Nashville-based guitar giant Gibson has taken legal action against 16 Creative, the company behind Trump Guitars, for alleged trademark infringement. The dispute centers around the design of Trump Guitars, specifically their resemblance to Gibson’s iconic Les Paul body shape. Gibson confirmed to The Tennessean that a cease-and-desist order has been issued, although they declined to comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Trump Guitars markets itself as “the only guitar officially endorsed by President Donald J. Trump.” Their “Presidential Series” guitars, priced at $1,500 on their website gettrumpguitars.com, are at the heart of the controversy due to their close similarity to the Les Paul design. In addition to the “Presidential Series,” Trump Guitars also offers an “American Eagle Series” featuring both acoustic and electric models, ranging from $1,250 to $1,500, with autographed versions reaching prices exceeding $10,000.
The Trump Guitars website states that these instruments are “custom designed and developed by a Veteran-owned company” in collaboration with a master luthier. However, the actual manufacturer of these guitars remains unclear. The website indicates that “multiple providers” are involved in the manufacturing process, utilizing both domestic and international parts and features. A distinctive feature highlighted on the site is the phrase “Make America Great Again” inlaid in pearl along the guitar neck, along with the number 45 on the headstock, representing Donald Trump’s presidency.
Jason Isbell, Gibson Guitars discuss Isbell's 'Red Eye' custom guitar
Despite attempts to reach 16 Creative for comment, emails to the company have been reported as undeliverable, leaving their response to Gibson’s cease-and-desist order unknown. The legal action raises questions about the future availability of Trump Guitars and the extent to which guitar manufacturers will protect their trademark designs in a politically charged marketplace. The case underscores the importance of brand identity and intellectual property rights within the competitive guitar industry.
