A Fender electric guitar’s worth depends on numerous factors, from its age and model to its condition and rarity; guitarplayers.net is here to help you navigate the exciting world of Fender guitar values. With our comprehensive knowledge and resources, you’ll discover the factors influencing the price of these iconic instruments and find the perfect valuation for your prized possession. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a budding guitarist, let’s explore the landscape of Fender guitar values together.
1. Understanding the Value Factors of a Fender Electric Guitar
What makes one Fender guitar worth more than another? The true worth of a Fender electric guitar is determined by a range of elements that make each guitar unique.
1.1. Year of Manufacture
How does the production year impact a Fender guitar’s price? The year a Fender guitar was manufactured significantly impacts its value, as older, vintage models are often more desirable to collectors.
- Pre-CBS Era (1950-1965): Guitars made before Fender was sold to CBS in 1965 are highly sought after due to their build quality and historical significance. According to research from Vintage Guitar Magazine in July 2023, these guitars often command the highest prices on the vintage market.
- CBS Era (1965-1985): While the CBS era saw some changes in production, certain models from this period remain valuable, particularly those in excellent condition.
- Post-CBS Era (1985-Present): Fender guitars made after the CBS era can also hold significant value, especially limited editions or models with unique features.
1.2. Model Type
Which Fender models are the most valuable? Different Fender models have varying degrees of collectibility and value, with some models being more coveted than others.
- Stratocaster: Known for its versatility and iconic status, the Stratocaster is a favorite among collectors and players alike.
- Telecaster: With its straightforward design and twangy sound, the Telecaster is a classic that has remained popular for decades.
- Precision Bass: The original electric bass guitar, the Precision Bass, is a cornerstone of modern music and highly sought after by bassists.
- Jazz Bass: Offering a more refined tone and comfortable feel, the Jazz Bass is a favorite among jazz and funk bassists.
1.3. Condition
How does the guitar’s condition affect its value? The condition of a Fender guitar plays a crucial role in determining its value, with well-preserved instruments fetching higher prices.
- Mint Condition: Guitars in mint condition, with no visible wear or modifications, are the most valuable.
- Excellent Condition: Instruments in excellent condition may have minor cosmetic flaws but are otherwise in great shape.
- Good Condition: Guitars in good condition show signs of use but are still playable and structurally sound.
- Fair Condition: Instruments in fair condition may have significant wear, cosmetic damage, or require repairs.
- Poor Condition: Guitars in poor condition are heavily worn, damaged, or in need of extensive restoration.
1.4. Rarity
What makes a Fender guitar rare? Rarity is a key factor in determining a Fender guitar’s value, with limited edition models and unique features commanding a premium.
- Limited Editions: Guitars produced in limited quantities are often more valuable due to their exclusivity.
- Custom Colors: Fender guitars finished in custom colors are rarer than those in standard colors, increasing their value.
- Unique Features: Models with unique features, such as special pickups or hardware, can also be more valuable.
- Historical Significance: Guitars with a documented history or connection to famous musicians may be highly prized by collectors.
1.5. Originality
Why is originality important for vintage guitars? The originality of a Fender guitar is crucial for maintaining its value, as modifications and non-original parts can significantly decrease its worth.
- Original Parts: Guitars with all original parts, including pickups, hardware, and finish, are more valuable than those with replacements.
- Factory Specifications: Instruments that adhere to their original factory specifications are more desirable to collectors.
- Modifications: Modifications, such as changed pickups or refinishing, can lower a guitar’s value unless they are period-correct and professionally done.
- Provenance: Guitars with documented provenance, such as original purchase receipts or ownership history, may be more valuable.
1.6. Market Trends
How do market trends influence guitar values? Market trends and demand play a significant role in determining the value of Fender guitars, with prices fluctuating based on collector preferences and economic conditions.
- Collector Demand: High demand for specific models or years can drive up prices on the vintage market.
- Economic Factors: Economic conditions, such as recessions or booms, can impact the prices of collectible guitars.
- Celebrity Endorsements: Guitars associated with famous musicians or used in iconic performances may see a surge in value.
- Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces, such as eBay and Reverb, provide a platform for buyers and sellers to connect, influencing market trends and pricing.
Alt: Iconic Fender Stratocaster electric guitar with sunburst finish.
2. Fender Electric Guitar Value by Model
What are the typical price ranges for different Fender models? To accurately gauge the value of a Fender electric guitar, it is crucial to understand the typical price ranges associated with various models.
