I found a Gibson Les Paul Standard on a local "Craiglist" style of online marketplace. I had to drive about 50 miles but it was worth the drive.
It was a 1996 Standard. It was listed as tobacco burst but it is actually Vintage sunburst. It came with a Gibson case and the guitar is flawless. It is over 12 years old and there isn't a mark on it. It was set up by the best Luthier in that city and it plays like a dream. It even came with a set of straplocks and a strap.
The guy wanted money for a Bass amp and really was desperate. I had cash in hand and I gave him an offer over 300 under his asking price that was almost 300 under the market value. AND HE TOOK IT. I had the rest of the money in my wallet just in case.
Pics? Of course!
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a3...z/P9200084.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a3...z/P9200083.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a3...z/P9200085.jpg