WIW 1969 Gibson es 335 PICS

[70charger_boy]

Ok
So, I received a trade offer.  My '66 Tempest for a 1969 Gibson es 335.  I'm thinking the value is around $3,500??  I know that the value of these are soaring, but how can I tell if this guitar is real and is it a good deal?

[69bronzeT5]

I dont know how to tell if its real or not. But if it is real...its worth about 3500

[JimShine]

It looks like it has some stories. I wouldn't do a deal until a knowledgeable person can evaluate it for you. To bring top dollar, it has to be very original. This one appears to have changed hardware, and an added control (which really hurts). The top looks like it may be oversprayed as well, but its hard to be sure from the pics. Each thing I listed knocks the value and desireability down significantly. There are other possible items unseen that can really hurt, like a headstock repair or changed pickups . I would be very careful before dealing on this one.

[70charger_boy]

Thanks alot, JimShine.

You replied just in time, because this guy is hounding me with emails.  I will just tell the guy No.