in wonderful condition, the finish is very clean with very few marks to speak of. The frets show some wear but still have plenty of life left in them. There is a screw hole on the back at the heel of the neck where a strap pin once would have been.

This Gibson Thunderbird bass has an unmistakable and powerful sound. Its dual humbucking pickups deliver a deep and punchy tone, creating a robust and resonant sound. The Thunderbird's unique body design and neck-through construction contribute to its exceptional sustain and clarity, allowing each note to cut through with precision. Whether thumping out groovy basslines or laying down thunderous low-end frequencies, this Gibson Thunderbird is a versatile and iconic instrument, capable of producing a rich and dynamic sonic palette.

Comes in it original Gibson HSC with tonnes of candy.

Specs:

Finish Details: Original Sunburst

Body Material: Mahogany

Body Details: Mahogany laminate neck thru-design with mahogany wings.

Neck Material: Mahogany

Fingerboard Material: Rosewood

Neck Profile: C shape

Fingerboard Radius: 10.00"

Nut Width: 1-1/2"

Scale Length: 34"

Neck Details: Laminate mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard. Neck-thru design.

Electronics: Original electronics. Two pickups, volume controls for each pickup, master tone.

Hardware: Original hardware

Case Details: Original hardshell case