Book excerpt: (Book). The Gibson Les Paul Standard 1958-1960 is one of the greatest designs to emerge from Gibson. At first, it was little appreciated and quickly discontinued. However, the UK blues explosion of the 1960s changed everything and these guitars would begin to shape the music for generations to come. The USA quickly picked up this new direction and players such as Mike Bloomfield and Duane Allman then used the Bursts to great effect. Demand for the guitar began in earnest in the 1970s and they now fetch astronomical prices. The Gibson Custom Shop is working diligently on many aspects of their historic Les Pauls bringing them as close to the originals as possible. Not only did the players make this the most collectable guitar in the vintage market but collectors and weekend players played a huge role in its cimb to the top. Visually, it is probably one of the most beautiful solid body guitars ever made.