Vintage Guitar Info Blog

Fender Neck and Body Dates

Unraveling Fender Body Dates:

In the early days of Fender’s iconic models like the Broadcaster and Telecaster, body dates were discreetly tucked under the neck in the neck pocket. However, around 1954-1955, a migration occurred, relocating this date beneath the lead pickup, gaining consistency by 1956. Stratocasters, ever unpredictable, showcased body dates in diverse positions like the rear tremolo cavity or under the middle pickup. Yet, the mid-’60s marked a decline in the use of body dates across all models.

Navigating Fender Neck Chronicles:

From the genesis of solidbody guitars up to 1976, Fender marked their instruments’ temporal journey at the “butt” of the detachable neck. This timeline unfolds as follows:

  • 1950-1954: Handwritten delicately in pencil beneath the truss rod adjustment at the butt, adopting an M-D-YY format and occasionally featuring woodworker initials like “TAD” or “TG.”
  • 1954-1959: Penciled by skilled hands beneath the truss rod adjustment at the butt in an M-YY format.
  • Early 1959: A brief hiatus spurred by a customer complaint, resolved by mid-year and marked by the re-emergence of dates like 6-59.
  • Mid-1959 to March 1962: Handwritten finesse continued beneath the truss rod adjustment at the butt, maintaining the M-YY format.
  • March 1962 to 1965: A new era dawned with an ink stamp, donned in dark blue or red below the truss rod adjustment. The format, “XX MMM-YY W,” decoded with “XX” representing the neck type code.
  • 1966: The introduction of a revamped model number stamping system.
  • 1969: Witnessed the adoption of a fresh neck stamp featuring 6, 7, or 8 digits, expressed in vibrant green ink, concurrently running with the prior format.
  • 1972: Welcomed another transformative phase with an 8-digit neck stamp in green or red ink, harmonizing with the existing format until March 1973.
  • April 1973 to 1980: A decisive shift to the exclusive embrace of the new-style 8-digit code.
  • 1976 to Present: Witnessed a pivot with serial numbers now residing in the peghead decal, occasionally accompanied by a date stamp or pencil mark on the neck butt.
  • 1980: A novel chapter unfurled with the introduction of small adhesive labels featuring Month-Day-Year date stamps in various locations.

Fender’s Enigmatic 1962-1968 Neck Stamp Era:

From April 1962, Fender transitioned from the poetic handwriting of neck butt dates to a stamped chronicle, often adorned with a model code preceding the date. This cryptic code system comprised an array of numerical identifiers attributed to different models, making it a unique historical narrative.

Embarking on the 1969-1980 Odyssey:

A thorough investigation of about 150 Fenders created between 1967 and 1980 revealed an intriguing voyage. With less than half offering legible information, a mosaic of stamped codes, and in some cases, a mere proclamation of the model name like “MUSTANG” in green or red ink on the neck butt. The ambiguity surrounding this era urges caution for owners, as the dataset is relatively small and subject to evolution with the emergence of new information.

Cracking the Code: 1969-1971 Neck Stamps Unveiled:

During this period, decoding the neck stamp required an outward-inward approach. For example, a Telecaster Thinline with the code 3320119B unfolded as follows:

  • B = Neck width code
  • 9 = Year (1969)
  • 11 = Month (November)
  • 3 = Model code for Telecaster

Unveiling the 1972-1980 Neck Stamp Riddles:

The 1972-1980 eight-digit code adopted a semblance of its predecessor, unraveling as a meticulous formula. For instance, a Music Master with the code 49002153 decoded into:

  • 49 = Model code (Musicmaster, Mustang, Bronco)
  • 00 = Neck code (rosewood fingerboard)
  • 21 = Week code (week 21)
  • 5 = Year code (1975)
  • 3 = Day of the week code (Wednesday)

In essence, Fender’s serial codes narrate a captivating story, etching the chronicles of guitar craftsmanship across decades.

About All Good Vintage Guitars

Greetings, fellow music enthusiasts! I’m Jim Anderson , and I’m delighted to share my lifelong intrigue with guitars on this page . I’m a semi-retired IT professional who deals in buying and selling vintage guitars, acquiring some of the most coveted guitars the world has to offer.

