Firebird V by Gibson
The Firebird V model was released by Gibson beginning in 1963, along with the other Firebird variations. The design would stay in production throughout the 1960's. It featured the 'reverse' lightning-bolt-like body style in the beginning, then switching to the opposite non-reversed design in 1965. This guitar has been reissued by Gibson in various formats.
The Firebird V features a 'neck-through' body, with the 'wings' glued on. It features two mini-humbucking pickups (which were originally made for Gibson's Epiphone line). The neck has trapezoid pearloid inlays. The head features banjo-oriented tuners, e.g., tuners appear on the underside of the head. This model has a vibrato tailpiece (similar to that of an SG Standard). It was available in Pelham Blue (1963), Sunburst, and Cardinal Red.
The V is considered the 'standard' model of Firebird, with the Firebird I being the lower-end, III being low-mid, and the VII being the higher-end. The Firebird V originally retailed for $325.00.