By C.

Here at IVG, we’re always looking to buy nice examples of vintage golden era guitars. And every so often, they fly out the door almost as soon as they come in! This one in particular didn’t last more than 2 days before it was off to a new home. But thankfully we got to hangout with just long enough for us to snap some lovely photos. And while it sold right away, we can’t help but give the guitar the spotlight it deserves. We’re pleased to present this 1959 Epiphone Coronet.

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The Coronet is a significant model for Epiphone in general, marking the company’s foray into the solid-body electric guitar market during a pivotal time in music history. This early model, with its distinctive design and sound, has garnered a loyal following and remains a highly regarded instrument among collectors and musicians alike.

A bit of historical context for our readers. Epiphone, originally founded in 1873 as a family business making string instruments, was acquired by Gibson in 1957. The acquisition aimed to offer a more affordable line of instruments under the esteemed Gibson banner, expanding the market reach. The Coronet was one of the first models introduced post-acquisition, symbolizing the new direction and ambition of the brand.

The 1958-59 Coronet is characterized by its minimalist yet distinctive design. These original models featured a double cutaway mahogany body, resembling a symmetrical Telecaster shape. Wearing its original sleek black nitrocellulose lacquer finish, this design was a departure from the more complex, multi-piece archtop bodies that Epiphone was previously known for. This design contributed to its sturdy and and comfortable playability, which appealed to a broad range of musicians.

One of the most notable aspects of the Coronet is its single “New Yorker” pickup, known for its raw and powerful sound. Positioned in the bridge, the pickup gave the Coronet a unique and biting tone that could cut through mixes, making it ideal for the burgeoning rock and roll genre of the late 1950s. The simplicity of having a single pickup made the guitar more affordable and easier to produce, aligning with Epiphone’s strategy of offering budget-friendly instruments without compromising on quality.

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The Coronet’s hardware was straightforward yet effective. It featured a wrap-around tailpiece, which not only helped with sustain but also made string changes simpler. The neck was made of mahogany, with a rosewood fingerboard that provided a smooth playing experience. The headstock bore the Epiphone logo and often included a stylized emblem, giving it a unique and recognizable appearance.

Upon its release, the 1958 Epiphone Coronet was somewhat well-received for its affordability and quality, making it accessible to a wider range of musicians. It played a significant role in the democratization of electric guitar ownership, providing a solid, professional-grade instrument at a price point that many could afford. This was particularly important during a time when electric guitar music was exploding in popularity, driven by rock and roll bands and the burgeoning youth culture.

The Coronet’s design was certainly augmented over the years, and this iteration survived only from 1958-1959. Its simplicity and effectiveness set a standard for what budget-friendly electric guitars could be, proving that affordability did not have to mean a sacrifice in quality or performance. Over the decades, the Coronet has seen various reissues and revivals, each paying homage to the original model’s ethos while sometimes incorporating modern enhancements.

Today, the ’58 and ’59 Coronets are highly sought after by collectors and vintage guitar enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its distinctive sound and playability, makes it a prized possession. Original models in good condition are rather rare and can fetch high prices on the vintage market, reflecting their widespread appeal.

The Coronet has also experienced a resurgence in popularity among contemporary players. Many appreciate its vintage aesthetic and straightforward design, which stands in contrast to the more complex and often heavily modded guitars seen today. The New Yorker pickup continues to be celebrated for its unique sound, capable of handling genres from blues and rock to punk and indie.

This 1959 Epiphone Coronet is a beloved model, showcasing the ingenuity and forward-thinking approach of Epiphone during a transformative period in music history. Its design, affordability, and sound quality made it a significant model in the electric guitar market. Decades later, Coronets like this ’59 remain coveted instruments for many players and collectors, and are celebrated for their historical importance and continued relevance in the world of modern music. This one is off to its very happy new owner, but you never know when another might come in..

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