Since 1958 Gibson has made so many versions of this design. Many of them are great. I will offer the thought that this is the best version of the Flying V guitar. It is light weight. It stays in tune. It is attractive. This one is an early one. It is very complete and all original but has a repaired crack behind the nut, see picture. This is a very clean guitar with also its nice original purple lined case. I bought this two years ago for my "collection" but better for it to be put to good use by you and what army.