My journey into the vintage guitar market is fueled by a genuine passion for both the instrument and the rich history it carries, particularly in the heart of America. Over the years, I have been able to purchase some of the most collectible guitars in existence, each one with its unique story and soulful resonance.

Building connections has been key to my guitar business. I’ve established enduring relationships with famous celebrities and fellow collectors, enriching and creating a vibrant community that shares the same love for these wonders.

If you find yourself with a vintage guitar that’s looking for a new home, consider becoming a part of my story. I’m always on the lookout for exceptional pieces with history, character, and a story to tell. Let’s connect, discuss, and potentially add your vintage guitar to All Good Vintage Guitar’s home.

Join me in celebrating the magic of guitars and the unique narratives they carry. Here’s to the melodies, the history, and the guitars that make our hearts sing.

A Guide to Identifying a Vintage Guitar: Unveiling Musical Treasures

Vintage guitars hold significant historical and artistic value for both musicians and collectors alike. They not only serve as instruments for playing classic melodies but also serve as tangible representations of the craftsmanship and dedication that went into their creation. Whether you are a musician seeking that timeless tone or an enthusiast with an affinity for collectibles, it is imperative to possess the expertise required to identify a vintage guitar. In this blog, we shall delve into the methods for discerning these exquisite relics from the past.

  1. Thorough Research and Documentation: Before delving into the intricacies of vintage guitars, the initial step entails gathering comprehensive information and supporting documents. This includes serial numbers, the brand’s historical background, and any authenticity certificates. Exhaustive online research, examination of archival records, and engagement with fellow guitar enthusiasts in online forums are invaluable resources for this purpose.
  2. Examination of the Headstock Logo: The headstock, positioned at the upper part of the guitar, often harbors clues regarding its vintage status. Changes in the logo design or placement, often due to corporate mergers or other factors, can serve as indicators of the guitar’s manufacturing era. Scrutinizing the font, design, and location of the logo can provide insights into its production timeline.
  3. Deciphering Serial Numbers: Serial numbers on a vintage guitar are akin to cryptic codes, revealing details about its birthdate, place of origin, and lineage within the manufacturer’s production history. Consultation of online guides can assist in deciphering these enigmatic numbers and unveil the guitar’s historical context.
  4. Inspection of Hardware and Components: A close examination of components such as tuners, bridges, and the tailpiece is essential, as vintage guitars underwent physical alterations over time. Furthermore, the choice of wood for the body, neck, and fretboard evolved with different eras, leaving distinctive marks on the instrument’s appearance.
  5. Analyzing the Guitar’s Shape: The guitar’s physical form can provide valuable clues about its production period. By comparing its shape to archival photographs and catalogs from the relevant time frame, one can determine if it aligns with the aesthetics of a specific era.
  6. Electrical Components for Electric Guitars: For electric guitars, the internal components, including pickups, wiring, and controls, are of paramount importance. Different decades saw variations in these elements, leading to distinct tonal characteristics. Understanding these electrical nuances is crucial in dating a vintage electric guitar.
  7. Evaluating Paint and Aging: The guitar’s paint finish can offer insights into its age. Vintage guitars often feature unique paint types that age in distinctive ways. The presence of wear, tear, or specific patterns on the guitar’s surface can provide valuable clues to its age and history.
  8. Playability and Sound Quality: In addition to its age, a vintage guitar should still possess exceptional playability and produce a pleasing sound. Factors such as neck shape, fret condition, and overall tactile experience significantly impact the instrument’s desirability. Vintage guitars also boast distinctive tonal qualities that contribute to their allure.
  9. Seek Expert Opinions: When uncertain about a guitar’s vintage status or value, it is advisable to consult experts in the field. Knowledgeable individuals, including guitar makers, vintage guitar sellers, and appraisers, can offer authoritative assessments and guidance.
  10. Determining Market Value: The worth of a vintage guitar varies based on factors such as rarity and condition. Researching online sales platforms, auction results, and consulting price guides can aid in estimating its monetary value.

Acquiring a vintage guitar is akin to embarking on a musical journey through history. It necessitates meticulous research, attention to detail, and a genuine appreciation for these timeless instruments. By scrutinizing logos, serial numbers, materials, shapes, and other critical elements, enthusiasts can uncover the rich history encapsulated within each vintage guitar.

