DATE :
Friday, July 25, 2025
1964 Fender Precision Bass: The Final Year of Pre-CBS Excellence
1964 Fender Precision Bass: The Final Year of Pre-CBS Excellence
Why the 1964 Precision Bass Matters
The 1964 Fender Precision Bass represents the absolute pinnacle of Leo Fender's original bass guitar vision—the final year before CBS acquired Fender Musical Instruments in January 1965. These instruments embody everything that made pre-CBS Fender instruments legendary: meticulous hand-craftsmanship, premium materials, and the refined manufacturing processes that had been perfected over a decade of continuous innovation.
What makes 1964 special:
Last year of pre-CBS production with Leo Fender's direct oversight
Refined neck profile after 14 years of Precision Bass evolution
Premium old-growth woods still readily available
Hand-wound pickups with exceptional tonal characteristics
Clay dot inlays and slab rosewood fingerboards (early 1964)
Transition to rosewood veneer boards with pearloid dots (late 1964)
Lighter, more resonant ash and alder bodies with thin nitrocellulose finishes
The most sought-after year among vintage bass collectors
Historical Context: Fender's Golden Era Conclusion
During 1964, Fender Musical Instruments was still operating under Leo Fender's direct supervision, though negotiations with CBS were already underway. This was a period of incredible innovation and refinement at the Fullerton factory, with manufacturing processes that had been honed to perfection after more than a decade of electric bass production.
The Precision Bass had evolved significantly since its 1951 introduction. By 1964, the split-coil humbucking pickup introduced in 1957 had matured into one of the most recognizable bass tones in popular music. The body contours, introduced in 1954, had been refined for optimal player comfort and resonance.
Notable artists were beginning to discover the Precision Bass's potential during this era. James Jamerson at Motown was crafting the foundational bass lines that would define soul music, while session players like Carol Kaye were establishing the Precision as the premier studio bass. The British Invasion bands were also embracing Fender basses, with players like John Entwistle of The Who helping to establish the Precision's reputation for power and reliability.
Current Market Value (2025 Update)
1964 Precision Basses have experienced dramatic appreciation over the past decade, driven by both their historical significance as the final pre-CBS year and their exceptional playing characteristics. The combination of scarcity and legendary status has pushed values to unprecedented levels.
Key Value Factors:
Custom Color Rarity: Only an estimated 3-5% of 1964 Precision Basses left the factory in custom colors
Originality Premium: All-original examples command 40-60% more than refinished instruments
Documentation: Original case, hang tags, or dealer receipts can add 15-20% to value
Condition: The difference between "very good" and "excellent" condition can be $10,000+
Provenance: Instruments with verifiable professional use or celebrity ownership command significant premiums
Important Note: At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium vintage Fender basses. Our expertise in authentication and market knowledge ensures you receive fair market value for your instrument.
Custom Colors: The Ultimate Collectibles
Custom color 1964 Precision Basses represent the holy grail for vintage bass collectors. These special-order finishes were available at an additional cost and required specific dealer ordering procedures, making them exceptionally rare today.
Available Custom Colors in 1964:
Standard Custom Colors (introduced 1960):
Olympic White - Clean, bright finish that ages to cream
Black - Dramatic contrast with white pickguard
Sonic Blue - Vibrant blue that fades beautifully with age
Lake Placid Blue - Deeper, more metallic blue
Burgundy Mist - Deep red with metallic flake
Sherwood Green - Forest green with subtle metallic content
Rare Custom Colors:
Surf Green - Seafoam green, highly sought after
Fiesta Red - Bright orange-red, prone to fading
Shell Pink - Extremely rare, commands highest prices
Foam Green - Very limited production
Custom Color Authentication:
Authentic custom color 1964 Precision Basses typically feature:
Color-coded masking tape in neck pocket or control cavity
Desert Sand undercoat visible in natural wear areas
Original color depth and translucency (modern refinishes appear thicker)
Proper aging patterns consistent with nitrocellulose lacquer
Factory routing and shielding identical to sunburst models
Investment Potential:
Custom color 1964 Precision Basses have consistently outperformed sunburst models in appreciation. Rare colors like Shell Pink and Surf Green have doubled in value over the past five years, while even common custom colors like Olympic White have appreciated 40-50% in the same period.
Detailed Identification Guide
Serial Numbers
1964 Precision Basses typically feature 5-digit serial numbers in the L00001-L20000 range, stamped on the neck plate. However, some late 1964 models may have higher numbers, and serialization can overlap with early 1965 production.
Neck Dating
The most reliable identifier is the pencil-written neck date on the heel of the neck, visible when removed from the body. 1964 necks are marked with notations like "1-64" through "12-64" indicating month and year of manufacture.
