DATE :
Thursday, June 19, 2025
1959 Fender Stratocaster: The Pre-CBS Masterpiece at Its Peak
1959 Fender Stratocaster: The Pre-CBS Masterpiece at Its Peak
The 1959 Fender Stratocaster represents the absolute pinnacle of Leo Fender's revolutionary design—a guitar that had reached full maturity after five years of continuous refinement. Built during the final golden years before CBS's 1965 acquisition, these instruments embody everything that made the pre-CBS era legendary: meticulous craftsmanship, premium materials, and an attention to detail that would soon become economically unfeasible.
What makes the 1959 Stratocaster extraordinary is its perfect timing in guitar history. By 1959, Fender had resolved the early production quirks while still maintaining the hand-crafted quality and premium materials that defined the brand's reputation. These guitars feature the coveted slab rosewood fingerboards, lightweight resonant bodies, and the subtle manufacturing variations that give each instrument its unique character—qualities that would be standardized away in later mass production.
Historical Context: Fender at Its Creative Peak
The Golden Year of Innovation
1959 marked a crucial year for Fender as Leo Fender's company hit its creative and manufacturing stride. The Stratocaster, introduced in 1954, had spent five years being refined and perfected. By 1959, the design had achieved the ideal balance of playability, tone, and visual appeal that would make it the most copied electric guitar design in history.
During this period, Fender was still a relatively small operation where Leo Fender personally oversaw quality control. The company employed master craftsmen like Tadeo Gomez, who hand-shaped necks, and George Fullerton, who supervised final assembly. This hands-on approach resulted in instruments with subtle variations and character that mass production would later eliminate.
Notable Artists and Musical Context
While the Stratocaster wouldn't achieve mainstream recognition until the British Invasion, forward-thinking players were already discovering its potential in 1959. Buddy Holly had been showcasing the Stratocaster's versatility since 1956, and session players like Hank Marvin of The Shadows were beginning to explore its tonal possibilities. The instrument's association with surf music was just beginning, setting the stage for its explosion in popularity during the 1960s.
Importantly, 1959 Stratocasters were being built just as rock and roll was establishing itself as a permanent musical force, making these instruments witnesses to—and participants in—a cultural revolution.
Current Market Value (2025 Update)
Key Value Factors Specific to 1959
Originality Premium: All-original 1959 Stratocasters command 40-60% more than refinished or heavily modified examples. The original nitrocellulose finish, with its natural aging and checking, is particularly valued by collectors.
Slab Rosewood Significance: The thick slab rosewood fingerboard used in 1959 (approximately 4.8mm thick) is considered superior to the veneer boards introduced in late 1962.
Weight Relief: Lighter examples (under 8 pounds) typically command premium prices due to their enhanced resonance and playability.
Documentation Value: Original hardshell cases, hang tags, or sales receipts can add 15-20% to the instrument's value, as they provide crucial provenance documentation.
Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium 1959 Stratocasters, recognizing their investment-grade status.
Detailed Identification Guide
Serial Numbers and Dating
1959 Stratocasters typically feature 5-digit serial numbers ranging from approximately 38000 to 45000, stamped on the back tremolo cover plate. However, Fender's serial number system during this period had overlaps and inconsistencies, making additional verification methods essential.
Neck Dating - The Most Reliable Method
The pencil-written date on the neck heel remains the most accurate dating method. 1959 necks typically show dates written as:
"1-59" through "12-59" (month-year format)
Occasionally "JAN 59" or similar month abbreviations
Some necks may show late 1958 dates but were used on 1959-bodied guitars
Potentiometer Code Verification
1959 Stratocasters used Stackpole potentiometers with specific date codes:
Manufacturer Code: 304 (Stackpole)
Year Code: 58 or 59 (late 1958 through 1959)
Week Code: Two-digit week number
Example: 304 5915 = Stackpole, 1959, 15th week (mid-April 1959)
Visual Identification Features
Slab Rosewood Fingerboard: The thick, dark Brazilian rosewood board is a defining characteristic. It should show natural aging with possible light compression marks behind the frets.
Clay Dot Inlays: Genuine clay dots, not plastic, with a slightly irregular, handmade appearance and natural aging.
Headstock Logo: The classic "spaghetti" style Fender logo with two patent numbers underneath: "2,573,254" and "2,784,631."
Pickguard: Single-layer mint green celluloid that appears white but shows a subtle greenish tint, especially around the edges.
Hardware Specifications:
Kluson single-line tuners with plastic buttons
Chrome-plated steel saddles on the tremolo bridge
White plastic pickup covers, knobs, and tremolo tip
11-hole white plastic pickguard
Detailed Physical Specifications
Body Construction and Dimensions
Body Wood: Premium alder (Northern California coastal alder preferred) selected for light weight and resonant qualities. Some examples may feature ash bodies, particularly in blonde/white finishes.
