The score is composed by frequent Leone collaborator Ennio Morricone, whose distinctive original compositions, containing gunfire, whistling, and yodeling permeate the film.

[1][2] Among other elements, the score complements the film's American Civil War scenes, containing the mournful ballad "The Story of a Soldier", which is sung by prisoners as Tuco is being tortured by Angel Eyes.

[3] The film's famous climax, a three-way Mexican standoff, begins with the melody of "The Ecstasy of Gold" and is followed by "The Trio".

[6][7] In 2020, a three-disc release presenting the complete score and the original album was issued by the Spanish label Quartet Records.

(**) this track is extended and features music previously only heard in the film version of this piece, namely the original ending.