Do Stratocasters hold their value?

In fact, most Stratocasters-along with nearly every other electric guitar-will lose quite a bit of value as soon as they leave the music store, money that is never to return. Bottom line, guitars are much better at being good musical instruments than good financial investments.

Are vintage Strats good?

Since its first model year in 1954, the Stratocaster has kept its distinct body shape and notoriety. Most of the vintage Stratocasters considered to be the best were made before 1965. Because of this change, Stratocasters made after 1965 are typically not as valuable as ones made before the takeover.

How much is an old Fender Stratocaster worth?

We have found that 1960’s Fender Stratocasters can range in value from $4,500 to $100,000. There are many factors that go into that valuation and we can assist in finding the actual value of your instrument.

What guitar is a good investment?

If you are looking for a more affordable investment, the team of in-house musical instrument experts recommend looking for a pre-1965 Jazzmaster, Mustang or Jaguar, which are slowly increasing in value as well. A guitar made from Korina wood is like the holy grail for guitar players.

Why are some stratocasters more expensive?

The main reason why a US-made Stratocaster is pricier is because of its superior tone and quality control. Mexican Stratocasters are of great quality as well and with enough time and patience, you’ll be sure to find an excellent MIM Strat.

Are older fenders better?

In sum, one is not better than another; they are different. And the price difference has nothing to do with a difference of quality in the construction or sound but responds to the criteria of ‘pure and hard collecting’.

What is considered a vintage Stratocaster?

However, a common increase in value for standard American made guitar models occurs from the late 60s to the early 70s, thus setting a general date for “vintage” guitars as anything manufactured before 1970.

How much is an original Fender guitar?

The Fender American Original Stratocaster is a very high-end with a starting price of around $2000 for a used model, and $1500 for a good second-hand guitar.

How much did a Fender Stratocaster cost in 1960?

According to an early ’60s Fender pricelist, a non-trem Strat cost $259.50. There was a 5\% up charge for a Custom Color, so this Strat would have been about $272.47 (still $17 less than a sunburst tremolo version).

What is the value of a Fender Stratocaster guitar?

Stratocaster electric guitars cost between $180 and $2500. Fender Stratocasters are the most expensive, ranging from $500-$2500, with the most popular Fender American Professional Stratocaster costing around $1500. Squier Stratocasters are more affordable versions which range from roughly $180-$500.

What is a ’50s Stratocaster?

The American Original ‘50s Stratocaster maintains Fender’s legendary original-era style and ground-breaking tone, while adding modern feel and pickup switching. A period of change, both for Fender and for pop culture as a whole, the 1960s saw the Strat evolve slightly as it grew up.

How much does a Fender American original Stratocaster cost?

From the upgraded electronics to the classic nitrocellulose lacquer finish, the Fender American Original ‘50s Stratocaster is an incredibly playable and beautiful guitar. At and MSRP of $1,949.99 this reissue is pricey but worth every penny.

How important is the finish on a vintage Fender Strat?

Nowhere in the guitar world is finish more important to collectors than with vintage Fenders. These graphs show the breakdown of original finishes within all vintage Strat sales for guitars from the ’60s and from the ’70s. Original non-sunburst finishes are extremely rare for ’50s Strats with insufficient volume to justify their own graph.

Where is the bone nut on a 50s Stratocaster?

It’s a bit more of a hassle to do than when it’s located at the headstock end, but this is more historically accurate. The American Original ’50s Stratocaster is equipped with a bone nut. The neck measures 1.65″ wide at the nut and is 0.920″ thick at the first fret, and an even 1.00″ thick at the 12th fret according to my digital calipers.