Rickenbacker late 1950’s and early 1960’s break down

During the late 1950s to early 1960s, Rickenbacker produced several notable electric guitar models that have become highly regarded and sought after by musicians and collectors. Here is a list of some of the key models from that era along with their specifications:

  1. Rickenbacker 325: The 325 model gained fame as the guitar played by John Lennon of The Beatles. It featured a small, symmetrical, double-cutaway body, a 20-fret neck with a rosewood fingerboard, and three “Toaster” single-coil pickups. The guitar had a shorter scale length of 20.75 inches (527 mm) and a distinctive “R” tailpiece.
  2. Rickenbacker 330: The 330 was a semi-hollow body guitar with a double-cutaway design. It had a maple body with a bound body top, back, and fingerboard. The 24-fret neck had a rosewood fingerboard, and it came with either two or three “Toaster” pickups. The 330 model was highly versatile and had a warm, distinctive tone.
  3. Rickenbacker 335: Similar to the 330, the 335 model had a semi-hollow body, but with a single-cutaway design. It featured a 24-fret neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard and either two or three “Toaster” pickups. The 335 offered a broader range of tones compared to the fully hollow 330.
  4. Rickenbacker 360: The 360 was a full-bodied, semi-hollow guitar with a double-cutaway design. It had a 24-fret neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard and two or three “Toaster” pickups. The 360 offered a unique blend of acoustic resonance and electric versatility.
  5. Rickenbacker 4001: The 4001 was a solid-body bass guitar model that gained popularity among bassists of the era. It featured a distinctive “cresting wave” body shape, a 20-fret neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard, and two single-coil pickups. The 4001 was known for its deep, punchy tone and excellent sustain.
  6. Rickenbacker 450: The 450 was a solid-body guitar with a unique “Cresting Wave” body shape and a single-cutaway design. It had a 24-fret neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard and three “Hi-Gain” single-coil pickups. The 450 provided a wide tonal range and was particularly suited for rock and blues.
  7. Rickenbacker 620: Introduced in the late 1960s, the 620 model retained the classic Rickenbacker aesthetic. It had a semi-hollow body with a double-cutaway design, a 21-fret neck with a bound rosewood fingerboard, and two “Hi-Gain” single-coil pickups. The 620 offered enhanced sustain and a brighter, cutting tone.

Please note that specifications and features may vary between different models and years of production. It’s always recommended to consult specific catalogs or reference materials from that era for precise details on each model.

Vintage Gibson Solid Body Guitars: A Nostalgic Journey into Timeless Tones With Photo Gallery

Vintage Gibson solid body guitars are cherished by musicians and collectors alike for their legendary craftsmanship, exceptional tonal characteristics, and historical significance. These instruments, crafted by the renowned Gibson company, have shaped the sound of popular music over several decades. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of vintage Gibson solid body guitars, exploring iconic models and their unique specifications that continue to captivate enthusiasts to this day.

