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How to sell a vintage guitar online:
Finding out what your guitar is worth

A guide to selling quickly at the best possible price

Step 1: How to sell a vintage guitar online
Step 2: Finding out what your guitar is worth
Step 3: Advertising your guitar for sale

Step 3: Advertising your guitar for sale

It is important you know what you are selling, but equally important you let everyone else know. This is key. Wherever you intend to sell your guitar, be it Ebay, Craigslist, Gumtree or a private guitar classified website, there will invariably be a listing title. Get this wrong and you reduce the likelihood of viewers buying. Leave it out entirely (rather, leave out the keywords for which people search) and you dramatically reduce the number of viewers. Great listing titles will include the make, model, year and maybe other details too. For example
Good: "Vintage Gibson SG Special guitar, 1969 with case" - this will be easily found by all of those buyers looking for a vintage SG Special
OK: "Gibson SG, red" - although this will come up in many searches, it will be swamped by the many thousands of SG listings, all variants, new and old
Bad: "Gibson guitar, rare" - it is difficult to come up in search results with so few specifics.

Use pictures to remove doubt

Close-up images really help demonstrate a guitars condition Taking as many close-up pictures as possible is an enormous help in showing a guitars true condition. The old adage of a picture being worth a thousand words is certainly true here.

The value of a vintage guitar is proportional to its originality. And it is well known that online sellers sometimes hide defects; posting poor quality pictures and claiming "I don't know anything about guitars" or "I'm selling this for a friend"... These tricks are well known, and in most cases will deter buyers. In some cases people will still buy, but assume there to be a problem, and bid accordingly. If you are not hiding anything, you should make this known! And truly the best way to do this is with large-sized, clear, photographs. Show the scratches, dents and wear patches. Show the electronics (and state potentiometer date codes if present) and the underside of pickups. You may also need to pay special attention to potential problem areas typical to that guitar. For example:

Gibson guitars can suffer from a cracked or broken headstock, especially those with a mahogany neck. There is a weak point at thinnest part, behind the truss rod cavity, and many breaks occur at this point. Guitars like the Gibson SG often break where the neck meets the body, or at the tail end of the body around the controls and input jack. A really good repair can be difficult to spot in a bad photograph. You must show these areas when selling a Gibson.

The pickups in a vintage Gibson are crucial for it's sound. You must show that these are original. Usually done by removing them from their routes, and photographing the underside (with patent sticker), and the routes themselves (this also shows whether extra pickups have been added, and that the finish is original.

Hofner guitars often require a neck reset to achieve a playable action This early 1960s Hofner guitar has had a neck reset; a standard procedure for such guitars.

A Hofner may have a high action due to movement on a neck joint, or worse damage from a badly performed reset. Hofner was previously better known as a violin maker, and the hide glues used in violin construction were also used on their guitars. This allows easy neck resetting, but over time they also slip, making a reset a standard procedure for Hofner instruments. However if this has previously been performed badly, it can impact on the value significantly. You must show the heel area and the side of the neck (to show the action) when selling a Hofner.

Fender guitars were designed to be easily bolted together, and parts replaced when necessary. Very many Fenders out there have had components swapped over the years. Naturally buyers want originality, so you have to try and establish this where possible. A Fender neck should have date markings on the body end of the neck. Any serious buyer will want to see this. Also many Fender guitars out there are actually an old neck with a whole load of new parts added. The more places you can show - inside the neck pocket, under the scratchplate etc, the less room there is for confusion.

Guitars in rare or custom finishes are often claimed to be original, but very often have just been refinished. To prove your rare coloured guitar has always been that colour, make a point of showing the serial number stamp - too faint suggests a refin; and underneath the scratchplate - finishes fade over time, but less so in areas not directly exposed to sunlight.

When pictures don't help

Potentiometer codes on a vintage Fender bass guitar If you are unable to clearly capture smaller details, such as potentiometer codes and serial numbers, be sure to include these within your description.

But pictures can't always tell the whole story. Sometimes you just need to state some obvious and some not so obvious facts, especially if you are unable to get decent close-ups, or if you are unwilling to dismantle the guitar.

  • Does it work?
  • Is the finish original
  • What colour is it (different monitors can show images very differently)
  • Does the truss rod nut turn
  • Is the neck straight
  • How high is the action at the twelfth fret (distance between neck and strings)
  • Is there concealed routing under the scratchplate
  • Are the electronics original, and working
  • What are the potentiometer codes

Disclosing a guitars faults may not reduce the amount a potential buyer may bid, as it also tells them that you are honest, knowledgeable seller, hopefully reducing the chances of them getting a nasty surprise when the instrument arrives. This is also simple fairness.

