2016 Collings AT-16 Archtop 16 inch L-5 Owned by ZAC BROWN

2016 Collings AT-16 Archtop 16 inch L-5 Owned by ZAC BROWN!

Here is a truly special guitar from Collings — the AT-16, and this particular example has a great history. This is number 61 and was previously owned by Zac Brown of the Zac Brown Band. Instruments like this rarely come available, and this one represents a unique opportunity for both collectors and serious players.

The Collings AT-16 was one of the company’s most ambitious archtop designs, inspired by the legendary 16-inch Gibson L-5 guitars from the 1920s and early 1930s. These were extremely labor-intensive instruments and were never produced in large numbers, making them highly desirable among boutique archtop collectors.

This guitar absolutely captures the spirit of those early L-5s. It is a featherweight at only 4.7 lbs and has the acoustic character, resonance, and responsiveness that made those early archtops so special. The tone is truly exceptional — warm, open, articulate, and incredibly musical.

This example was used by Zac Brown for touring and performance, so it is not mint, but it remains very clean overall and presents beautifully. There are some light pock marks on the top and a few rivet marks on the back, none of which break through the finish. We would classify it as very good condition overall. The frets show almost no wear, and this guitar plays wonderfully.

It features a Lollar Johnny Smith-style pickup system with volume and tone controls mounted to the beautiful ebony pickguard, giving it excellent versatility for both acoustic and amplified applications.

The details on this instrument are exceptional:

• Hand-signed label by Bill Collings

• Highly figured maple back and sides

• Perfect Dark Sunburst finish

• Ebony fingerboard, bridge, and pickguard

• Ivoroid binding throughout

• Waverly tuners

• Bone nut

• Spruce top

This guitar comes complete with a nice hardshell case and a signed COA from Zac Brown and CME (Chicago Music Exchange), documenting its place in Zac Brown’s collection.

A truly exceptional Collings archtop with provenance, rarity, incredible tone, and outstanding craftsmanship.

The Details

• Condition: Very Good

• Originality: Original

• Model: Collings AT-16

• Serial Number: #61

• Provenance: Previously owned by Zac Brown of Zac Brown Band

• Notes: Bill Collings signed label; Zac Brown signed COA; CME collection documentation; rare limited-production archtop

Playability & Sound

This AT-16 is an absolute joy to play. The lightweight construction gives it incredible resonance and responsiveness, with the open, woody character you expect from a great vintage-style archtop. The Lollar Johnny Smith-style pickup adds a beautiful amplified voice while retaining the natural acoustic personality of the instrument.

Specifications

• Brand: Collings

• Model: AT-16

• Year: Custom Production Example

• Top: Spruce

• Back & Sides: Highly Figured Maple

• Finish: Sunburst

• Pickup: Lollar Johnny Smith Style Pickup with Volume & Tone Controls

• Binding: Ivoroid Throughout

• Fingerboard: Ebony

• Bridge: Ebony

• Pickguard: Ebony

• Tuners: Waverly

• Nut Width: 1 11/16"

• Neck Depth: 0.85" (1st Fret) / 0.95" (9th Fret)

• Weight: 4.7 lbs.

• Case: Hardshell Case

• Accessories: Signed COA by Zac Brown and CME

Why Buy From Kansas City Vintage Guitars?

We specialize in high-quality vintage and modern guitars for collectors and serious players alike. With over 25 years in the guitar business, we focus on accurate descriptions, originality, and transparency.

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Thanks from KC Vintage Guitars!