Vintage Fender Values

The Fender company was established in 1946 by Leo Fender in Fullerton, California. The first guitars manufactured were the Telecaster (originally named the 'Broadcaster", the Precision Bass (P-Bass), and the popular Stratocaster. These guitars remain among the most popular on the market today.

Some of the well know Fender players include Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jeff Beck. Kurt Cobain, George Harrison, Keith Richards, Steve Miller, Eric Clapton, John Mayer,Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and countless others.

The most valuable Fender Guitars

1950 Fender Broadcaster

1954 Stratocaster

1960 Jazz Bass

1951 Precision Bass

Though you may not have the good fortune to own one of these models, there are many other Fender Guitars that have considerable value.

To determine the value of you Fender guitar, you must know the model and the year of manufacture. There is a site that offers free serial number look ups to determine the year. The site is called "The Guitar Dater Project--Fender Serial Number Decoder. Just do a search for it.

You must also determine whether your guitar is in Original Condition. Any modifications, including tuning keys, pick-ups, bridges, and especially refinishes will lower the value of your Fender.

You need to evaluate the condition of your guitar. Does it look almost new with very little damage, does it look as though it has been played a lot with a few scratches and some fret wear, or is it a complete wreck? The condition of the guitar is extremely important in determining the value.

The amount of demand for the particular year and model will also greatly affect the value. The more people who want the guitar, the more they are willing to pay.

Determining the Value

Once you have the above information in hand, you can get a general idea of the value by searching for your guitar on eBay. There you will be able to find out what people are asking for guitars similar to yours. You can also search for your guitar in the Harmony Central reviews. Most of these reviews mention how much the owner paid for the guitar.

If you want a completely accurate evaluation of your Fender, my advice would be to go to the experts at Blue Book of Guitar Values. You can get an evaluation of one guitar for less than $5.00, or you can subscribe, as I have, so that you can evaluate as many guitars as you want. This has been an invaluable service to me.