GPOTD 5.24.2023

Wyatt

Kick Henry Jackassowski
All Original 1976 Ibanez 2681 Bob Weir Artist “Tree of Life,” NEW Not Reissue USA Seller

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All Original 1976 Ibanez 2681 Bob Weir Artist “Tree of Life,” NEW Not Reissue USA Seller

An all original, 1976 Ibanez “Tree of Life,” which is essentially new. Essentially means that only if playing this instrument for a few minutes prior to purchase means not new; then it is not new. This guitar was locked in a glass display case in the music store in 1976 prior to purchase. The soon to be owner saw it, thought it was stunning; and traded a 1974 Les Paul and cash for it. This instrument has never seen any real playing time; and has been sitting in its original hard case since the fall of 1976.

The strings are the same original strings that were installed at the factory. Includes original store tag; original cord, still factory sealed; and yes, the original purchase receipt dated 11/29/76. There is also another set of strings included, which were “thrown in” for free at the time of purchase in 1976; but were never installed.

As can be seen, the protective paper is still on the plate that covers the electronics on the back of the guitar. There is some attractive patina visible near the white areas after 46 years.

Should you believe that the price is too high for this pristine, and perhaps in this condition unique specimen; please feel free to make an offer. Regarding rare coins, PCGS currently values the 1922 No D Lincoln cent at $2,050 in XF, $14,150 in MS60, $51,000 in MS64; and $90,000 in MS65.

I obtained this instrument from the original owner. Professional appraisal strongly recommended. Local pick up; or “white glove” shipping only. Payment by bank wire. Also available for sale locally.

https://reverb.com/item/68853272-al...rtist-tree-of-life-new-not-reissue-usa-seller
 
I have always wanted to like the Bob Weir model, but these all weigh like 12 lbs. The whole "heavy wood and brass hardware sustains better" myth was in full swing in the '70s. And, instead of a Hippie Sandwich, these are about as interesting looking as two slices of Wonder Bread (most don't have Tree of Life inlay).

BTW, the last 2681/Weir Tree of Life on Reverb sold for less than $3K. I'm not sure the (now stuck for life) protective paper and original strings add that much.
 
Yes I would enjoy that, tree o' life and all. Bob was playing those Artist guitars when I first got into the Dead.

The weight is a concern and the price is definitely a deal-breaker tho.
 
Just reading that belabored justification of the use of the word "new" in the second paragraph, you know this seller will be a colossal pain in the ass to deal with. Fortunately, the asking price precludes that from ever happening.
 
the only way that guitar would be worth $22,000+ would be if Bob owned and played it himself.
otherwise, it's just a 70's Ibanez Artist series guitar in mint condition.

edit: and besides, Bob's actual Ibanez was hardly stock, like that one.

edit 2: and if you look at the "Ibanez" on the headstock of Bob's and compare it to the one in the OP pic above, Bob's is a much earlier version. that's the older "Ibanez" logo. so they're not the same that way either.

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Looks great but I don’t care about the Dead and wouldn’t pay more than $2,500 for it.
 
This guitar manages to not check any of the boxes. Maybe if had silly money and played in some occult-themed stoner band doing seances, but it's a no.
 
The older Ibanez Artists were really nice guitars. That particular model is full on failboat (gold hardware, tons of inlay). No thank you.
 
While it is a unique instrument I think we can agree that in this case there are certain things we should not incorporate.
 
Did John McLaughlin play a doubleneck version of that? Was that a thing? I've got a vague memory from old guitar mags.
 
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