Provenance

For some guitars, most notably the guitars by Fender, but also Gibson and others, copies and forgeries abound. Fake parts or even whole guitars are passed of as original. Cheap Asian factories churn out authentic looking instruments that would only fool a novice. But then there are master fraudsters creating INCREDIBLY accurate guitars - often fitted with real parts. When some of these can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, it is no wonder. One thing these guitars never have is provenance. If you, or you grandfather, have played and loved this guitar for generations, show the pics! Cool old images of the instrument, however grainy, prove it's history. Buyers find these fascinating and will almost certainly add value to the instrument. In fact you should copy these images, and include them with the guitar when you sell. People buying a vintage instrument are also buying a piece of musical history.

Case Candy

Vox case candy from the mid 1960s Case candy is a term for the hang tags, manuals, catalogues and other goodies that came with the guitar when originally sold. The above came with a mid 1960s Italian Vox guitar.

If you are selling the guitar with it's case you should certainly say so, and include pictures. Is the case original? And does it come with case candy? These are the things that came with the guitar: hang tags, price labels, manuals, catalogues, inspection cards, tools, straps and cables. Many guitars came with some or all of these, and having them present and in good condition are definitely a bonus to any buyer. If they are there, photograph them, and include them in your advertisement.

Communicate

Be ready to answer questions. Hopefully you will have included everything in your listing, but if you have not, make sure you answer to the best of your ability. Failure to do so may look like you are concealing something.

Don't write "I'm selling this for a friend", or "I don't know anything about guitars". These are regarded as code for "there's something wrong with this sale, and i'm absolving myself of responsibility".

When to sell

As stated earlier, prices change throughout the year, with January and June-August being the worst times to sell. The fact is, people have less money just after Christmas, and tend to be offline in the Summer months. A good time to sell seems to be November and December, when more people are online, and in a mood for shopping!

In Conclusion

Just because your guitar seems to be worth $5000, don't get disheartened when it does not sell immediately for that amount. There are only so many vintage guitar collectors, and most are a cautious bunch. Also most will not have big piles of cash burning holes in their pockets. To buy your guitar they may need to sell one of their own, or move around funds first. You will have to be patient, and expect to wait weeks, months or even years for the most valuable guitars to sell at the best price. A dealer will no doubt offer you a much lower price in this time, and you can sell to them, but naturally they need to make a living which will be reflected in their offer.

If you want the best return, you will have to be patient. Best to sell because you want to, never because you need to.

Sellers that put a little effort into their listings certainly reap the benefits in the long run!


Vintage guitars for sale

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Vintage Japanese HY- LO Electric Guitar 1960s With Hard Case Single Pickup

Vintage Japanese HY- LO Electric Guitar 1960s With Hard Case Single Pickup

Lilburn, Georgia, 300**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$190

Wonks but has some static in the control knobs, some light scratches and dings, and see pictures for description. Has a vintage leather strap
SELLING AS IS Buyers with less than 10 purchases must pay immediately after winning or their bid will be cancelled. We will not change anyone's address after purchase See photos for more detailed description - ask for more if needed. Selling As Is. Use shipping tab to determine your shipping fee. Ebay may assess sales tax on their end.
Prompt ... more
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1960s SIlvertone Kay 1413 Sunburst Finish Electric Guitar w / OSSC

1960s SIlvertone Kay 1413 Sunburst Finish Electric Guitar w / OSSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$649

1960s SIlvertone Kay 1413 Sunburst Finish Electric Guitar w / OSSC
Located At IVG Burbank
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Sunburst Finish Shows Minimal Playwear
Rosewood Fingerboard
Weight 5lbs 6oz
Nut Width 1 6855 "
Neck Depth At 1st Fret .99 "
Neck Depth At 12th Fret 1 03 "
Comes With Original Softshell Case
... more
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c. 1958 Danelectro Longhorn Baritone Copper Burst w / HSC

c. 1958 Danelectro Longhorn Baritone Copper Burst w / HSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4195

Circa 1958 Danelectro Longhorn Baritone Guitar
This Guitar Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Some Cosmetic Playwear Throughout Including Minor Marks, Dings And Scratches
Finish Sanded From Back Of Neck As Shown
Extra Nut Slot
Added Pickup Switch
Neck Is Straight
Currently Setup With Flatwound Strings And Plays Very Well With Low Action
30" Scale Length
1 66" Nut Width
Neck Depth At 1st Fret: 0 81 "
Neck ... more
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Vintage - Hondo All Star H-703 Electric Guitar MIK (Samick 1983)  #R5706

