Determining the value of a guitar, especially a vintage instrument, can be complex. Guitar players and collectors often turn to established resources for guidance. Among these, the Blue Book Of Guitar Values and the Vintage Guitar Price Guide stand out. But how accurate are these guides in today’s market? Let’s delve into a comparison to help you understand which resource might be best for valuing your guitar.
The Vintage Guitar Price Guide: An Annual Authority
Since 1989, the Official Vintage Guitar Price Guide, published annually by Vintage Guitar Magazine, has been a go-to resource for guitar valuations. This guide compiles sales data and insights from leading guitar dealers across the country. Its longevity and methodology have made it a respected benchmark in the industry. For guitars in excellent condition, the Vintage Guitar Price Guide often proves to be remarkably accurate. Even experienced dealers rely on this guide, with many purchasing a new edition each year to stay informed about current market values. You can explore the guide further at the Vintage Guitar Price Guide.
Close-up of a Collings 360st electric guitar body, showcasing the details important for guitar valuation.
The Blue Book of Guitar Values: A Digital Database
The Blue Book of Guitar Values offers a different approach as an online subscription service providing access to an extensive database of guitar values. Testing this service reveals it to be a useful and comprehensive resource, covering a vast array of guitar models, even less common ones. While generally accurate, it may sometimes undervalue rare, high-end vintage guitars. The website’s user-friendly interface and broad model coverage make it a convenient alternative to the print guide. If you prefer a digital resource, you can check out the Blue Book of Guitar Values!. However, for overall accuracy, especially with vintage instruments, the Vintage Guitar Price Guide often holds a slight edge.
Detailed view of a 1974 Fender Stratocaster body, highlighting vintage guitar characteristics relevant to pricing guides like the Blue Book of Guitar Values.
Beyond Guides: The Importance of Expert Guitar Appraisal
While both the blue book of guitar values and the Vintage Guitar Price Guide offer valuable insights, accurately valuing a specific guitar requires more than just looking up a model. Numerous factors significantly influence a vintage guitar’s value, including color, originality, provenance, and condition. As experts at Emerald City Guitars emphasize, “with vintage, the details really do matter!” For a truly precise valuation, especially if you are not deeply experienced in the guitar market, seeking a professional appraisal is crucial. At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, we provide free comprehensive appraisals, taking into account all the nuances and details that affect your guitar’s worth. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free assessment of your instrument.
Joe’s Vintage Guitars
47 N Fraser Dr E Mesa, AZ 85203 Phone: (602) 900-6635 Email: [email protected]
