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Description

Johnny Winter's circa 2008 Gibson Johnny Winter Prototype # 1 '63 Firebird V Sunburst Solid Body Electric Guitar and Personal Satchel.
This 2008 Gibson Custom Shop Firebird V is the #1 prototype from the limited reproduction series created in collaboration with Johnny Winter to honor his legendary 1963 Firebird V. Johnny personally sent his original Firebird to Gibson for reference, ensuring an exact replica down to the wear patterns and cracks. After receiving and playing the prototype, Johnny was amazed at how closely it matched his original. The guitar was later presented to him by Slash in a special ceremony in Nashville, where they performed "Highway 61 Revisited" together with Larry Carlton. This prototype remained part of Johnny's personal collection until his passing in 2014 and was later sold in the 2016 estate auction, "Johnny Winter, The Auction."
Included with the guitar is Johnny Winter's personal satchel, which was also sold at the estate auction.
Johnny Winter (1944-2014) was one of the most influential blues-rock guitarists of all time, known for his blazing slide guitar, high-energy performances, and deep connection to the blues. His Gibson Firebird became his signature guitar, defining his tone and stage presence. Winter's career included performances at Woodstock, collaborations with Muddy Waters on Grammy-winning albums, and a lifelong dedication to modernizing the blues while preserving its roots.
This one-of-a-kind prototype is an exceptional collector's piece, personally played and owned by Johnny Winter himself. Directly tied to one of the most iconic blues guitarists in history, it represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history.
7.9lbs. Original hard case included. Condition: Excellent.


Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Proxy Bidding Ends 
December
5th Friday 2:20 pm CT
Auction Dates
December
5th Friday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining 
11 Days 21h 41m
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 1
Lot Tracking Activity: 83
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This lot is in: 2 - Signature® Floor Session - CELEBRITY/SIGNED INSTRUMENTS (Live Floor, Live Phone, Mail, Fax, Internet, and Heritage Live):
(Lots 85166-85265) - 2:30 PM Central Time, Friday, December 5, 2025.
[Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session.]

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Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261

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