REM are offering a reward for the return of guitarist Peter Buck's black Rickenbacker 360 guitar, which was stolen following a concert in Finland.
In a statement on their website, REM said it was taken from the stage after the gig in Helsinki on Tuesday 9 September.
Buck has used the guitar both live and in the studio since the band released their debut EP Chronic Town in 1982.
"Needless to say, this instrument means a great deal to Peter and to REM," the band statement read.
"It is our sincere hope that whoever is responsible for the loss, or whoever has information which can help recover the guitar, will come forward to receive a generous reward, no questions asked."
A few years back, Buck was asked what single guitar he would keep above all others: "It would be the Rickenbacker", he said. "I've been playing it since 1980, on every record we've ever made."
MusicRadar is not sure where the thief hopes to sell the guitar, really - although it's 'just' a stock 360 it would be recognisable to many guitar dealers.
Watch REM in 1983, playing Radio Free Europe.
“Definitely one of the most unique pieces to come through our showroom”: It was left in a nightclub in '74, then “hidden in a closet for decades”, now Mike Bloomfield’s custom-painted 1966 Telecaster is up for sale
NAMM 2025: Latest news, rumours and updates - “Based on the latest information, the 2025 NAMM Show will be able to take place,” say organisers
