Anyone can sell you an old guitar. What matters is knowing whether it’s right. This collection is our selection of vintage electric guitars, and every one has been looked over by people who have spent 30+ years handling, restoring, and evaluating them. We check the pots, the pickups, the finish, the neck, and the hardware, and we tell you what we find.
The 1950s. This is where the electric guitar found its voice. Early Fender Telecasters and Stratocasters, Gibson Les Pauls and hollowbodies, and Gretsch models with that unmistakable twang. They are the blueprints for nearly everything built since, and the guitars most collectors dream about.
The 1960s. The decade of British Invasion jangle, surf reverb, and psychedelic experimentation. Think Rickenbacker’s chiming 12-strings and 360s, Fender’s Jazzmasters and Jaguars, and Gibson’s SGs and ES-335s. This is the era that defined how rock guitar looks and sounds.
The 1970s. Heavier, louder, and often undervalued. These guitars are where many players find real vintage character at a more accessible price, and the best ones are every bit as playable as their older siblings.
Vintage is only worth buying if it’s honest. We disclose refinishes, replaced pickups and parts, neck repairs, and anything else that affects authenticity or value, because a guitar’s story matters as much as its sound. If you’re trying to date a guitar of your own, our serial number lookup covers Fender, Gibson and other makers and is a good place to start.
Want something you can play every night without worrying about the price? Browse our used electric guitars. Looking for a particular model or year? Contact us and we’ll keep an eye out for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a vintage guitar is a good investment versus just a good player’s instrument?
Investment-grade vintage guitars are typically all-original, well documented and from a desirable production era for that model, such as pre-CBS Fenders or pre-Norlin Gibsons. A guitar that has been refinished, has replaced electronics or is from a less collectible run may still be an excellent instrument to play, just less likely to appreciate the way a pristine original would.
Does a refinish or replaced part ruin a vintage guitar?
It lowers the collector value, but it doesn’t make the guitar bad. A modified guitar can be a great player at a lower price. What matters is knowing about it before you buy, which is why we disclose refinishes, replaced pickups and parts, and neck repairs in every listing.
Do you offer financing or layaway on higher-value instruments?
Reach out to us directly to discuss options for higher-value pieces. Availability can depend on the specific instrument, so it’s best to ask rather than assume a standard policy applies.
Do you ship guitars internationally, and how are they insured?
Yes. We ship internationally, and every instrument is insured in transit and packed carefully. Import duties and taxes are the buyer’s responsibility and vary by destination.
What’s included in a professional setup before shipping?
Every guitar receives a full setup, including action, intonation and truss rod adjustment, plus fresh strings, so it’s playable straight out of the case. We list the string gauge used and the action specs.
Can I trade my current guitar toward a purchase?
Yes. We accept trades toward any instrument in our inventory. Send us details and photos of your guitar and we’ll provide a trade valuation. You can use our Sell Your Vintage Guitar form to make it easy.
