Manuel Reyes (1934-2014) is doubtlessly the most famous flamenco guitar maker in Spain at the time of his death. Manuel's stature was such that Luis F. Leal Pinar devoted an entire chapter in "Guitarreros de Andalucia" (2004) to him. Manuel made only about 20 guitars a year. His flamenco guitars were in such demand, and his waiting list was so long, that he stopped taking new orders more than 20 years ago. Since his death, the demand for his guitar has only increased, and ones in this pristine condition are rarely seen. The present owner bought this guitar brand new at The Guitar Shop in Washington, DC in 1976. He writes: 

Steve Spellman had imported it from the Reyes shop in Cordoba and had been saving it for me.  I bought the custom Leaf case at the same time. As a flamenco guitarist since 1957 I can say this guitar is La Primera, the very best I have ever played. All my playing friends were astounded by it. It was played by Carlos Ramos at El Bodegon Restaurant in DC one evening shortly after I bought it. It was played by Mario Escudero in Austin, Texas.  I have played it in public gigs three times. It has the loudest projection of any guitar I've ever played. It has the best flamenco voice also. It produces sharp snappy percussive rasqueado, can play sweetly too, and has a throaty growl when desired. There is not one blemish or ding on it. It is in pristine condition, like new. I am loathe to part with it, but I can no longer play flamenco due to right hand problems, and I never will play the simple music I can still play on that exquisite instrument.

The guitar comes with the Mark Leaf case in which it has been kept since 1976. The case has a black molded composite exterior and is hermetically sealed by a gasket. The interior lining is blue velvet. The handle and all hardware are in perfect condition. It has a generous interior compartment and a built-in hygrometer. The case alone sells for about $500 when one can be found. Production ceased in 2002.