In 1982, Gibson collaborated with legendary fingerstyle guitarist Chet Atkins to introduce the Chet Atkins CE (Cutaway Electric)—a groundbreaking nylon-string guitar that eliminated feedback on loud stages. This particular instrument is a highly coveted, super-limited edition originating from the early days of the Gibson Custom Shop. Adding immense historical value to this rare collector's piece is an included, hand-signed letter from Chet Atkins himself, making it a crowning jewel for any serious vintage enthusiast or Chet Atkins devotee.
Construction: Innovative Design, Premium Appointments
The 1982 Chet Atkins CE features a unique chambered mahogany body with a select spruce top, delivering a warm, acoustic-like resonance without the feedback vulnerabilities of a traditional hollowbody. The mahogany neck is built for precision and stability, while the rosewood fingerboard offers the smooth, responsive feel required for complex fingerpicking and classical techniques.
True to its Custom Shop pedigree, this limited edition features elegant multi-ply binding and gold-plated hardware. The slim, comfortable neck profile and distinct Florentine cutaway provide effortless access to the upper frets, seamlessly blending acoustic traditions with solidbody electric playability.
Electronics and Hardware
Equipped with an innovative multi-element piezo bridge pickup system, the Chet Atkins CE delivers a remarkably pristine, articulate nylon-string tone. Individual volume and tone controls are mounted directly on the upper bout for quick, transparent adjustments on stage or in the studio.
Gold-plated hardware, including the specialized Gibson tie-block bridge and premium classical-style tuning machines with pearloid buttons, ensures both exceptional tuning stability and a luxurious aesthetic.
A Note on Vintage Condition
This is a used vintage instrument from our inventory. As with any guitar over 40 years old, it may exhibit light cosmetic wear, finish checking, or minor hardware tarnishing consistent with normal ownership, aging, and careful use. The accompanying hand-signed letter from Chet Atkins has been carefully preserved. We encourage prospective buyers to carefully review all photos and ask any questions prior to purchase.
Product Features:
Body: Chambered mahogany body with a select solid spruce top
Neck: Mahogany set neck with a comfortable acoustic-electric profile
Fingerboard: Rosewood with traditional classical spacing (no inlays)
Pickups: Gibson multi-element piezo bridge pickup
Controls: Upper-bout mounted master volume and tone controls
Bridge: Traditional rosewood tie-block bridge with piezo saddles
Hardware: Gold-plated throughout
Headstock: Classical slotted headstock with premium tuning machines
Special Features: Super limited edition with an included hand-signed letter from Chet Atkins
Year: 1982
This is a used guitar from our inventory. Pictures are of the actual item you will receive.
This vintage 1982 Gibson Custom Shop Chet Atkins CE shows honest, light wear consistent with its age and history. The guitar remains in beautiful condition, and our in-house technicians have thoroughly evaluated the electronics and structural components to confirm it is fully functional and completely sound. The authentic, hand-signed letter from Chet Atkins is included with the sale. Handles on the case are broken. Original handles put in case pocket. Please review the photos carefully, as they provide the best representation of the instrument's overall condition and provenance.
Brand: Gibson
Model: Custom Shop Chet Atkins CE (Limited Edition)
SKU: U-1982-CHET-ATKINS-CE|K01
Condition: Used
Since 1872, C.A. House Music has been helping musicians across the Ohio Valley find the right gear—with real advice from a team that actually plays. We're your authorized dealer of all the big names in guitars, keyboards, band instruments, drums, pro audio, and more. With four family-owned and operated locations in Ohio and West Virginia (plus a full online store), you don't have to go far for instruments, lessons, rentals, and repairs. No matter your musical needs, our team of musicians wants to help you Play Music for Life
