DALLAS, TX.- Ted Nugent's 1968 Gibson Byrdland Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar, Serial # 899093, the very guitar that the controversial rocker wrote and recorded his biggest hit, "Stranglehold" on ranked as one of the greatest guitar solo of all time by Guitar World Magazine is expected to bring $100,000+ when it crosses the auction block on June 20th at
Heritage Auctions in Dallas.
"The auction of this beautiful and iconic guitar is just about the music," said Isaiah Evans, Director of Vintage Guitars at Heritage Auctions. "Whatever other issues that Ted is outspoken on, he is, first and foremost, regarded as one of rock n' roll's great guitarists. 'Stranglehold' is hands down one of the most iconic and influential rock songs of the last 50 years. You can't separate that song from this guitar."
Debuting as the first track on Nugent's 1975 self-titled album, the cover of which featured this very guitar, the song became an instant sensation and skyrocketed Nugent to super-stardom.
"This 1968 Byrdland is the guitar that started it all," said Nugent. "I used this guitar to write and record 'Stranglehold' in late 1974 and I'm glad to see that it will be getting a new home hopefully with someone that will play it and love it as much I have."
Nugent purchased the guitar near the end of his run with the legendary Amboy Dukes, dubbing it the "Test Byrd." It quickly became one of his favorites and his guitar of choice for writing, recording and testing new pickups. It features Nugent's trademark wood burned "Ted Nugent #3" on its back and shows small areas of strum wear on the top from years of honest play.
Another guitar in the auction with a Nugent connection is a 1987 Paul Reed Smith (PRS) Custom Vintage Yellow Solid Body Electric Guitar, Serial # 7 2493, played by the rocker in shows around the world. It was also used by him to play The Star Spangled Banner at large events numerous times, including at the last Dallas Cowboys game at the legendary Texas Stadium and the team's first game at AT&T Stadium.
"In fact, at last count, Nugent had used the guitar to play The Star Spangled Banner on more than 15 documented occasions." said Evans.
It is estimated at $50,000+.