  1. Gibson Les Paul Standard (1952-1960): The Gibson Les Paul Standard, introduced in 1952, is perhaps one of the most iconic vintage solid body guitars ever created. With its single-cutaway mahogany body and carved maple top, it offers a rich and warm tone. Key features of the Les Paul Standard include:
  • Body: Mahogany with a carved maple top
  • Neck: Mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Pickups: P-90 (1952-1957) or PAF humbuckers (1957-1960)
  • Bridge: Tune-o-matic
  • Controls: Two volume and two tone knobs, three-way pickup selector switch
  • Finish: Goldtop, Sunburst, or Custom colors
  1. Gibson SG Standard (1961-present): Originally called the “Les Paul” when introduced in 1961, the Gibson SG Standard quickly became a favorite among rock guitarists due to its sleek design and aggressive tone. Key features of the SG Standard include:
  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: Mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Pickups: PAF humbuckers (early models), Patent Number humbuckers (mid-’60s onwards)
  • Bridge: Tune-o-matic
  • Controls: Two volume and two tone knobs, three-way pickup selector switch
  • Finish: Cherry, Heritage Cherry, Ebony, and more
  1. Gibson Flying V (1958-present): The Gibson Flying V, with its distinctive V-shaped body, broke new ground in guitar design. Although it was not initially embraced by the mainstream, it gained popularity over the years, especially in heavy metal and hard rock genres. Key features of the Flying V include:
  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: Mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Pickups: PAF humbuckers (early models), Dirty Fingers humbuckers (1970s onwards)
  • Bridge: Tune-o-matic
  • Controls: Two volume and one tone knob, three-way pickup selector switch
  • Finish: Classic White, Cherry, Ebony, and more
  1. Gibson Explorer (1958-present): Like the Flying V, the Gibson Explorer debuted in 1958 and boasted an unconventional body shape. Initially overlooked, it eventually gained recognition as a go-to instrument for rock and metal guitarists seeking a unique look and powerful sound. Key features of the Explorer include:
  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: Mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Pickups: PAF humbuckers (early models), Dirty Fingers humbuckers (1970s onwards)
  • Bridge: Tune-o-matic
  • Controls: Two volume and one tone knob, three-way pickup selector switch
  • Finish: Antique Natural, Cherry, Ebony, and more

Vintage Gibson solid body guitars are not just instruments; they are cultural artifacts that have played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music. The Les Paul Standard, SG Standard, Flying V, and Explorer represent a small fraction of the remarkable models created by Gibson over the years. Each guitar exhibits unique tonal characteristics and has its place in music history. Whether you’re a musician, collector

Vintage Fender Solid body Guitars With Photo Gallery

During the 1950s and 1960s, Fender solid-body guitars played a significant role in shaping the landscape of popular music. These iconic instruments revolutionized the electric guitar industry with their innovative designs, impeccable craftsmanship, and unique tonal characteristics. Here is a detailed list and introduction to some of the notable Fender solid-body guitars from that era:

  1. Fender Telecaster (1950): Introduced as the first commercially successful solid-body electric guitar, the Telecaster, also known as the “Tele,” set the standard for simplicity and versatility. With its distinctive single-cutaway ash or alder body, bolt-on maple neck, and two single-coil pickups, the Telecaster became a favorite among country, blues, and rock musicians.
  2. Fender Stratocaster (1954): Building upon the success of the Telecaster, the Stratocaster, or “Strat,” expanded Fender’s innovation with a double-cutaway body design, contoured for enhanced player comfort. The Stratocaster featured three single-coil pickups, a synchronized tremolo system, and a five-way pickup selector, providing a wider range of tones and greater playability. Its timeless design made it a staple in various music genres, including rock, blues, and jazz.
  3. Fender Jazzmaster (1958): Originally designed as Fender’s flagship guitar for jazz musicians, the Jazzmaster found favor among surf rock and alternative rock players in the 1960s. With its offset waist body, dual single-coil pickups, and unique lead/rhythm circuit switching, the Jazzmaster offered a distinct tonal palette and versatile playing experience.
  4. Fender Jaguar (1962): Sharing some design elements with the Jazzmaster, the Jaguar featured a shorter scale length and a unique floating tremolo system. Marketed towards surf and instrumental rock players, it became known for its bright tone, smooth playability, and iconic styling.
  5. Fender Mustang (1964): The Mustang was introduced as a student model, but its compact size and distinctive sound made it popular with alternative rock and punk rock musicians. It featured a short scale length, a dynamic vibrato system, and a versatile switching system with phase and coil-splitting options.

These Fender solid-body guitars from the 1950s and 1960s became synonymous with the golden era of electric guitars. Their enduring designs, craftsmanship, and tonal versatility continue to inspire generations of musicians and make them highly sought after by collectors and players alike.

Gibson Archtop Guitars

Gibson is a name that has become synonymous with quality guitars, and their archtop acoustic models are no exception. These vintage instruments have been a favorite of musicians for decades, and continue to be sought after by collectors and players. Here I have a closer look at some of the most top of the line Gibson archtop acoustic models.

