1952 Gibson Les Paul - original gold top finish with Autograph

Description

1952 Gibson Les Paul - original gold top finish with Autograph.
We've owned this beautiful guitar from the mid-80s to the present (Purchased from Nadine's Guitar on Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA). The guitar since then has an incredible provenance/history and its own "greatest hits", first used on a Rick James "Reflections" album cover. That image appears on the back cover and has since been reused numerous times for "Greatest Hits" packages and publicity photos.
The next major "hit" for the '52 came in 1991 when Capitol Records issued aLes Paul/Mary Ford 4 CD Box Set. To help promote the release, Capitol invited Mr. Les Paul to the company (the world-famous circular building on Vine Street) for a Meet 'n Greet for employees only and had a chance for him to autograph the box set. I had the opportunity to bring in the guitar and have him sign it personally.
He was thrilled at the condition, remarked how nice it was and played a little tune on it (it was a little out of tune, unfortunately). Here's the best part of that signing, he autographed the original (California Girl) leather carrying case. It's truly the coolest thing around! I believe this unique personalized carrying case is probably the only one of it's kind.
The most recent good fortune came in 2005. Colby College Museum of Art (Maine) had an exhibition "The Player's Art" from May 7 - July 17, 2005.
The museum curator saw a photo of the guitar and case and wanted it in his show. The show featured over 100 vintage, rare and handmade guitars. This guitar was one of the main highlights of that show. I also have posters and photos from that exhibition.
The guitar and case also come with a custom-made A&S black combination lock shipping case, purchased thru Guitar Center/Hollywood, CA. The inside velvet lining is a rich royal blue and fitted to the exact contour of the case. This case measures approx. 18" x 45" x 9" and weighs approx 50 lbs with guitar and case inside.
I have a "Reflections" album cover press proof, matted black and white photos of Les Paul signing and holding the guitar, and posters/mailers (photos of the guitar also) from the museum show.
A 4 x 5 transparency professional product shot of the guitar and case as well.
The guitar has always been stored in a smoke and pet-free environment.
I'm not a musician and have kept the guitar this entire time for the sheer aesthetics and history of this amazing guitar. It hasn't been played except by Les Paul (as mentioned before) and by Rick James while on set. I don't play guitar. It hasn't been played regularly since I've owned it. This piece of history deserves the best home or showplace.
Guitar has never Been modified from how it was purchased.
Available for local pick-up. If shipped it will be shipped with extreme care. No returns. Please let me know if you have questions.