The evolution of the Les Paul Standard

1952

Introduced as the Les Paul Model with two single-coil P-90 pickups

1953

‘Wrapover’ stud bridge/tailpiece replaces trapeze bridge/tailpiece; serial number appears on headstock

1954

Shallow neck angle deepened for improved action and sustain

1955

Tune-o-matic bridge and stop tailpiece added

1957

PAF humbuckers added

1958

Renamed ‘Les Paul Standard’; two-piece bookmatched maple top with Cherry Red Sunburst finish

1959

Larger frets introduced; neck profile less chunky than previous year

1960

Slim neck profile; changes to SG body shape at end of year

1968

Single-cut Les Paul Standard body shape reintroduced and production continues up to present