1976 Gibson Firebird Bicentennial Limited Edition - w OHSC & Paperwork - Black - Pro Set Up w Perfect Frets/Action/Intonation!
Classic 1976 Gibson Firebird
Limited Edition Bicentennial Edition
Made in the USA
Serial Number: 00247443
Nut: 1.67
1st Fret- .80
12th Fret- .98
Radius: 12"
Weight: 8 lbs 11 oz's
Comes with Original Hard Shell Case and Paperwork Pictured
$$$ It has just been professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing. The frets are in perfect condition and polished to shine like a mirror, it is truly stage or studio ready/worthy. Including New Strings, Perfect Intonation, Truss Rod Adjustment and Low Action Read Our Feedback and Rest Assured, The Dude Abides!
1976 Gibson Firebird Bicentennial – A Timeless Classic in Stunning Black Nitro Finish
Unleash your inner rock legend with this breathtaking 1976 Gibson Firebird Bicentennial, a rare gem that embodies the spirit of American craftsmanship and vintage tone. Draped in its original, lustrous black nitrocellulose finish, this guitar is a visual and sonic masterpiece, with a patina that tells the story of its storied past. A true player friendly and collector worthy piece, this Firebird is all-original except for a tasteful upgrade to Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers, delivering fiery, articulate tones that cut through any mix with unparalleled clarity and punch.
**Why This Firebird?**
Crafted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, the 1976 Firebird Bicentennial is a symbol of Gibson’s golden era. Its sleek, reverse-body design and iconic headstock turn heads, while its playability and tone make it a dream for players and collectors alike. This guitar has been lovingly maintained, with the original black nitro finish showcasing a subtle, natural checking that enhances its vintage allure. The Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers add a modern edge, offering a versatile tonal palette—from warm, jazzy cleans to snarling, high-gain grit—perfect for rock, blues, and beyond.
**Condition**: This Firebird is in pretty good vintage condition, with lots of playwear that adds character without compromising integrity. The neck is straight, frets are in great shape, and the guitar plays like a dream. The Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers are professionally installed, wiring is clean, and electronics function flawlessly. Ready to hit the stage or your collection display.
This bird is ready to spread its wings and help you fly away on a beautiful musical journey. This Original 1976 Bicentennial Gibson Firebird is a pro players dream come true. It is an attention grabber on stage, sounds beefy and feels just right in your hands. True vintage MOJO with the right amount of attitude. It is all original minus the upgraded and much better sounding Seymour Duncan Pickups.
Finish Details: Original Black Nitro
Body Material: Mahogany
Body Details: Neck-through body design with two-piece mahogany center and mahogany wings.
Neck Material: Mahogany
Fingerboard Material: Rosewood
Neck Profile: "C" profile
Neck Thickness (IN): .80" (1st fret), .98" (12th fret)
Fingerboard Radius: 12.00"
Nut Width: 1-11/16"
Scale Length: 24 3/4"
Neck Details: Neck-through two-piece mahogany neck, with unbound rosewood fretboard and dot inlays. The frets have been dressed, leveled, and polished and shine like new. NO DIVOTS
Electronics: The Pickups have been swapped for Seymor Duncan Mini Humbuckers, the other electronics are original and the pot codes date to 1976.
Hardware: Original hardware, the hardware displays some tarnish
Case Details: Original hardshell case
Cosmetic Condition: The guitar shows natural play wear, sweet Mojo and shows its age
Tech Notes: Plays EXTREMELY well with low action and light neck relief; the guitar is currently set up with 10s. The serial number and original pot codes date the guitar to 1976.
Some Cool History - In the first half of the 1960s, Gibson President Ted McCarty persuaded legendary Chrysler car designer Ray Dietrich to join the company and commissioned him to develop the first Gibson Firebird. The offset ‘reverse’ body shape of the Firebird featured the treble horn extending further than the bass side of the body. The Firebird’s other innovations included Gibson’s first guitar with mahogany neck‑through‑body construction and mahogany ‘body wings’ to give the Firebird’s distinctive outline. The headstock was also inverted and used unusual ‘banjo’‑style tuners. In addition, the ‘reverse’ Firebird used unique mini‑humbucking pickups giving it an aggressive biting tone like no other guitar in Gibson’s line up. There were four versions of the Firebird, depending on specification, numbered I, III, V and VII. The original Firebird was launched on the market in mid‑1963, the Firebird was difficult and expensive to manufacture and it didn’t sell particularly well. Also, Fender threatened Gibson with design infringements relating to Fender’s Jazzmaster and Jaguar. In 1965, Gibson changed to a much simpler ‘non‑reverse’ design that stayed in production until 1969. The original ‘reverse’ Firebird was briefly re‑issued as a limited ‘Medallion’ edition in 1972. In 1976, Gibson reissued the ‘reverse’ Firebird again as a Bicentennial edition to celebrate 200 years of American independence. The Bicentennial featured black, vintage white, natural, and sunburst finishes, gold hardware and a special commemorative red/blue ‘76 phoenix’ logo on the scratchplate.
