For Sale: 1997 Gibson Thunderbird IV – Ebony Black w/ OHSC

Up for sale is a 1997 Gibson Thunderbird IV in Ebony Black, complete with its original Gibson hard-shell case.

This is a very cool late-’90s Gibson Thunderbird with the unmistakable look, feel, and sound that has made these basses so iconic for decades. With its offset reverse body shape, original Thunderbird humbuckers, and ebony fingerboard, this one delivers the deep, punchy low end and aggressive growl players expect from a good Thunderbird. It is also a nice lighter-weight example for the model, which makes it especially appealing.

Condition

This bass is in very good condition and I would rate it a solid 8/10. It shows light surface scratches, small dings throughout, and finish checking along the seams where the fingerboard meets the neck. This type of checking is very common on Thunderbird basses and is only in the finish. Please review all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.

There are no cracks, breaks, repairs, or structural issues. The neck is straight, the original frets are in excellent condition with no wear, and the bass plays cleanly up and down the neck with no buzzing or dead spots. It has also been recently professionally set up and is ready to go.

The original Gibson hard-shell case is included.

Specifications

Year: 1997
Serial Number: 93297717
Weight: 8 lbs 14 oz
Nut Width: 1.52"
Neck Depth: .81" at the 1st fret, .93" at the 12th fret
Neck Profile: Thin
Body: Mahogany
Finish: Ebony Black
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Ebony
Pickups: Original Gibson Thunderbird Humbuckers
Controls: Volume, Volume, Master Tone
Case: Original Gibson Hard-Shell Case

Electronics & Features

One of the standout features of this bass is the combination of the ebony fingerboard and original Thunderbird humbuckers. The ebony board gives the bass a smooth, fast feel with a slightly more immediate and articulate response, while the original pickups deliver the huge low end, punch, and grind that make Thunderbirds so distinctive.

These basses remain especially popular with players who want something with real visual attitude and a voice that stands apart from more conventional bass designs. This one keeps all of that classic Thunderbird appeal intact.

Tone & Feel

This bass has the kind of big, authoritative sound you want from a Thunderbird. It delivers strong lows, pronounced mids, and the kind of growl that works beautifully for rock, punk, hard rock, and heavier styles, while still having enough clarity to stay defined in a mix.

The thin neck profile helps keep it comfortable and easy to play, and at 8 lbs 14 oz, it is a nicely balanced example for a Thunderbird. It feels substantial without being overly heavy.

Transparency & Photos

As with all Guitar Chimp listings, detailed photos are provided of the actual instrument. At the end of the photo set, you’ll find close-up images taken under direct lighting to highlight any wear. We don’t just describe the condition — we show it in detail so there are no surprises. Many customers tell us our guitars often 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 for high-quality, player-ready instruments. Every guitar is thoroughly inspected and professionally set up by our in-house luthier.

We are experts at shipping and have safely shipped thousands of guitars all over the world. Every instrument is professionally packed, fully insured, and shipped with signature confirmation, so there is no risk to you as the buyer. We know how to pack and ship guitars so it arrives safely.

📞 Call/Text: (801) 317-9013
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This 1997 Gibson Thunderbird IV in Ebony Black is a great-playing, all-original example with classic Thunderbird tone, an ebony board, and its original hard-shell case.

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