He first used this 'natural' Casino during 'The White Album' sessions in 1968.
During that time, he also replaced the tuners with Gold Grovers and removed the pickguard. In 1968, John had his Casino sanded down to the bare wood and covered with a thin, dull finish.
Attention to detail includes the correct 'burst' pattern and front and back, neck joint at the 16th fret (instead of the 17th), vintage style tuners with small metal buttons, black washer around the toggle switch and the historically accurate rectangle 'blue label' inside the sound hole. The 1965 Casino is a reproduction of the original guitar John purchased with its sunburst finish and stock hardware. The Inspired by '1965' Lennon Casino: In 1966, during the recording of 'Revolver,' John Lennon and George Harrison each acquired vintage sunburst Epiphone Casino guitars.