2.1. Stratocaster Values
How much is a Fender Stratocaster worth? The Stratocaster is one of the most iconic and popular electric guitars ever made, and its value can vary widely depending on its age, condition, and features.
- Vintage Stratocasters (Pre-1970): These can range from $10,000 to over $100,000 for rare and well-preserved examples.
- CBS Era Stratocasters (1970s): Prices typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on condition and originality.
- American Standard Stratocasters (1980s-Present): These modern classics can be found for $800 to $2,000 in good condition.
- Custom Shop Stratocasters: Hand-built by Fender’s elite luthiers, these can fetch prices from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.
2.2. Telecaster Values
What is the value range of a Fender Telecaster? The Telecaster, known for its simple design and twangy sound, is another highly sought-after Fender model with a wide range of values.
- Vintage Telecasters (Pre-1970): These can range from $15,000 to over $150,000 for exceptionally rare and well-preserved models.
- CBS Era Telecasters (1970s): Prices typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on condition and originality.
- American Standard Telecasters (1980s-Present): These modern workhorses can be found for $900 to $2,500 in good condition.
- Custom Shop Telecasters: Like the Stratocaster, these handcrafted guitars can fetch prices from $3,500 to $12,000 or more.
2.3. Precision Bass Values
How much is a Fender Precision Bass worth? The Precision Bass, the first mass-produced electric bass, holds a special place in music history and has a corresponding range of values.
- Vintage Precision Basses (Pre-1970): These can range from $8,000 to over $80,000 for rare and well-preserved examples.
- CBS Era Precision Basses (1970s): Prices typically range from $2,500 to $7,000, depending on condition and originality.
- American Standard Precision Basses (1980s-Present): These reliable basses can be found for $700 to $1,800 in good condition.
- Custom Shop Precision Basses: Hand-built to exacting standards, these basses can fetch prices from $3,000 to $9,000 or more.
2.4. Jazz Bass Values
What is the typical value of a Fender Jazz Bass? The Jazz Bass, with its sleek design and versatile tone, is a favorite among bassists and collectors, resulting in a range of values.
- Vintage Jazz Basses (Pre-1970): These can range from $9,000 to over $90,000 for rare and well-preserved models.
- CBS Era Jazz Basses (1970s): Prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition and originality.
- American Standard Jazz Basses (1980s-Present): These modern basses can be found for $800 to $2,000 in good condition.
- Custom Shop Jazz Basses: Known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail, these basses can fetch prices from $3,500 to $10,000 or more.
2.5. Other Fender Models
What about the value of less common Fender guitars? Beyond the core Stratocaster, Telecaster, Precision Bass, and Jazz Bass models, Fender has produced a variety of other electric guitars and basses with their own unique values.
- Jaguar: Prices range from $2,000 to $20,000 depending on the year and condition.
- Mustang: Values range from $1,500 to $15,000 depending on the year and condition.
- Duo-Sonic: Prices range from $1,200 to $12,000 depending on the year and condition.
- Musicmaster Bass: Values range from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on the year and condition.
Alt: Classic Fender Telecaster electric guitar from 1952.
3. How to Determine the Value of Your Fender Guitar
What steps can you take to find out how much your Fender is worth? Accurately determining the value of your Fender guitar requires a combination of research, inspection, and expert consultation.
3.1. Identify the Model and Year
How can you identify your Fender guitar’s model and year? The first step in determining the value of your Fender guitar is to identify the model and year of manufacture.
- Serial Number: Locate the serial number, typically found on the headstock or neck plate. Refer to Fender’s official website or a serial number database to determine the year of manufacture.
- Headstock Decal: Examine the headstock decal for logos, model names, and other markings that can help identify the model.
- Body Shape and Features: Compare the body shape, pickup configuration, and other features to reference photos and descriptions of different Fender models.
3.2. Assess the Condition
What aspects of the guitar’s condition should you evaluate? Carefully assess the condition of your Fender guitar, noting any wear, damage, or modifications that may affect its value.
- Finish: Examine the finish for scratches, dings, fading, or discoloration.
- Hardware: Check the hardware for rust, corrosion, or missing parts.
- Electronics: Test the electronics to ensure that the pickups, switches, and knobs are functioning properly.
- Neck and Frets: Inspect the neck for warping, cracks, or excessive wear. Check the frets for wear and levelness.
- Originality: Determine whether all parts are original to the guitar, as non-original parts can decrease its value.
