Elvis Presley 68 Comeback Special Hagstrom V-2 Guitar

Elvis Presley 1968 Comeback Special Hagstrom V-2 Guitar (Exhibited in Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum W/Extensive Documentation and Letter From Priscilla Presley) - This incredibly important artifact is one of the most historically significant and iconic instruments of all time. This incredible piece of rock n' roll history is the red Hagstrom Viking II show guitar that was played by Elvis Presley in what was perhaps one of the most iconic performances by the superstar on national television to date, the "1968 Comeback Special." The "1968 comeback special", Singer Presents...Elvis, aired on NBC on December 3, 1968 and marked Elvis' return to live performance after seven years during which his career was centered on the movie business. The special was initially planned as Christmas special, however after Elvis' negative reaction to singing Christmas carols on national television the special was transformed by Presley's manager Colonel Tom Parker and producer Bob Finkel to create a concert that would be current and appeal to a younger audience. The 68' Comeback Special launched Elvis Presley's return to live touring, beginning with a series of performances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas, his first public stage appearance in eight years. Elvis Presley played this guitar in several segments of the show, and is pictured with it on the cover of the RCA album, From Elvis in Memphis. This guitar belonged to Al Casey, a wonderful musician in his own right, who performed in the backing band during the special. According to the accompanying letter from Casey, he was asked to let Elvis use the guitar by the producers, as they thought it would look beautiful on camera and with the set. Elvis used the guitar for the opening segment as well as during one of the live "stand-up" segments. The guitar comes with a notarized letter of authenticity from Al Casey, a second letter of authenticity from Casey, a notarized statement from Hal Blaine who was the drummer on the 68' Comeback Special and a letter from legendary producer Bones Howe, who was the music producer on the special. The lot will also include a letter from Priscilla Presley, several photographs of Elvis during the filming of the special, including three negatives, and various loan paperwork from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, at which this guitar was exhibited as part of an Elvis Presley exhibit. Due to the amount of global press this artifact has already received, we would be willing to assist in a post auction PR campaign for the winning bidder if they so choose as we expect that the sale of this piece will be a worldwide story. The 1968 Comeback Special was recreated in this year's critically-acclaimed Baz Luhrmann film, Elvis, and featured the iconic red guitar. Please note: This item is located in Florida and shipping will be at the expense of the buyer. The auction will help facilitate shipping arrangements, if necessary.