  1. L-5: The Gibson L-5 was first introduced in 1922, and quickly became one of the company’s most iconic instruments. The L-5 was the first guitar to feature f-holes instead of round sound holes, and was also the first Gibson to have a carved top and back. The L-5 was favored by many jazz guitarists, including Wes Montgomery, and is still in production today.
  2. Super 400: The Gibson Super 400 was introduced in 1934 as the company’s top-of-the-line archtop guitar. The Super 400 was a large-bodied instrument, featuring a 18-inch lower bout, and was favored by jazz guitarists such as Freddie Green and Tuck Andress. The Super 400 is still in production today, and is considered by many to be one of the finest archtop guitars ever made.
  3. ES-175: The Gibson ES-175 was introduced in 1949 as a more affordable alternative to the L-5. The ES-175 featured a smaller body size than the L-5, but still had a carved top and back. The ES-175 quickly became popular with jazz guitarists, and was also used by rock and roll pioneers such as Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley.
  4. Johnny Smith: The Gibson Johnny Smith model was introduced in 1961, and was designed in collaboration with jazz guitarist Johnny Smith. The guitar featured a thinner body than previous Gibson archtops, and had a cutaway to allow easier access to the higher frets. The Johnny Smith model was favored by many jazz guitarists, including Pat Metheny and George Benson.
  5. L-7: The Gibson L-7 was introduced in 1932, and was a mid-priced alternative to the L-5. The L-7 had a smaller body than the L-5, but still had a carved top and back. The L-7 was favored by many jazz guitarists, including Charlie Christian and Herb Ellis.

Vintage Gibson archtop acoustic models are some of the most sought-after instruments among collectors and players alike. From the iconic L-5 to the versatile ES-175, these guitars have stood the test of time and continue to inspire musicians around the world. If you’re a fan of jazz or acoustic music, a vintage Gibson archtop is a must-have addition to your collection.

Gibson Transition year of 1964

Around the middle of  1964  major changes occurred. The info below is very useful for dating a Gibson guitar in cases where serial numbers were repeated or unclear.

1. Neck width at the Nut was reduced from 1 11/16 inches to 1 9/16 inches (you will see cases of 1 10/16 inches during this transition year.

2. Most Hardware moved from Nickel plated to Chrome, this included bridges, tuners and tailpieces.

3. Most serial numbers moved from 5 digits to 6 digits.

4.  Kluson Tuners were stamped with 2 lines down the back instead of one line down the center of the back with the words Kluson Deluxe.

5. By 1965 the Stud Tailpiece on the Gibson Es-335, Es-345 and ES-355 were removed and replaced with a Trapeze tailpiece.

There is more information here on the our Guitar identification Page.

 

 

Fender Bass break down 1951 to 1969

1951 

1951 Fender Precision Bass

The Precision bass was the first production run solid body bass released by Fender in late 1951.  The bass was equipped with a one piece maple fretted neck and one single coil pickup. The production color was Blonde. There are two bridge saddles, and the strings are loaded through  back of the body. The body is made of Ash. 


1954 – 1955

1954 and 1955 Precision Bass

Contours are added to the front and back of the body in 1954 , the body edges are more rounded. The bridge saddles are changed to steel. A sunbrust two tone color was introduced in 1955 and a white pickguard in mid 1954. The serial number was moved from the bridge to the 4 bolt plate on the back of the body.



Fender Stratocaster Headstock Logos thru the years in Pictures

Very helpful to verify the Logo on a Stratocater is original and correct for the era of the body.

1954 – 1964 “Spaghetti Logo” Gold Lettering, thin black outline. No Patent numbers until 1961
1962 – mid 1964 Logo Gold Lettering with 3 Patent numbers, 1961 has two Patent Numbers
1964 – Mid 1968 Modern Script “Transition Logo” Gold Lettering
1969 – 1983 CBS bold Back logo

Gibson Headstock Logos thru the years in Pictures

Very Helpful in Dating a Vintage Guitar when Serial number not present or unclear.

Original Slanted Logo “The Gibson” Logo
Late 1920’s not slanted The Gibson Logo
Mid 1930’s thin Gibson Logo
Late 1930’s Thicker Gibson Logo
Slanted mid 1940’s Gibson Logo
Late 1940’s “i” touches the “G” on “Modern” non cursive/script Gibson Logo
Modern Gibson Logo open “b” and “o”
Late 1960’s Gibson Logo around 1969 with no dot over the “i”
Early 1970’s block shaped no dot over the “i” closed “b” and “o” gibson logo

Gibson Factory Order Numbers

Gibson used Factory Order Numbers (FON) on some of their guitars from about 1908 to 1961. Many times you will see both a factory order number and serial number. The FON was stamped for each batch in production and each instrument in the batch during the early stages of the build.