3.3. Research Recent Sales
Where can you find information on recent Fender guitar sales? Research recent sales of similar Fender guitars to get an idea of the current market value.
- Online Marketplaces: Check online marketplaces like eBay and Reverb for completed listings of comparable guitars.
- Auction Houses: Monitor auction houses that specialize in vintage guitars for recent sales data.
- Vintage Guitar Price Guides: Consult vintage guitar price guides, such as those published by Vintage Guitar magazine, for estimated values.
3.4. Consult with Experts
When should you seek an expert appraisal? Consider consulting with vintage guitar experts or appraisers for a professional assessment of your Fender guitar’s value.
- Vintage Guitar Dealers: Contact reputable vintage guitar dealers in your area for an appraisal.
- Appraisal Services: Utilize online appraisal services that specialize in vintage instruments.
- Guitar Technicians: Seek the opinion of experienced guitar technicians who are familiar with vintage instruments.
3.5. Factor in Market Trends
How do current trends impact the value of your guitar? Consider current market trends and demand when determining the value of your Fender guitar.
- Collector Preferences: Research which models and years are currently popular among collectors.
- Economic Conditions: Be aware of how economic conditions may be affecting the vintage guitar market.
- Seasonal Fluctuations: Note that guitar values may fluctuate depending on the time of year.
4. Resources for Fender Guitar Values
Where can you find reliable information on Fender guitar values? There are several resources available to help you research and determine the value of your Fender guitar.
4.1. Online Databases
What online databases can help you identify and value your Fender? Online databases provide a wealth of information on Fender guitars, including serial number lookup tools, model specifications, and historical data.
- Fender’s Official Website: The official Fender website offers resources for dating and identifying Fender instruments.
- Guitar Dater Project: The Guitar Dater Project provides a serial number lookup tool for various guitar brands, including Fender.
- Vintage Guitar Info: Vintage Guitar Info offers detailed information on Fender models, including specifications, production dates, and value estimates.
4.2. Price Guides
Which price guides are most reliable for Fender guitars? Price guides offer estimated values for Fender guitars based on condition, year, and model.
- Vintage Guitar Price Guide: The Vintage Guitar Price Guide is a comprehensive resource for vintage guitar values, updated annually.
- Orion Blue Book: The Orion Blue Book provides pricing information for a wide range of musical instruments, including Fender guitars.
4.3. Online Forums and Communities
How can online communities help you assess your guitar’s value? Online forums and communities provide a platform for guitar enthusiasts to share information, ask questions, and discuss Fender guitar values.
- Fender Forums: The official Fender Forums offer a dedicated space for Fender enthusiasts to connect and share knowledge.
- Strat-Talk: Strat-Talk is a popular online forum for Stratocaster enthusiasts, with discussions on vintage guitars and values.
- Telecaster Discussion Page: The Telecaster Discussion Page is a resource for Telecaster enthusiasts, with forums covering a wide range of topics.
4.4. Books and Publications
What books provide valuable information on Fender guitars? Books and publications offer in-depth information on Fender guitars, including historical data, model specifications, and value estimates.
- 50 Years Of Fender by Tony Bacon: This book provides a comprehensive overview of Fender’s history and evolution.
- The Fender Stratocaster 40th Anniversary Edition by Tony Bacon and Paul Day: This book celebrates the Stratocaster’s legacy with detailed information and photographs.
- The Stratocaster Chronicles by Tom Wheeler: This book explores the Stratocaster’s impact on music and culture.
- The Story Of The Fender Stratocaster by Ray Minhinnett: This book offers a detailed look at the Stratocaster’s design and development.
- Fender – The Sound Heard ‘Round The World by Michael Molenda: This book explores Fender’s global influence on music.
- The Fender Telecaster by A.R. Duchossoir: This book chronicles the Telecaster’s history and evolution.
- The Fender Bass by Klaus Blasquiz: This book explores the history of Fender’s bass guitars.
- The Fender Bass An Illustrated History by Jim Roberts: This book provides a visual history of Fender’s bass guitars.
- How The Fender Bass Changed The World by Jim Roberts: This book examines the impact of Fender’s bass guitars on music.
- The Fender Book – 2nd Edition by Tony Bacon and Paul Day: This book offers a comprehensive guide to Fender guitars and basses.
- The Fender Custom Shop Guitar Gallery by Richard Smith: This book showcases the craftsmanship of Fender’s Custom Shop guitars.
- Fender Classic Moments by Alan di Perna: This book celebrates iconic moments in Fender’s history.
