Gibson Custom 1957 Mahogany Moderne Reissue VOS Antique Natural Electric Guitar

In the late 50s, Gibson designed a trio of futuristic-looking “Modernist” models that were intended to bring fresh, modern-looking designs to the product lineup. These included the Flying V™, the Futura™, which was the precursor of the Explorer™, and the Moderne™. While the Flying V and Futura/Explorer would eventually be released in 1958, the Moderne’s history is less certain. Some sources say that a few prototypes were built but never sold and were later destroyed. Others report that a few Modernes may have escaped into the wild, but to this day, no authenticated physical examples of 1957 Modernes have ever been found. It’s one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of the guitar world, a puzzle that continues to intrigue and engage guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike.