In 1958 Gibson introduced three models, designed and patented by company president Ted McCarty, that shattered the traditional concept that an electric guitar body had to resemble a conventional guitar. Of the three models - the Flying V, Explorer and Moderne - the V sold the most, but only 98 were sold in 1958 and '59. Commercially the V was a failure, although it did succeed in changing Gibson's image as a stodgy traditional company. It proved to be around ten years ahead of its time. Gibson tried it again in the late 1960s, and when Jimi Hendrix picked up a Flying V, the radical design seemed to fit perfectly with the music of the times.
This 1958 Flying V (inv. #EA1435) is in excellent condition. The neck has been refinished by Dave Lautner of Gruhn Guitars, leaving the original serial number fully intact. The tuner buttons have been replaced. The jackplate has been replaced with a vintage replica part (the cracked original is in the case pocket. With the orignal hard case, this guitar is offered at $60,000.
For full appreciation...
Close of body
Pickups and knobs
Fingerboard
Headstock
Back of headstock
Back of neck
Full back view
Back of body
Guitar in case
Case closed
