Stolen Stones Guitar Surfaces in Met Museum

Mick Taylor’s iconic 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he acquired from Keith Richards in 1967, was stolen along with eight other guitars and additional instruments during the Rolling Stones’ 'Exile on Main St.' sessions in 1971, reportedly by local drug dealers to whom Richards owed money. The guitar, notable for its appearances with Richards on the Ed Sullivan Show and with Taylor at the Altamont Free Concert, as well as occasional use by Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton, was recently found in a donation of over 500 vintage guitars to New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Taylor’s business manager confirmed the guitar’s identity by its distinctive 'flaming' body, while Taylor has stated he was never compensated for the loss and was unaware how the stolen instrument came to the museum. The Met had previously showcased the guitar, underscoring its cultural and historical value. The discovery has sparked controversy regarding the museum’s acceptance of the instrument and questions over rightful ownership or compensation for Taylor. The museum has described the donation as a landmark contribution to its collection of American guitars.