Alt: A pristine white 1950 Fender Esquire, a highly collectible vintage guitar.
5. Dating Fender Guitars Using Serial Numbers
How can serial numbers help you determine the age of your Fender guitar? Dating a Fender guitar using its serial number is a common method, though it can sometimes be complex due to Fender’s serial number schemes.
5.1. Pre-CBS Serial Numbers (1950-1965)
What serial number patterns were used before CBS acquired Fender? Before Fender was sold to CBS in 1965, the serial number system was relatively straightforward.
| SERIAL NUMBERS | PRODUCTION DATES |
|---|---|
| Up to 6000 | 1950 to 1954 |
| Up to 10,000 | 1954 to 1956 |
| 10,000s | 1955 to 1956 |
| 10,000s to 20,000s | 1957 |
| 20,000s to 30,000s | 1958 |
| 30,000s to 40,000s | 1959 |
| 40,000s to 50,000s | 1960 |
| 50,000s to 70,000s | 1961 |
| 60,000s to 90,000s | 1962 |
| 80,000s to 90,000s | 1963 |
| 90,000s up to L10,000s | 1963 |
| L10,000s up to L20,000s | 1963 |
| L20,000s up to L50,000s | 1964 |
| L50,000s up to L90,000s | 1965 |
5.2. CBS Era Serial Numbers (1965-1976)
How did the serial number system change under CBS ownership? After CBS acquired Fender, the serial number system became less consistent, with overlapping numbers and years.
| SERIAL NUMBERS | PRODUCTION DATES |
|---|---|
| L50,000s up to L90,000s | 1965 |
| 100,000s | 1965 |
| 100,000s to 200,000s | 1966 to 1967 |
| 200,000s | 1968 |
| 200,000s to 300,000s | 1969 to 1970 |
| 300,000s | 1971 to 1972 |
| 300,000s to 500,000s | 1973 |
| 400,000s to 500,000s | 1974 to 1975 |
| 500,000s to 700,000s | 1976 |
5.3. USA Made Serial Numbers (1976-Present)
What serial number prefixes and patterns are used on modern USA-made Fenders? The serial number system for USA-made Fender guitars from 1976 to the present includes letter prefixes and number combinations.
| SERIAL NUMBERS | PRODUCTION DATES |
|---|---|
| 76 + 5 DIGITS | 1976 |
| S6 + 5 DIGITS | 1976 |
| S7 + 5 DIGITS | 1977 |
| S8 + 5 DIGITS | 1977 |
| S7 + 5 DIGITS | 1978 |
| S8 + 5 DIGITS | 1978 |
| S9 + 5 DIGITS | 1978 |
| S9 + 5 DIGITS | 1979 |
| E0 + 5 DIGITS | 1979 |
| S9 + 5 DIGITS | 1980 |
| E0 + 5 DIGITS | 1980 |
| E1 + 5 DIGITS | 1980 |
| S9 + 5 DIGITS | 1981 |
| E0 + 5 DIGITS | 1981 |
| E1 + 5 DIGITS | 1981 |
| EI + 5 DIGITS | 1982 |
| E2 + 5 DIGITS | 1982 |
| E3 + 5 DIGITS | 1982 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1982 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E2 + 5 DIGITS | 1983 |
| E3 + 5 DIGITS | 1983 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1983 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E3 + 5 DIGITS | 1984 |
| E4 + 5 DIGITS | 1984 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1984 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E3 + 5 DIGITS | 1985 |
| E4 + 5 DIGITS | 1985 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1985 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1986 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E4 + 5 DIGITS | 1987 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1987 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E4 + 5 DIGITS | 1988 |
| E8 + 5 DIGITS | 1988 |
| V + 4, 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1988 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E8 + 5 DIGITS | 1989 |
| E9 + 5 DIGITS | 1989 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1989 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| E9 + 5 DIGITS | 1990 |
| N9 + 5 DIGITS | 1990 |
| N0 + 5 DIGITS | 1990 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1990 (For U.S. Vintage Series, check neck date for specific year) |
| N0 + 5 DIGITS | 1991 |
| N1 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1991 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1991 |
| N1 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1992 |
| N2 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1992 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1992 |
| N2 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1993 |
| N3 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1993 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1993 |
| N3 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1994 |
| N4 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1994 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1994 |
| N4 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1995 |
| N5 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1995 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1995 |
| N5 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1996 |
| N6 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1996 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1996 |
| N6 + 6 or 6 DIGITS | 1997 |
