1953 Gibson Les Paul Custom Black

I'm not quite sure what to make of this 53/54 Les Paul Custom. It is all original and is likely one of the first ones to leave the factory. There is no serial number on the headstock but there is a number that looks factory on the neck heel. That number doesn't match the format of any Gibson serial number so it could be an identifier put there by the owner. If someone has seen this on another LP Custom, I'd like to hear about it. Condition is very good (8.5/10). It is all original with no issues other than minor wear. Original "fretless wonder" frets in very good shape. Note the "speed knobs"-only the early ones had these. Also, notice the low profile ABR-1-it has not collapsed like so many of these. The saddles are newer. It plays beautifully but those frets aren't for everybody. Neck profile is huge. Alnico neck pickup is smooth and mellow. Bridge P90 is aggressive and bright. Case is original black with yellow interior.