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Yesterday, a futuristic innovation. Today a rock-n-roll classic.
Although Gibson’s Flying V has always been considered one of the most classic and easily identifiable electric guitars, it was not always the most popular. First introduced in 1958, the Flying V was hardly a hit—most likely because of its “forward-looking” style and modernist design that was such a departure from other electric guitars of the time. It was named after a comment that its shape resembled a “flying v.” Of the small quantity produced, these guitars were often found in shops used as gimmicks or hung on walls as arrows directing buyers towards other Gibson guitars.

Nonetheless, the craftsmanship of these unique Gibson guitars is second to none. The Korina wood (similar in make-up to mahogany) used on the body and neck was specifically chosen because of its workability and fashionable natural golden color that only required a clear finish. The string-through-thebody design also contributes to the remarkable sound of the Flying V. It was because of this powerful sound and rare form that Jimi Hendrix first picked up a Flying V in 1967 and the Gibson guitar rose to the level of popularity it is still known for today.