Body Weight: Typically 4.2-4.8 pounds for the body alone, contributing to overall guitar weights of 7.5-8.5 pounds.
Body Dimensions:
Length: 17.5 inches
Width: 12.75 inches
Thickness: 1.75 inches
Neck Specifications
Neck Profile: The classic "C" shape with subtle variations—early 1959 necks tend to be slightly fuller than later examples.
Nut Width: 1-5/8 inches (1.625")
Fretboard Radius: 7.25 inches
Scale Length: 25.5 inches
Fret Wire: Narrow/low profile frets, often showing wear on played examples
Neck Wood: One-piece maple neck with slab rosewood fingerboard glued on top
Electronic Specifications
Pickups: Three single-coil pickups with approximately 5.8-6.2k ohms resistance. Coils wound with formvar-insulated wire and featuring staggered Alnico 5 rod magnets.
Wiring: Original cloth-covered wire throughout, with ceramic disc capacitors (.05 microfarad) and carbon composition resistors.
Controls: Three-way pickup selector switch, master volume, and two tone controls (middle and neck pickup).
Output Jack: Standard 1/4" jack mounted on the front edge of the body.
Tonal Characteristics
The Classic 1959 Sound
The 1959 Stratocaster produces what many consider the definitive Stratocaster tone—bright, articulate, and dynamically responsive. The combination of premium alder body wood, slab rosewood fingerboard, and original single-coil pickups creates a sound that's both cutting and musical.
Position 1 (Bridge): Bright, snappy attack perfect for lead lines and rhythm work. The bridge pickup's clarity cuts through dense mixes while maintaining musical warmth.
Position 2 (Bridge/Middle): The famous "quack" tone that would become synonymous with surf music and later, country music. This out-of-phase combination offers unique harmonic content.
Position 3 (Middle): Balanced and smooth, ideal for rhythm guitar work and clean tones. The middle pickup's position provides even string response.
Position 4 (Middle/Neck): Warm and full, excellent for jazz-influenced playing and smooth lead tones.
Position 5 (Neck): Rich and thick, approaching humbucker territory while maintaining single-coil clarity.
Construction Impact on Tone
The slab rosewood fingerboard contributes significantly to the 1959's tonal character, providing warmth and complexity that veneer boards can't match. The premium alder body wood, selected for consistent grain and light weight, offers excellent resonance without unwanted overtones.
The original nitrocellulose finish, now aged and checked, allows the wood to breathe and resonate more freely than modern polyurethane finishes, contributing to the instrument's organic, living sound.
Common Issues & Modifications
Typical Condition Concerns
When evaluating a 1959 Stratocaster, experienced buyers look for these common issues:
Finish Checking and Wear: Natural finish checking is expected and often desired. However, distinguish between natural aging and impact damage. Small dings and belt buckle scratches actually add to authenticity.
Neck Pocket Fit: Check for gaps or shims in the neck pocket. Some shimming was done at the factory, but excessive gaps may indicate neck angle problems.
Fret Wear: Most 65-year-old guitars show fret wear. Original narrow frets that retain adequate height are preferred over replacement frets, even if showing wear.
Tremolo Block Modifications: Some players added heavier tremolo blocks for increased sustain. Original blocks weigh approximately 200 grams.
Value-Affecting Modifications
Refinishing: Perhaps the most value-destroying modification. Original finish, even with significant wear, is always preferred. Refinished 1959 Stratocasters typically sell for 50-70% less than original finish examples.
Replaced Tuners: Original Kluson tuners are frequently replaced with modern locking tuners. While this may improve functionality, it significantly impacts collector value.
Pickup Modifications: Replaced pickups, even with high-quality aftermarket units, reduce value. Original pickups with their distinctive covers and mounting rings are essential for maximum value.
Electronics Rewiring: Modern capacitors, CTS potentiometers, or modified wiring reduce authenticity. Original cloth-covered wire and ceramic disc capacitors are preferred.
Authentication Red Flags
Refinished Examples: Look for overspray in cavities, filled screw holes, or color inconsistency. Original finishes show natural age patterns and wear.
Converted Right-Handed Guitars: Some left-handed 1959 Stratocasters are actually converted right-handed instruments. Check for filled and re-drilled control cavity holes.
Assembled from Parts: "Partscasters" built from period-correct parts can fool casual observers. Verify that all date codes align and that wear patterns appear natural and consistent.
Why Players and Collectors Value the 1959 Stratocaster
Playing Characteristics
The 1959 Stratocaster offers a playing experience that many consider the gold standard for electric guitars. The slim "C" neck profile provides comfort for both rhythm and lead playing, while the 7.25" fretboard radius allows for easy chord formation and comfortable bending.
