Deciding Whether to Keep or Sell Your Old Les Paul Limited Edition Guitar

A guitarist's prized possession is often a Les Paul guitar. If you have an old limited edition Les Paul, deciding whether to keep or sell it can be a tough choice. This article will guide you through the process of making an informed decision.

Are You a Guitars Player?

When it comes to a Les Paul, the best place to start is by asking yourself if you are a guitarist. If so, what is your dream guitar? If the dream guitar is a Les Paul, then you should hold onto your current guitar and play it. If not, consider trading it in for your dream guitar. If the trade-in is enough, prioritize acquiring your ideal instrument. However, if it's not, continue to enjoy your Les Paul and wait until you can afford your dream guitar.

For Non-players: Sell or Appraise?

If you are not a guitarist, your next step is to get an appraisal or consider selling the guitar. Unless it is a 1958-60 sunburst Les Paul, it is unlikely to be worth the sky-high prices. The resale value of a 1970s Les Paul limited edition is unlikely to appreciate significantly over time. In fact, checking eBay prices for these guitars and adjusting for inflation shows that their value is not increasing substantially. Therefore, holding onto it is a disservice to someone who might actually enjoy playing it.

Why I Own the Guitars I Own

The guitars I own are the ones I play. I don't own guitars that don't align with my tastes and preferences. Some of my guitars are vintage, and some may never become worth significantly more than what I paid for them. However, I hold onto them because I love them. Here are some questions to ask yourself about your Les Paul LE:

Do you love your Les Paul LE? Think about the sound, the feel, and the joy it brings to you when you play it. Does it sound great? Does it feel great in your hands? Does it bring a smile to your face when you play it?

Based on how you answer these questions, you will know whether to hold onto or sell your guitar.

What to Do If You Decide to Keep Your Guitar

If you decide to keep your Les Paul guitar, ensure that it is well-maintained. Here are some steps to follow:

Get it Appraised: Regardless of whether you own it now or plan to sell it later, getting a professional appraisal can help you understand its current value. This is crucial for both keeping the guitar and selling it. Consider Its Age: The term "old" can vary, but Les Paul guitars from the 1970s date back much longer to 1952. The limited edition (LE) guitars were more like "re-issues" from the 1970s. Therefore, knowing the specific model and its historic value is important. Evaluate the Condition: The condition of the guitar, including its playability and sound, is a key factor in its value. A good appraisal should evaluate these aspects. Take Care of It: Make sure that the guitar is well-maintained and in good condition. Regular cleaning, inspecting, and servicing will ensure its longevity.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to keep or sell your old Les Paul limited edition guitar can be a tough choice. If you are a player, consider what makes the guitar special to you. If you are not, have it appraised and consider selling it. Keeping it may deprive someone else of the joy of playing it. However, if you love the guitar and play it, it might be worth keeping.