| N7 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1997 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (U.S. Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1997 |
| N7 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1998 |
| N8 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1998 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series) | 1998 |
| N8 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1999 |
| N9 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 1999 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 1999 |
| N9 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2000 |
| Z0 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2000 |
| DZ0 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (Am. Deluxe) | 2000 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2000 |
| Z0 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2001 |
| Z1 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2001 |
| DZ1 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (Am. Deluxe) | 2001 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2001 |
| Z1 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2002 |
| Z2 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2002 |
| DZ2 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (Am. Deluxe) | 2002 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2002 |
| Z2 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2003 |
| Z3 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2003 |
| DZ3 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Deluxe Series) | 2003 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2003 |
| Z3 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2004 |
| Z4 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2004 |
| DZ4 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (Am. Deluxe) | 2004 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2004 |
| XN4 + 4 Digits | 2004 |
| Z4 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2005 |
| Z5 + 5 or 6 DIGITS | 2005 |
| DZ5 + 5 or 6 DIGITS (Am. Deluxe) | 2005 |
| V + 5 or 6 DIGITS (American Vintage Series except ’52 Telecaster) | 2005 |
| XN5 + 4 Digits | 2005 |
5.4. Other Serial Number Schemes
What if your Fender guitar has an unusual serial number? Fender has used various other serial number schemes over the years, particularly for instruments made in different countries or for special editions.
| NUMBER | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| AMXN + 6 DIGITS | California Series electric guitars and basses, ’97 and ’98 |
| DN + 6 DIGITS | American Deluxe series instruments, ’98 and ’99 |
| NC(XXXXXX) | Squier Strat Bullets (dating unclear) |
| FN(XXXXXX) | US-made guitars and basses destined for the export market. Some may have stayed in the U.S or found their way back |
| I(XXXXXXX) | A limited number of these “I” series guitars were made in ’89 and ’90. Made for the export market and have Made in USA stamped on the heel of the neck. |
| LE(XXXXXX) | Blonde Jazzmasters and Jaguars with Gold hardware made in 1994. Sold as a promotional 3-piece set with a Blonde Deluxe Reverb Amp |
| CN(XXXXXX) VN(XXXXXX) | Korean-made Fender/Squier guitars (dating unclear) |
| CA(XXXXX) | Gold Strat 1981, 82 and 83 |
| CB(XXXXX) | Precision Bass Special from 1981, CB(XXXXX) Gold Jazz Bass from 1982 |
| CC(XXXXX) | Walnut Strat 1981-82-83 |
| CE(XXXXX) | Precision Bass Special from 1981, Black and Gold Tele from 1981-82 |
| CD(XXXXX) | |
| CO(XXXXX) | Precision Bass Special (Walnut) from 1982 |
| GO(XXXXX) | Precision Bass Special (Walnut) from 1982, Gold Strat 1982-83 |
| D(XXXXXX) | Jazz Bass from 1982 |
| SE(XXXXXX) | |
| SN(XXXXXX) | |
| SZ(XXXXXX) | Signature Series Instruments SE8(XXXXX)-’88, SE9(XXXXX)-’89 SN0(XXXXX)-’90, SN1(XXXXX)-’90, SN2(XXXXX)-’92, etc. SZ0(XXXXX)-’00, SZ1(XXXXX)-’01, SZ2(XXXXX)-’02, etc. |
| 3 DIGITS OF 500 | 35TH Anniversary Strat from 1989-1990 |
| G(XXXXXX) | “STRAT” from about 1980, (Gold hardware, 2-position rotary tone switch) |
| 4 DIGITS STAMPED ON BRIDGE PLATE | U.S. ’52 Vintage Telecaster 1982-1988 (Check neck date for specific year) |
| 5 DIGITS STAMPED ON BRIDGE PLATE | U.S. ’52 Vintage Telecaster 1988-present (Check neck date for specific year) |
| T(XXXXXX) | Tribute series instruments |
| C(XXXXXX) | Collectors Series |
| XN(XXXXX) | FSRs and ’52 Teles |
5.5. Checking the Neck Date
What is the significance of the date stamped on the neck of a Fender guitar? For more accurate dating, especially for vintage instruments, it is often necessary to remove the neck and check for a date stamp on the butt end of the heel. If you’re not comfortable doing this, seek help from a professional guitar technician.
*Alt: Close-up of a Fender guitar neck heel showing a stamped date,