The FON can be very helpful dating the instrument as that might be the only marking. They can also be used together with the serial number to more precisely date the instrument.

Gibson used four different patterns of FON’s through out the years.

FON: 1908-1923
The first FON’s are usually ink-stamped on the neck block inside the body and have of a three to five digit number with no suffix

Alphabetical FON: 1935-1942
A for 1935
B for 1936, and so on
This method stopped around 1942 .

FON after WW II: 1949-1952
After WW II FON’s were hit or miss and not very good for dating or not present on the guitar. When present they were rubber stamped on neck block or on back of the headstock with numbers from 100 to 9999.

Alpha FON: 1952-1961
Around 1952 Gibson went back to the a first letter pattern
The first letter used in
1952 was Z
Y in 1953, etc.
Then lastly Q in 1961 which is very rare to see.

Sell Your Vintage Guitar Tips

Welcome to my blog, where I’ll be sharing valuable tips to help you successfully sell your vintage guitar. To kick things off, let’s discuss some important considerations when engaging with potential buyers. Stay tuned for more insights!

  1. Seek Transparency: A potential red flag is a buyer who hesitates to share essential information about your vintage guitar, such as its manufacturing date, hardware details, and other specifics crucial for a successful sale.
  2. Caution with Examination Requests: Be wary of buyers who insist on receiving your guitar for examination without providing adequate details upfront. It’s akin to someone asking for your valuables without any commitment, and you covering all the associated costs.
  3. Humorous Dismissal: If a buyer casually mentions having too many guitars and dismisses your offer, it might just be a lighthearted remark. After all, who doesn’t have a collection? However, it’s essential to ensure they are genuinely interested in your vintage piece.
  4. Prompt and Genuine Communication: A reliable buyer should respond promptly and engage in meaningful conversations. If you encounter someone who consistently asks nitpicky questions or seems to be slowing down the process, they might be trying to presell your guitar.
  5. Value Assessment: If a buyer insists on seeing the guitar before providing an estimate of its value, exercise caution. A knowledgeable dealer should be able to offer a reasonable estimate based on information like the maker, year, model, condition, and a brief history of the guitar.
  6. Financial Commitment: If a buyer claims to be low on funds and asks for a lengthy waiting period, it’s essential to assess whether they are genuinely committed to the purchase.
  7. Market Knowledge: Be mindful of buyers who seem uninformed about the vintage guitar market and frequently defer to someone else for guidance. A well-informed buyer can contribute to a smoother and more trustworthy transaction.

Stay tuned for more tips on navigating the vintage guitar selling process!

1968 – 1969 Red, Black and Brown Gibson J-45 and B-25 With Photo Gallery

1968 -69 were dark years for Gibson and the Norlin Corporation buy out began. Gibson needed revenue and to use up old parts. Less than perfect tops used to make the J-45 and B-25 were sprayed a solid color of red or black and a few brown . A white screwed down pickguard was used. Many of the instruments were 4 piece tops and marked seconds. Late in 1968 the bridge was reversed with the belly facing down , and the Gibson logo on the pickguard was removed.  There is more  Gibson Acoustic Flattop Model Information here.

Pickguards on Vintage Fender Telecasters

The first Pickguards on the Telecaster were one ply black. The earliest ones were a fiber material then later made of bakelite with 5 holes for screws. In Late 1954 the single ply white pickguard was introduced.

The Telecaster Custom was introduced in 1959 and had a 3 ply white/black/white celluloid pickguard with 5 screw holes. This is also used on custom color Telecasters.  The single ply white pickguard remains standard equipment on the blonde Telecaster.

In mid 1959 all the telecaster pickguards have 8 screw holes.

In mid late 1963 all the telecaster models have the 3 ply white/black/white pickguard, the celluloid “Green Guard” is dropped after 1964 and replaced with plastic.

 

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