"Paul McCartney's Stolen Guitar Returned After 50 Years: A Remarkable Reunion"
Paul McCartney's original bass guitar, stolen over 50 years ago, has been found and returned after a search led by Höfner and a journalist team. The left-handed Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass, purchased by McCartney in 1961, was used in The Beatles' early years and is now estimated to be worth $12.6 million. The instrument, featured on hits like "Love Me Do" and "Twist and Shout," was stolen in 1972 and recently authenticated and returned to McCartney. The search gained media attention and public assistance, leading to its recovery, and the thief's family eventually returned it to McCartney.