I started on acoustic (hmm...34 years ago...egad), then got an electric after about 5 years. It depends on what he wants to do/learn. If he wants to play rock, then get him an electric and a headphone amp. If he wants to play acoustic on the beach to serenade chicks, then get an acoustic. Either way you can get a servicable guitar for under $200. But if he doesn't want to learn, he won't. And if he really wants to play an electric and you get him an acoustic, it will likely sit untouched, then you'll need to sell the guitar at a loss.
Hmmm...I'll send you specs on a nice acoustic to buy, then when he gives it up you can sell it to me for pennies on the dollar