It has been conjectured that the original ‘reverse’ Firebird body shape was inspired by the accentuated wings and tail fins of automobile design, especially given that Ray Dietrich was a famed former car designer. However, the fad for 1950s car style had pretty much passed by the early 1960s. It is more likely that Dietrich adapted the ‘failed’ Explorer body shape as a starting point and rounded off the Explorer’s more aggressive outline for the Firebird and then added his own distinctive features.
There were 2,847 Gibson Firebird Bicentennials made between 1976 and 1979. 1,277 were finished in ebony black, 1,254 in natural, 199 in tobacco sunburst and 117 in white. Of the ebony models, only 222 were made in 1976.
This guitar is professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing or dead spots and is an absolute joy to play. It has been deep cleaned and detailed. All guitars will arrive looking and playing great. The frets have been leveled / dressed / polished and the fingerboard was cleaned. (Unfinished Rosewood and Ebony boards get treated with Fret Doctor - a proprietary all natural oil that is the best on the market) It has brand new strings, the action was adjusted, the intonation is spot on and it plays excellent. All the electronics work flawlessly.
**** We stand behind every guitar we sell and have consistently delivered quality that beats most people expectations, earning us a reputation for quality that is unrivaled. Simply put “good enough” is not good enough for The Guitar Dude’s standards. We try and make every guitar be at its absolute BEST to deliver on our promise. We take great pride in what we do and we are always trying our best.
* Neck is perfectly straight and the truss rod works with no issues
* Intonation is spot-on
* It has been professionally set up with nice low action & new American made strings.
* If needed, the frets will be dressed leveled & crowned
* All frets are polished prior to shipping when they are set up - They will shine like new!
***Please note that international shipping prices listed are minimum quotes in some cases. Certain countries are more expensive and will require additional shipping costs. Express services such as UPS, DHL & FedEx are also available, Please contact me for a personalized quote.
About Us
The Guitar Dude is a THREE time NAMM Top 100 Dealer in the world who has been selling some of the best guitars on the planet since 2009. Known for the most Killer Flame Top Gibson 1959 Les Pauls Reissues and classic Fender guitars of all eras. I make beautiful guitar porn, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter.
Often copied & imitated, but never duplicated.
Like what you see? Let me go to work for you.
I offer the best consignment sales on the planet! Find me online, just look for The Guitar Dude
For in-hand description, to propose a consignment sale or anything else please contact us
I offer a super relaxed layaway plan on certain guitars, that can be custom built to fit your budget and needs. It can be extended beyond 45 days in certain situations. If you are interested in a layaway plan, please contact me for full details.
Terms For Returns & Re-Stocking Fee’s
We recognize and accept a 7 day return policy as per Reverb guidelines, BUT intentions of the return must be communicated in writing within 3 day of receiving the guitar as indicated by the tracking. Unless the guitar is not as described, ORIGINAL & RETURN SHIPPING COSTS WILL NOT BE REFUNDED. There is a 10% Re-stocking fee for ALL guitars that are returned for ANY reason outside of damage from shipping or it arrives significantly not as described. Please note that we record demo videos to make sure our guitars go out exactly as we describe them with zero issues. We understand that feeling comfortable is vital to the purchase of a guitar/bass so in any case, additional measurements or in hand descriptions are available prior to purchase/shipping. Thats said, guitars travel a great distance some times and in transit things can happen. Also guitars acclimate to new environments and this can cause a need for a new set up or minor adjustment. It is acceptable and normal if there is for instance a tiny bit of buzzing or the need to adjust a truss rod. We are in south Florida and if you are in a colder or less humid environment it is almost to be expected. Please read our feedback and see what our customers say. The guitar MUST BE RETURNED IN THE EXACT CONDITION it was advertised/received or it is subject to additional costs & or repair fees. We are not a big chain shop, I hope you understand. If you are uncomfortable with these terms please do not purchase. There are plenty big chain shops that can absorb free trials and shipping.
Payment - Shipping - International orders - Import Duties
ALL ITEMS CAN BE SHIPPED INTERNATIONALLY. - BUYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL IMPORT DUTIES.
I accept many forms of payment including PayPal Credit & Affirm. I always pack extremely well and ship within the USA via UPS or Fedex, all packages are fully insured with tracking & signature confirmation.
