Nashville-based guitar giant Gibson Guitars has taken legal action against 16 Creative, the company behind “Trump Guitars,” issuing a cease and desist order for trademark design infringement. This action, confirmed by Gibson to The Tennessean, centers around the “Trump Guitar,” which closely mimics the iconic body shape of Gibson’s trademarked Les Paul guitar.
Gibson Guitars alleges that the “Trump Guitar” infringes upon their protected Les Paul design. Marketed as “the only guitar officially endorsed by President Donald J. Trump,” the instrument’s resemblance to the Les Paul is at the heart of the legal dispute. While Gibson confirmed the cease and desist order, a company spokesperson stated they would not provide further comments due to pending litigation.
The Trump Guitars website promotes the “Presidential Series” solid-body guitars for $1,500. Alongside this series, they offer an “American Eagle Series” of both acoustic and electric guitars, priced between $1,250 and $1,500. Autographed versions are listed at prices exceeding $10,000. The website states these guitars are custom designed and developed by a veteran-owned company, with input from a master luthier. However, details regarding the manufacturing process and location remain unclear.
According to their website, Trump Guitars are produced by “multiple providers” and incorporate both domestic and international parts. A distinctive feature highlighted 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.
16 Creative has not responded to requests for comment on the cease and desist order. Attempts to contact the company via email resulted in undeliverable messages. The situation remains ongoing as Gibson pursues legal action to protect its trademarked designs against what it deems infringement by 16 Creative’s Trump Guitars.
