LSN News › India

Culture & Entertainment · India Bureau

Legendary blues guitarist Lonnie Mack's iconic Flying V guitar sells for $550,000

A rare 1958 Gibson Flying V guitar owned by blues-rock pioneer Lonnie Mack has fetched $550,000 at auction, underscoring the instrument's significance in music history. The sale also included Mack's 1962 Magnatone amplifier that helped define his distinctive sound.

LSN India · 21 October 2026

Legendary blues guitarist Lonnie Mack's iconic Flying V guitar sells for $550,000

The instrument, known as 'Number 7', represents a pivotal piece of blues-rock heritage. The 1958 Gibson Flying V was customized to suit Mack's innovative playing techniques, which revolutionized the genre during his career spanning several decades.

Mack's influence on blues-rock music has been substantial, with his guitar work inspiring generations of musicians. The Flying V's unique geometric design, combined with Mack's technical mastery, created a sound that became synonymous with his performances.

Accompanying the guitar at auction was Mack's 1962 Magnatone Custom 440 amplifier, an essential component of his sonic palette. The amplifier's characteristics were instrumental in shaping the tonal qualities that defined Mack's recordings and live performances.

The substantial sale price reflects the enduring value placed on instruments associated with influential musicians and their contributions to popular music. For collectors and enthusiasts, such artifacts represent tangible connections to pivotal moments in blues-rock history.