Classic 1976 Gibson Firebird
Limited Edition Bicentennial Edition
Made in the USA
Serial Number: 00247443
Nut: 1.67
1st Fret- .80
12th Fret- .98
Radius: 12"
Weight: 8 lbs 11 oz's
Comes with Original Hard Shell Case and Paperwork Pictured
$$$ It has just been professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing. The frets are in perfect condition and polished to shine like a mirror, it is truly stage or studio ready/worthy. Including New Strings, Perfect Intonation, Truss Rod Adjustment and Low Action Read Our Feedback and Rest Assured, The Dude Abides!
1976 Gibson Firebird Bicentennial – A Timeless Classic in Stunning Black Nitro Finish
Unleash your inner rock legend with this breathtaking 1976 Gibson Firebird Bicentennial, a rare gem that embodies the spirit of American craftsmanship and vintage tone. Draped in its original, lustrous black nitrocellulose finish, this guitar is a visual and sonic masterpiece, with a patina that tells the story of its storied past. A true player friendly and collector worthy piece, this Firebird is all-original except for a tasteful upgrade to Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers, delivering fiery, articulate tones that cut through any mix with unparalleled clarity and punch.
**Why This Firebird?**
Crafted to commemorate America’s 200th anniversary, the 1976 Firebird Bicentennial is a symbol of Gibson’s golden era. Its sleek, reverse-body design and iconic headstock turn heads, while its playability and tone make it a dream for players and collectors alike. This guitar has been lovingly maintained, with the original black nitro finish showcasing a subtle, natural checking that enhances its vintage allure. The Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers add a modern edge, offering a versatile tonal palette—from warm, jazzy cleans to snarling, high-gain grit—perfect for rock, blues, and beyond.
**Condition**: This Firebird is in pretty good vintage condition, with lots of playwear that adds character without compromising integrity. The neck is straight, frets are in great shape, and the guitar plays like a dream. The Seymour Duncan mini humbuckers are professionally installed, wiring is clean, and electronics function flawlessly. Ready to hit the stage or your collection display.
This bird is ready to spread its wings and help you fly away on a beautiful musical journey. This Original 1976 Bicentennial Gibson Firebird is a pro players dream come true. It is an attention grabber on stage, sounds beefy and feels just right in your hands. True vintage MOJO with the right amount of attitude. It is all original minus the upgraded and much better sounding Seymour Duncan Pickups.
Finish Details: Original Black Nitro
Body Material: Mahogany
Body Details: Neck-through body design with two-piece mahogany center and mahogany wings.
Neck Material: Mahogany
Fingerboard Material: Rosewood
Neck Profile: "C" profile
Neck Thickness (IN): .80" (1st fret), .98" (12th fret)
Fingerboard Radius: 12.00"
Nut Width: 1-11/16"
Scale Length: 24 3/4"
Neck Details: Neck-through two-piece mahogany neck, with unbound rosewood fretboard and dot inlays. The frets have been dressed, leveled, and polished and shine like new. NO DIVOTS
Electronics: The Pickups have been swapped for Seymor Duncan Mini Humbuckers, the other electronics are original and the pot codes date to 1976.
Hardware: Original hardware, the hardware displays some tarnish
Case Details: Original hardshell case
Cosmetic Condition: The guitar shows natural play wear, sweet Mojo and shows its age
Tech Notes: Plays EXTREMELY well with low action and light neck relief; the guitar is currently set up with 10s. The serial number and original pot codes date the guitar to 1976.
Some Cool History - In the first half of the 1960s, Gibson President Ted McCarty persuaded legendary Chrysler car designer Ray Dietrich to join the company and commissioned him to develop the first Gibson Firebird. The offset ‘reverse’ body shape of the Firebird featured the treble horn extending further than the bass side of the body. The Firebird’s other innovations included Gibson’s first guitar with mahogany neck‑through‑body construction and mahogany ‘body wings’ to give the Firebird’s distinctive outline. The headstock was also inverted and used unusual ‘banjo’‑style tuners. In addition, the ‘reverse’ Firebird used unique mini‑humbucking pickups giving it an aggressive biting tone like no other guitar in Gibson’s line up. There were four versions of the Firebird, depending on specification, numbered I, III, V and VII. The original Firebird was launched on the market in mid‑1963, the Firebird was difficult and expensive to manufacture and it didn’t sell particularly well. Also, Fender threatened Gibson with design infringements relating to Fender’s Jazzmaster and Jaguar. In 1965, Gibson changed to a much simpler ‘non‑reverse’ design that stayed in production until 1969. The original ‘reverse’ Firebird was briefly re‑issued as a limited ‘Medallion’ edition in 1972. In 1976, Gibson reissued the ‘reverse’ Firebird again as a Bicentennial edition to celebrate 200 years of American independence. The Bicentennial featured black, vintage white, natural, and sunburst finishes, gold hardware and a special commemorative red/blue ‘76 phoenix’ logo on the scratchplate.
