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1997 Gibson Les Paul Smartwood Standard Antique Natural - $2,300 (Carle Place)
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From my research, Gibson made the Smartwood Exotics from 1998-2002. They either contained the words “Smart Wood” on the truss rod cover, or had a green leaf there. They were similar to The Paul, except: (1) They were made of wood certified by the Rainforest Alliance; (2) They had a Curupay fingerboard, dot markers, and “Smart Wood” or a green leaf on the truss rod cover; (3) They had gold plated hardware; (4) They had a top cap of either Ambay Guasu, Banara, Curupay, Peroba, Taperyva Guasu, or Cancharana wood (beautiful rare tropical woods harvested from a sustainable forest in Paraguay); and, (5) They had a natural finish.
This is the Standard version in Antique Natural which sold for more than the Exotics. It has a Maple Top. Its black and neck are Chetchen, a rosewood alternative. As you can see from the attached literature, it cost $3,399 when it was issued.
The pictures show that the guitar is Made in U.S.A. and has the words "Smartwood Series." The serial number on the back establishes that it was made in 1997.
By the way, I must mention that the sound of the Smartwoods are incredible. They have a very interesting tone to them. Plus, it’s a Gibson. Need I say more? And if you are into saving the world, well, this guitar was made from woods from well-managed forests, certified in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the Forest Stewardship Council and a portion of the sales were donated to benefit the Rainforest Alliance. By the way, there have been articles written about this guitar and it has been featured in books about the Gibson Les Paul guitar so you can check out the information to make sure that what I am telling you is accurate. This guitar was housed in a smoke free home. Coming with a Gibson hard case. Please see pictures for details. Contact me with any questions and/or more pictures. I am not looking for a trade.