Vintage Guitars FAQs

The most frequently questions we get asked about Vintage Guitars, and the answers...

A vintage guitar is an older guitar, usually made before 1980 and  is usually sought after by musicians and collectors. A Vintage guitar’s age, its tonal quality, its appearance, or its historical significance influence it’ value and collectibility. 

Yes, currently they are. Vintage guitars from the 1950s–1970s, especially Fender and Gibson models, have historically provided consistent returns. A high level vintage guitar investment should be in good condition and well maintained, however modified or refinished ones can also be good value and will retain their investment status. You can research the value of a vintage guitar by searching for similar models on Google or eBay, or by consulting the Blue Book of Guitar Values or Vintage Guitar Magazine’s Price Guide.

Yes – Australian Vintage guitars are considered good investments and can be a great option for local investors. Maton guitars in particular have been recognised, along with Maton’s subsidary brand Alver. Other early pioneers in Australian guitar include Pacific, Wayne and JMG.  In more recent decades  Australian luthiers Greg Smallman, Bryan DeGruchy and Jim Redgate have a signficant following. Early Australian valve amps by Moody, Maxim, Goldentone and Strauss are also of interest to players and collectors.

A vintage guitar’s value is determined by a number of factors, including its condition, rarity, age, and provenance.
A guitar in mint condition with its original case and parts is most valuable. Even minor repairs or modifications can reduce its value. A refinished guitar is often worth half as much as a comparable guitar with its original finish.

  • Rarity – Guitars that are rare or in high demand are more valuable. However, some specialty collectors may pay more for a guitar that fills a gap in their collection. 
  • Provenance – Guitars that have been owned by notable players or have historical significance are worth more. For example, Jimi Hendrix’s charred Stratocaster sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
 
  • Original parts – The originality of a guitar’s parts can affect its value. Some replaced parts may have a more negative impact than others. 
 
  • Finish – A rare custom color can be worth 50% more than a standard finish.

While you can research online, it’s best to get a professional appraisal from someone who is experienced with vintage guitars. 

There are a number of factors to consider when buying a Vintage Guitar locally or looking for something overseas. These include:

  • Availability – the instrument you are looking for may be in short supply locally
  • Import costs – There are additional cost considerations when buying overseas, customs costs, exchange rates and shipping. 
  • Import Calculator – Purchase Cost (converted to Aus Dollars) x 5% (Customs Fee) + Shipping Fee x 10% GST = Your final Cost

As well as running a Vintage Guitar business, we are also collectors and players. We are only too happy to provide advice, help you with your Vintage Guitar questions etc. We also sell, consign and locate vintage guitars for our clients. Call us today for a friendly chat.