Back to the Future ES-345: A Tribute That’s Already a Collector’s Frenzy
Well, that didn’t take long. Within what felt like seconds of Gibson announcing their dual-release Back to the Future ES-345 — one a high-end USA Custom, the other a more wallet-friendly Epiphone — both models vanished from shelves. Sold out. Gone.
Honestly, it’s not surprising. The ES-345 that Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) wielded during the school dance scene is more than a movie prop — it’s a cultural icon. Even though the original guitar is still missing in action, its legacy clearly lives on, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
But here’s the part that has me scratching my head: Gibson released these tribute models before locating the actual guitar. I mean, wouldn’t it have been poetic to unveil the reissue alongside the rediscovery of the original? Still, I get it. The demand was there, and Gibson didn’t want to miss the moment. As a longtime fan of Hugh Gibson’s vision and craftsmanship, I can’t help but admire the boldness.
The Epiphone version, priced at $999, was a beacon for fans who couldn’t swing the $20k Custom Shop price tag. And now? Listings on Reverb are climbing into the stratosphere. One’s up for $4,179. Another seller had two listed for over $7,000 — now “discounted” to just under $5k. Even a third Epiphone is floating around at $5,570.
And the Custom Shop models? One’s been spotted at a jaw-dropping $145,873. Another was marked down from $122k to a modest $97k. It’s wild, it’s excessive, and it’s kind of beautiful.
Whether or not the original ES-345 ever resurfaces, this release proves one thing: Gibson knows how to stir hearts, spark nostalgia, and keep the legend alive. And as a fan, I’m here for it — even if I’m still wondering what happened to that elusive guitar.
-CEALEE MAAG-