Lonnie Mack's Rare Gibson Flying V Hits Auction Block

The historic 1958 guitar is expected to exceed its starting bid of $300,000 at Heritage Auctions.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Rock

Graphic illustration of a V-shaped electric guitar in red and cream, representing a historic rock-and-roll musical artifact. — Lonnie Mack's historic 1958 Gibson Flying V, a foundational instrument in the development of rock guitar, is currently listed for auction at Heritage Auctions with a starting bid of $300,000. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Heritage Auctions has opened bidding on Lonnie Mack's 1958 Gibson Flying V, a historic instrument marked as number seven off the production line. The auction also includes a 1962 Magnatone Custom 440 combo amplifier.

Why it matters

The instrument is a significant artifact from the career of rock guitarist Lonnie Mack, who influenced many artists including Stevie Ray Vaughan. The sale offers collectors a rare chance to acquire a piece of music history that remained a centerpiece of Mack's sound for decades.

The 1958 Gibson Flying V carries a starting bid of $300,000. It is identified as the seventh guitar to come off the original production line.

The players

Lonnie Mack

He was a pioneering rock guitarist and vocalist known for his signature vibrato-heavy sound.

Stevie Ray Vaughan

He was a renowned blues guitarist who cited Mack as a primary influence and co-produced his 1985 comeback album.

Heritage Auctions

This is a major auction house that specializes in collectibles, historical artifacts, and music memorabilia.

The details

Lonnie Mack modified the guitar in 1963 by adding a metal bar to accommodate a Bigsby vibrato, and he also refinished the instrument that same year. Mack often played this guitar through a Fender Vibroverb amplifier and an Ibanez Tube Screamer to achieve his distinct tone.

Gibson produced the Flying V in 1958.
Mack refinished the guitar in 1963.
Mack performed as a bass player on the Doors' 1970 album, Morrison Hotel.
Mack and Stevie Ray Vaughan collaborated on the 1985 album Strike Like Lightning.

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Industry Dynamics

This auction follows the pattern of record-setting sales for the 1958 Gibson Flying V, which remains one of the most sought-after vintage electric guitars in the world. The sale reinforces the growing market status of iconic gear as investment-grade assets in the rock memorabilia sector.

Prospective buyers can participate in the auction through Heritage Auctions to compete for the instrument. The high starting bid suggests the guitar will likely remain in the hands of private collectors or high-end archival institutions.

The takeaway

Lonnie Mack's career highlights the deep professional connections that defined 20th-century blues-rock history. Enthusiasts should note that maintaining the playability of modified vintage gear like this requires careful attention to the original modifications made by the artist.