Vintage - Hondo All Star H-703 Electric Guitar MIK (Samick 1983) #R5706

Pleasant Hill, Missouri, 640**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$289



FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
SINCE 2007
SAME DAY SHIPPING
ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 12PM CST (M-F)
30 DAY RETURN POLICY
WE WANT YOU TO BE HAPPY
Condition Specifics
Local trade. Tunes and plays great. All the electronics work. Neck is straight and smooth playing. Some scratches, scuffs on the black finish. No case or gig bag included. Based on research online, this is deemed to be made by Samick around ... more
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Vintage 1981 Hamer USA Prototype set-neck Electric Guitar VG w / hc

Vintage 1981 Hamer USA Prototype set-neck Electric Guitar VG w / hc

Lubbock, Texas, 794**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2350

Vintage 1981 Hamer USA "Prototype" set-neck Electric Guitar==VG 7 / 10 condition with play wear / ecratches / dings, nice overall appearance==24 3 / 4" scale, 1 9 / 16" nut width, medium-slim C profile, mild fret wear (frets 90% or better), weighs approx. 9 lbs==Includes new hard case==Ships Worldwide
If you are considering a purchase, please take a minute and read our feedback !!!
We strive to achieve 5 star service !! PLEASE contact us if there are ANY problems (SEE RED BELOW)!! THANKS ... more
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all original 1964 Gibson FIREBIRD I Sunburst

all original 1964 Gibson FIREBIRD I Sunburst

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$27900


Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1964 Gibson Firebird I in its original Sunburst finish. It has a great playing neck with great frets. It's all original and 100% complete with the only exception being one small chipped corner of the pickguard. The original hardshell case is included. This Firebird looks great with some nicks + dings, finish checking and other cosmetic wear. There is one filled screw hole near the bottom corner of the pickguard ... more
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1960s Danelectro Convertible Bridge

1960's Danelectro Convertible Bridge

Mustang, Oklahoma, 730**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$59

1960's Danelectro Convertible BridgeHandmade from Rosewood with set screws, Thanks !USA 48 only
... more
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1959 USA SUPRO Ranchero Archtop Guitar PICKUP 9 31K Vintage Original Part

1959 USA SUPRO Ranchero Archtop Guitar PICKUP 9 31K Vintage Original Part

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$425

Nickel Cover, adjustable pole pieces , fingerboard mount , 9??cloth lead wire , normal light vintage wear, reads Strong 9 3 1K on meter ! Original Supro part , thanks for looking!
... more
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39in Electric Guitar H H Pickups Trans Blue for Heavy Rock Music

39in Electric Guitar H H Pickups Trans Blue for Heavy Rock Music

Walton, Kentucky, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$93

Introductions:

The KST 39in electric guitar features a classic C-shaped maple neck and 22 nickel-bronze pins for a great audio experience with comfortable feel and standard tone
The H-H pickup, three-way switch, tone knob, and volume knob accommodate intense rock tones and a wide range of musical styles
Features:

1. H-H Pickup get a deeper, louder and smoother sound compared to cheaper single coil
2. Matte paint finish is extremely wear-resistant and ... more
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1969 Gibson SG Standard

1969 Gibson SG Standard

Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$9775

1969 Gibson SG Standard, Cherry Red, Large guard, EngravedLyre Tail piece with Vibrola, No volute or made in USA, Two Humbuckers, Lightweight, Superb sounding! Like AC / DC, Original hard case
... more
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Vintage 1968 Epiphone Casino E230TD w /  Case - Cherry 080724

Vintage 1968 Epiphone Casino E230TD w / Case - Cherry 080724

Maumee, Ohio, 435**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$6300

This item is in very good condition. There is general wear that is to be expected from a 56 year old instrument. There is a spot of buckle rash on the back. Includes original Gibson hard shell case
... more
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62 - 72  Fender Jaguar Pickguard Vintage 1960s Mint Green Celluloid  USA RI

'62 - '72 Fender Jaguar Pickguard Vintage 1960's Mint Green Celluloid USA RI

Portland, Oregon, 972**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$245

Fender Jaguar celluloid / nitrate mint green pickguard / Will not fit reissues Jaguars Made in the USA / Period correct for 1962 thru 1979Beautiful mint green celluloid with period correct big black celluloid middle ply / line This old reissue is the perfect replacement for your USA JaguarBeautiful tortoise pattern / Period correct wide bevel , truss rod scoopPlease check out the picturesThank you for looking
... more
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Vintage NOS 1969 Telecaster 1 Meg pots Tele

