The 2-pickup Les Paul Special was introduced in 1955 as an intermediate model, positioned between the low-cost Les Paul Junior and the Les Paul Model. Originally available only in a single cutaway, the TV-style limed Mahogany finish, the Special was changed in 1959 to a double cutaway model and a Cherry Red finish was added to the mix. Now part of Gibson's proprietary new Vintage Original Spec series -- the next step in our journey toward perfection.