Yes, it may be of value to a collector/craftsman that would want to put thousands of dollars of all original 50s parts in it, but maybe not. Unless there is any specific marking on it I'm guessing George won't commit to anything. At any rate, before altering it, it might still be a good idea to contact Vingtae Guitar or George Gruhn just for kicks.

From what I've read about Gibson prototypes and experiments, it very well could be mahogany, and could have been in the dumpster for your old neighbor to nab. If it's dark enough wood to look like unfinished mahogany, it's likely not Korina. I understand your itchy fingers wanting to play it, but at the outside chance it's worth something, put it on eBay and sell it to someone who REALLY wants it. Maybe it could buy you a new Custom Shop piece! If you find out it isn't worth anything to anyone else, then do what you want with it. Personally, I'd stick with a natural finish, but then I'm not the one holding it. :)