Vintage NOS 1969 Telecaster 1 Meg pots Tele

Coldwater, Michigan, 490**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$399

Vintage NOS 1969 Telecaster 1 Meg pots Tele... more
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Custom Factory LP Style Metallic Silver 6-String High Quality Electric Guitar

Custom Factory LP Style Metallic Silver 6-String High Quality Electric Guitar

Burlington, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$134

Custom Factory LP Style Metallic Silver 6-String High Quality Electric Guitar
Your guitar purchased in the United States will be shipped by UPS or FEDEX, and the delivery time is about 3 to 7 days
About:
My friends, although our store is new, the factory has many years of production experience
We have guitars in stock for all US addresses and we can deliver them right away
Every guitar in our store is an absolutely excellent ensemble guitar, made from some custom branded ... more
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Zenon ZES 60 Zenon 1960s Made In Japan  Reinforced Steel Neck

Zenon ZES 60 Zenon 1960s Made In Japan Reinforced Steel Neck

Newberry, Michigan, 498**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$350

This vintage Zenon ZES 60 guitar is a rare find for collectors and musicians alike. Made in Japan in the 1960s, it features a solid body type and a 6-string configuration, perfect for a right-handed player. The reinforced steel neck adds to its durability, making it a great addition to any collection
With its unique brand and model, this guitar is a must-have for any vintage musical instrument enthusiast. The exact year of manufacture is 1960, adding to its rarity and authenticity. Don't ... more
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1960s Hagstrom VIKING Hollowbody Sunburst made in Sweden

1960's Hagstrom VIKING Hollowbody Sunburst made in Sweden

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1590


Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1960's made in Sweden Hagstrom Viking in its original Sunburst finish. It has a great playing neck with good frets. It's all original and 100% complete. A later soft shell case is included. This Viking is in great shape with minor nicks + dings and other minor cosmetic wear including some blemishes in the finish on the top of the headstock. The treble side of the nut has a small additional notch near the high E ... more
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Vintage White Vester Stage Series Electric Guitar w / gig bag--Plays like butter!

Vintage White Vester Stage Series Electric Guitar w / gig bag--Plays like butter!

Thiensville, Wisconsin, 530**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$329

The Samuel Music company of Effingham, Illinois (founded 1946) decided to launch its own brand of guitars, Vester, in the late 1980s. They were typically manufactured in Southeast Asia. The serial number on this guitar, E735245, indicates that it was made in 1987-1988 by Yen Chang of South Korea. (If you know pianos, you are likely familiar with Yen Chang )
The guitar features two single coils and a splittable humbucker pickup There is a toggle switch for each pickup. The toggles for the ... more
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Classic LP style Headless 6-strings Highest Quality Electric Guitar

Classic LP style Headless 6-strings Highest Quality Electric Guitar

Burlington, New Jersey, 080**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$149

Your guitar purchased in the United States will be shipped by UPS or FEDEX, and the delivery time is about 3 to 7 days
About:
My friends, although our store is new, the factory has many years of production experience
We have guitars in stock for all US addresses and we can deliver them right away
Every guitar in our store is an absolutely excellent ensemble guitar, made from some custom branded electronics and hardware that delivers the best look and sound at an ... more
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Vintage Montaya LP Lawsuit Electric Guitar   #R9889

Vintage Montaya LP Lawsuit Electric Guitar #R9889

Pleasant Hill, Missouri, 640**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$300


FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
SINCE 2007
SAME DAY SHIPPING
ORDERS PLACED BEFORE 12PM CST (M-F)
30 DAY RETURN POLICY
WE WANT YOU TO BE HAPPY
Condition Specifics
Body is rough in a few spots. Tunes and plays. Frets have some dents. Electronics work, but cut out occasionally. Might need the pots cleaned or replaced. No case or gig bag included
ONLINE SPECS FOR REFERENCE ONLY .
Shipping
Orders are shipped worldwide via ... more
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1978 Fender Telecaster Natural w / OHSC

1978 Fender Telecaster Natural w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3495

1978 Fender Telecaster In Natural Finish
This Guitar Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Very Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Finish Shows Light Cosmetic Playwear Including Some Small Dings, Marks, And Sticker Residue On Back
Made In USA
Ash Body
21-Fret Maple Neck With 7 25" Radius And Black Dot Inlays
Gloss Polyurethane Finish
Original Grey Bottom Single-Coil Pickups
3-Saddle Bridge With Steel Barrel Saddles
Sealed 'F' Tuners
Original Frets ... more
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