RARE Gibson Les Paul Classic Plus 2017 - Heritage Cherry Sunburst

Some Les Pauls are great guitars… and then once in a while one shows up that clearly came off the line on a very good day. This 2017 Les Paul Classic Plus in Heritage Cherry Sunburst is exactly that kind of instrument.

At first glance the top immediately tells the story. The flame on this one is deep, three-dimensional, and incredibly lively, shifting dramatically depending on the light. Gibson labeled these as “Plus” tops for a reason — the figuring is far beyond what you normally see on a standard Classic from this era. The Heritage Cherry Sunburst really brings that maple to life, fading from a glowing amber center into a rich red edge that feels straight out of the golden era of Les Paul finishes.

What makes this guitar especially interesting is its background. Gibson didn’t officially release a Classic Plus model for 2017, but this particular run was produced as a special American Musical Supply exclusive. The build mirrors the 2017 Les Paul Classic HP platform, which has become something of a legend among modern Les Paul players thanks to its incredibly resonant construction and beautifully figured tops. The big difference here is that this one skipped the controversial HP electronics and robo tuners and instead came equipped with Grover locking tuners, which are far more practical and reliable for everyday playing.

Tone-wise this one really shines. It has been upgraded with a set of Seymour Duncan pickups, professionally installed, which give the guitar a noticeable step up in clarity, punch, and articulation compared to the stock pickups. You get that classic Les Paul authority, but with extra definition and bite when you dig in. The upgraded metal pickup rings add a nice visual contrast against the flame top and chrome hardware, giving the whole guitar a slightly more aggressive aesthetic without losing its classic look.

Playability is exactly what you’d hope for from a well cared for Les Paul. The guitar recently received a full professional setup, including polished frets and an oiled fretboard, so it plays effortlessly up and down the neck. It feels broken in and responsive in the way great Les Pauls tend to feel once everything is dialed in.

Condition is excellent overall. It has clearly been cared for throughout its life. The only notable cosmetic marks are some light finish scratches near the strap button area and a small bump on the back edge, both pictured. Outside of that, the guitar presents beautifully and the top remains the star of the show.

It comes with the original Gibson brown hard shell case, which is included with the sale.

This is one of those Les Pauls that hits a sweet spot: rare run, exceptional flame top, upgraded electronics, and dialed-in playability. If you’re looking for a Classic that stands out from the typical examples, this one definitely checks that box.

Key Features

• 2017 Gibson Les Paul Classic Plus (AMS Exclusive Run)
• Heritage Cherry Sunburst finish with highly figured flame maple top
• Built on the desirable 2017 Classic HP platform construction
• Seymour Duncan pickups professionally installed
• Upgraded metal pickup frames for added visual contrast
• Factory Grover locking tuners (no robo tuner system)
• Mahogany body with maple cap and rosewood fingerboard
• Recently professionally setup with polished frets and oiled fretboard
• Includes original Gibson brown hard shell case

Like all my guitars, this one’s been cared for and dialed in—no guesswork, no surprises, just a great instrument that’s ready to play. I personally inspect and test every guitar before it ships, making sure it’s in the exact condition I’d want to receive myself. These guitars come from me, not a shop—each one gets the kind of attention and care only a real guitar lover gives. Ships fast and insured.

⏳ Quick note

These guitars don’t usually sit. Most are purchased within 1–5 days, and I regularly hear from watchers after the listing has already sold. If this one’s on your radar, now’s the window!