The original frets, though lower than modern standards, provide excellent intonation and a distinctive feel that influences playing style. Many professional players specifically seek out original narrow frets for their musical response.
Collector Appeal
Historical Significance: As instruments from the final golden years of the pre-CBS era, 1959 Stratocasters represent Fender at its creative and manufacturing peak.
Investment Potential: These guitars have consistently outperformed traditional investments, with average annual appreciation of 8-12% over the past two decades.
Finite Supply: With only approximately 8,000-10,000 Stratocasters produced in 1959, and considering those lost to damage, modification, or refinishing, truly original examples become rarer each year.
Cultural Impact: The 1959 Stratocaster witnessed the birth of rock and roll and would soon become the weapon of choice for guitar heroes worldwide.
The Romance of Ownership
Beyond monetary considerations, owning a 1959 Stratocaster connects players to guitar history. These instruments were built when Leo Fender himself walked the factory floor, when each guitar received individual attention, and when quality took precedence over quantity.
Selling Your 1959 Fender Stratocaster
Why Choose Edgewater Guitars
If you own a 1959 Stratocaster, you possess one of the most sought-after electric guitars ever made. At Edgewater Guitars, we understand both the monetary and emotional value of these instruments, and we're committed to providing:
Premium Valuations: Our extensive knowledge of 1959 Stratocaster values ensures you receive fair market price—typically 30-40% higher than local guitar shops who may not fully appreciate these instruments' significance.
Expert Authentication: Our team can verify originality, date components, and assess condition factors that significantly impact value.
Immediate Cash Offers: No consignment fees, no waiting for the right buyer. We provide immediate cash offers for qualified instruments.
White-Glove Service: For high-value instruments like 1959 Stratocasters, we provide in-person evaluation, secure transportation, and discrete transactions.
Transparent Process: We explain our valuation methodology and provide detailed documentation of our findings.
Selling Options Comparison
Private Sale Challenges:
Authenticating serious buyers from tire-kickers
Security concerns when showing high-value instruments
Time investment in photographing, listing, and showing
Payment security and fraud protection
No recourse if buyer discovers issues later
Guitar Shop Limitations:
Limited expertise in vintage Fender authentication
Lower offers due to retail markup requirements
Limited customer base for high-end instruments
Potential for misidentification of rare features
Edgewater Advantages:
Immediate recognition of rare features and options
Direct purchase eliminating retail markup
Expert authentication preventing costly mistakes
Secure, professional transaction process
Established buyer network for premium instruments
Ready to discover what your 1959 Stratocaster is worth? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation evaluation at (440) 219-3607.
Related Resources
Authentication and Dating Guides
Related Vintage Fender Content
Recent Purchase Example
Case Study: 1959 Sunburst Stratocaster from Toledo
We recently acquired an exceptional 1959 Stratocaster in original Sunburst finish from a collector in Toledo, Ohio. The instrument retained its original slab rosewood fingerboard, matching pot codes, and showed beautiful natural aging throughout its nitrocellulose finish.
The seller had inherited the guitar from his father, a professional musician who purchased it new in 1959. Complete with its original tweed hardshell case and hang tags, this instrument represented exactly the type of documented, original example that serious collectors seek.
Our initial phone consultation revealed the guitar's potential significance, and we arranged an in-person evaluation within 48 hours. After thorough authentication and condition assessment, we presented an immediate cash offer that exceeded the seller's expectations by more than $3,000 compared to quotes from local music stores.
The seller later commented: "I was amazed by Edgewater's knowledge and professionalism. They understood the guitar's history and significance in a way that local shops simply couldn't match. The process was completely hassle-free, and I felt confident that my father's guitar went to people who truly appreciated it."
This transaction exemplifies our commitment to fair valuations, expert service, and treating each vintage instrument with the respect it deserves.
Your 1959 Stratocaster Deserves Expert Evaluation
Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for significant instruments like 1959 Stratocasters, providing secure, professional evaluations in the comfort of your home.
Whether you're downsizing your collection, settling an estate, or simply curious about your guitar's current value, our team of experts is ready to help. With decades of combined experience in vintage Fender authentication and valuation, we understand the subtle details that determine these instruments' true worth.
Contact Edgewater Guitars today:
Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Online Evaluation: Get Your Free Quote
Don't trust your 1959 Stratocaster to anyone less than experts. Contact us today for your free, confidential evaluation.
About the Author: Our team of vintage guitar experts has over 20 years of combined experience in buying, selling, and authenticating pre-CBS Fender instruments. We're active members of the vintage guitar community and regularly contribute to industry publications on authentication and valuation topics.
