For Sale: 1987 Gibson Les Paul Custom – Alpine White (Vintage Yellowed) w/ OHSC | Tim Shaw Pickups

Up for sale is a 1987 Gibson Les Paul Custom in Alpine White, complete with its original Gibson chainsaw hard-shell case.

This is a killer late-’80s Les Paul Custom with tons of vintage character and the kind of natural wear that players chase. The original Alpine White finish has aged and yellowed beautifully over time, giving it that unmistakable broken-in look reminiscent of well-loved Customs from the era. Combined with the gold hardware and ebony fingerboard, it has a classic, aggressive aesthetic that immediately brings to mind that worn-in Randy Rhoads vibe.

One of the standout features here is the original set of Tim Shaw humbuckers—1987 being the final year of their production. These late examples are known for having patent number stamps only (no ink stamp), making them especially desirable to collectors and tone purists.

Condition

This guitar is in very good condition (7.5/10) with honest vintage wear throughout.

It shows scratches, dings, finish checking across the body, tarnish to the gold hardware, wear on the back, and noticeable wear around the rear strap button area. The finish has naturally yellowed over time, adding to the overall vintage appeal.

With the exception of a replaced nut and toggle switch, the guitar is 100% original, including the pickups and hardware.

There are no cracks, breaks, or structural issues. The neck is straight, the frets are in good shape, and the guitar plays cleanly up and down the neck with no buzzing or dead spots. It has also been professionally set up and is ready to go.

The original Gibson chainsaw case is included.

Specifications

• Model: Gibson Les Paul Custom
• Year: 1987
• Serial Number: 82317561
• Finish: Alpine White (Naturally Aged/Yellowed)
• Body: Mahogany with Maple Top
• Neck: Mahogany, Thin Profile
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Radius: 12"
• Scale Length: 24.75"
• Nut Width: 1.74"
• Neck Depth: .82" (1st fret), .96" (12th fret)
• Frets: 22 Medium Jumbo
• Pickups: Original Tim Shaw Humbuckers (Patent # stamped, no ink stamp – final year)
• Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Toggle
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic
• Tailpiece: Stopbar
• Hardware: Gold
• Weight: 10 lbs 4 oz
• Case: Original Gibson Chainsaw Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

The original Tim Shaw humbuckers are a major highlight of this guitar. Known for their clarity, balance, and vintage-leaning voicing, these pickups are widely regarded as some of the best Gibson produced in the Norlin era.

Being from the final year of production, this set features the later patent number stamp format without the earlier ink stamp, making them a particularly interesting and collectible variant.

Tone & Feel

This Les Paul Custom delivers everything you’d want from a well-played vintage example—thick, sustaining tone with strong midrange punch and excellent articulation.

The ebony fingerboard adds snap and clarity, while the thin neck profile makes it fast and comfortable to play. At 10 lbs 4 oz, it has that solid, substantial feel that many players associate with great late-’70s and ’80s Les Paul Customs.

This one feels broken-in in the best possible way.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the exact instrument — no stock images.

At the end of the photo set, you’ll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to clearly show the finish checking, wear, and all cosmetic details. We believe in not only describing condition, but showing it in detail so there are no surprises.

Many of our customers tell us their guitars arrive in better condition than expected.

Why Buy From Guitar Chimp?

With over 18 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is trusted by players and collectors worldwide.

Every instrument is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier

Honest, accurate condition descriptions

Real photos of the actual instrument — never stock images

We have shipped thousands of guitars all over the world

All instruments are professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped with signature confirmation for your protection

Buy with confidence knowing your instrument will arrive safely and exactly as described.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013
💬 Message anytime — we’re always happy to help!

This 1987 Gibson Les Paul Custom in Alpine White is a true player’s vintage piece with the right look, the right wear, and the highly desirable final-year Tim Shaw pickups.

🎸 Jerald – Guitar Chimp
Providing The Finest Guitars, Basses & Amps Since 2006