It has been conjectured that the original ‘reverse’ Firebird body shape was inspired by the accentuated wings and tail fins of automobile design, especially given that Ray Dietrich was a famed former car designer. However, the fad for 1950s car style had pretty much passed by the early 1960s. It is more likely that Dietrich adapted the ‘failed’ Explorer body shape as a starting point and rounded off the Explorer’s more aggressive outline for the Firebird and then added his own distinctive features.
There were 2,847 Gibson Firebird Bicentennials made between 1976 and 1979. 1,277 were finished in ebony black, 1,254 in natural, 199 in tobacco sunburst and 117 in white. Of the ebony models, only 222 were made in 1976.
This guitar is professionally set up and dialed in for optimal tone and playability. It has low action with no buzzing or dead spots and is an absolute joy to play. It has been deep cleaned and detailed. All guitars will arrive looking and playing great. The frets have been leveled / dressed / polished and the fingerboard was cleaned. (Unfinished Rosewood and Ebony boards get treated with Fret Doctor - a proprietary all natural oil that is the best on the market) It has brand new strings, the action was adjusted, the intonation is spot on and it plays excellent. All the electronics work flawlessly.
**** We stand behind every guitar we sell and have consistently delivered quality that beats most people expectations, earning us a reputation for quality that is unrivaled. Simply put “good enough” is not good enough for The Guitar Dude’s standards. We try and make every guitar be at its absolute BEST to deliver on our promise. We take great pride in what we do and we are always trying our best.
* Neck is perfectly straight and the truss rod works with no issues
* Intonation is spot-on
* It has been professionally set up with nice low action & new American made strings.
* If needed, the frets will be dressed leveled & crowned
* All frets are polished prior to shipping when they are set up - They will shine like new!
***Please note that international shipping prices listed are minimum quotes in some cases. Certain countries are more expensive and will require additional shipping costs. Express services such as UPS, DHL & FedEx are also available, Please contact me for a personalized quote.
About Us
The Guitar Dude is a THREE time NAMM Top 100 Dealer in the world who has been selling some of the best guitars on the planet since 2009. Known for the most Killer Flame Top Gibson 1959 Les Pauls Reissues and classic Fender guitars of all eras. I make beautiful guitar porn, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter.
Often copied & imitated, but never duplicated.
Like what you see? Let me go to work for you.
I offer the best consignment sales on the planet! Find me online, just look for The Guitar Dude
For in-hand description, to propose a consignment sale or anything else please contact us
I offer a super relaxed layaway plan on certain guitars, that can be custom built to fit your budget and needs. It can be extended beyond 45 days in certain situations. If you are interested in a layaway plan, please contact me for full details.
Terms For Returns & Re-Stocking Fee’s
We recognize and accept a 7 day return policy as per Reverb guidelines, BUT intentions of the return must be communicated in writing within 3 day of receiving the guitar as indicated by the tracking. Unless the guitar is not as described, ORIGINAL & RETURN SHIPPING COSTS WILL NOT BE REFUNDED. There is a 10% Re-stocking fee for ALL guitars that are returned for ANY reason outside of damage from shipping or it arrives significantly not as described. Please note that we record demo videos to make sure our guitars go out exactly as we describe them with zero issues. We understand that feeling comfortable is vital to the purchase of a guitar/bass so in any case, additional measurements or in hand descriptions are available prior to purchase/shipping. Thats said, guitars travel a great distance some times and in transit things can happen. Also guitars acclimate to new environments and this can cause a need for a new set up or minor adjustment. It is acceptable and normal if there is for instance a tiny bit of buzzing or the need to adjust a truss rod. We are in south Florida and if you are in a colder or less humid environment it is almost to be expected. Please read our feedback and see what our customers say. The guitar MUST BE RETURNED IN THE EXACT CONDITION it was advertised/received or it is subject to additional costs & or repair fees. We are not a big chain shop, I hope you understand. If you are uncomfortable with these terms please do not purchase. There are plenty big chain shops that can absorb free trials and shipping.
Payment - Shipping - International orders - Import Duties
ALL ITEMS CAN BE SHIPPED INTERNATIONALLY. - BUYER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL IMPORT DUTIES.
I accept many forms of payment including PayPal Credit & Affirm. I always pack extremely well and ship within the USA via UPS or Fedex, all packages are fully insured with tracking & signature confirmation.