Travis Bean TB1000 A Koa (1978)

In a 1977 advertisement Travis Bean Guitars touted its aluminum neck guitars as "the first new development in electric guitar since the 1930s." Exaggerated, to be sure, but still a claim that reflected a company that was confident in the instruments they were building. They saw their patented neck concept - a single piece of metal extending from the headstock to the bridge - as a turning point in guitar innovation. And while Travis Bean wasn't the first guitar maker to use aluminum as a construction material, he was the first to do so sustainably, forging guitars that have resonated with a loyal and growing band of players in the years since. This Travis Bean is a TB1000A, the Artist model, which is the higher-end counterpart to the standard TB1000S and features a carved Hawaiian koa top and block inlays in the style of a Black Beauty Les Paul Custom. The original retail price of this model was $1,395, making this guitar one of the most expensive of its time. Moreover, only about 3,650 Travis Bean guitars and basses were made during the five years of the original company's existence, giving these instruments the highest rarity value. The TB1000A delivers a bright, clear, articulate, and powerful sound, which is why a host of notable artists such as Keith Richards, Ron Wood, Joe Perry and Jerry Garcia loved and used this guitar extensively. This TB1000A, which unfortunately does not come in its original case, is in top condition considering its age. Of course it shows minor wear here and there, but the frets have minimal play marks. So, if you want a unique sounding piece of music history, this is the one for you.

• Inclusive case
• Weight: 4175 grams