Potentiometer Codes
1964 Precision Basses used CTS potentiometers with date codes:
First three digits (137) = CTS manufacturer code
Next two digits (64) = Year of manufacture
Last two digits = Week of manufacture (01-52)
Key Visual Identifiers
Early 1964 (January-May):
Slab rosewood fingerboard (approximately 5mm thick)
Clay dot position markers
"Spaghetti" style headstock logo
Late 1964 (June-December):
Rosewood veneer fingerboard (approximately 3mm thick)
Pearloid dot position markers
Transition logo (some late examples show early "transition" logo style)
Consistent 1964 Features:
Single-layer mint green pickguard (appears white but has greenish tint)
Split-coil humbucking pickup with black fiber covers
Chrome-plated steel bridge with threaded saddles
White plastic pickup cover and control knobs
Ash or alder body (ash more common in blonde finishes)
Hardware Specifications
Bridge: Chrome-plated steel with individual threaded saddles
Tuners: Kluson Deluxe strip tuners with "double-line" Kluson stamp
Strap Buttons: Chrome-plated round buttons
Pickguard Screws: Chrome-plated flat-head screws (10 total)
Control Plate: Chrome-plated with Volume and Tone controls
Detailed Physical Specifications
Dimensions and Weight
Scale Length: 34" (863mm)
Overall Length: 45.5" (1156mm)
Body Width: 12.75" (324mm) at lower bout
Body Thickness: 1.75" (44mm)
Typical Weight: 8.5-9.5 lbs (variations due to wood density)
Neck Specifications
Neck Width at Nut: 1.625" (41.3mm)
Neck Width at 12th Fret: 2.125" (54mm)
Neck Profile: "C" shape, comfortable medium thickness
Fretboard Radius: 7.25" (184mm)
Fret Count: 20 frets
Fret Wire: Small/narrow vintage-style wire
Electronics
Pickup: Split-coil humbucking design with alnico V magnets
Pickup Resistance: Typically 11k-13k ohms total
Wiring: Cloth-covered hookup wire throughout
Shielding: Copper foil shielding in control cavity
Controls: Volume and Tone (both 250k CTS potentiometers)
Tonal Characteristics
The 1964 Precision Bass represents what many consider the definitive Fender bass tone. The combination of premium woods, hand-wound pickups, and vintage electronics creates a sound that has defined popular music for over six decades.
Sound Profile:
Low End: Deep, solid fundamental with excellent note definition
Midrange: Prominent and punchy, cuts through dense mixes effortlessly
High End: Smooth treble response without harshness
Attack: Quick, percussive note attack ideal for rhythm playing
Sustain: Long, even sustain across all four strings
Dynamic Response: Extremely touch-sensitive, responds to playing dynamics
What Makes the Tone Special:
The split-coil pickup design provides natural hum cancellation while maintaining the character of single-coil pickups. The hand-wound coils create slight variations that add harmonic complexity. The nitrocellulose finish allows the wood to breathe and resonate freely, contributing to the instrument's natural acoustic properties.
Comparison to Other Eras:
Compared to later CBS-era Precision Basses, 1964 models typically exhibit:
More dynamic response and touch sensitivity
Better string-to-string balance
More complex harmonic content
Greater resonance and natural sustain
Common Issues & Modifications
When evaluating a 1964 Precision Bass, experienced buyers should be aware of several common issues and modifications that can significantly affect both playability and value.
Typical Problems:
Neck Refinishing: Many vintage necks were refinished to remove wear, significantly reducing value
Pickup Replacement: Original split-coil pickups are sometimes replaced with modern versions
Electronics Modifications: Wiring harnesses and potentiometers frequently replaced
Bridge Modifications: Some basses have had bridges replaced or modified for improved intonation
Fingerboard Issues: Worn frets or fingerboard refinishing is common on heavily played examples
Warning Signs of Refinishes:
Overspray in control cavity or neck pocket
Unnatural color uniformity (vintage finishes show natural aging patterns)
Filled screw holes or nail holes in the body
Paint thickness inconsistent with original nitrocellulose finishes
Modern polyurethane finishes (should be nitrocellulose)
Original Parts That Are Frequently Replaced:
Pickup covers (often replaced due to cracking)
Tuning machines (commonly "upgraded" to modern versions)
Bridge components (saddles and springs wear out)
Control knobs (frequently lost or damaged)
Pickguard (yellowing or cracking leads to replacement)
Evaluation Guidelines:
When assessing condition, prioritize:
Originality of finish and components
Neck stability and playability
Electronics functionality
Overall structural integrity
Documentation and provenance
Ready to sell your vintage Fender? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for a free, expert evaluation. Call (440) 219-3607 or submit photos online for an immediate assessment.
Why Players and Collectors Value This Model
Playing Characteristics:
The 1964 Precision Bass offers an exceptional playing experience that has made it the benchmark for electric bass guitars. The neck profile is comfortable for extended playing sessions, while the body contours reduce fatigue during long performances. The 34" scale length provides proper string tension for optimal tone and intonation.
Collector Appeal:
Historical Significance: Last year of pre-CBS production
Proven Track Record: Used on countless legendary recordings
Scarcity: Limited production numbers, especially in custom colors
Condition Rarity: Finding excellent original examples becomes increasingly difficult
Celebrity Association: Favored by legendary bassists like James Jamerson and Donald "Duck" Dunn
Investment Potential:
Vintage Fender basses have consistently outperformed many traditional investments over the past two decades. 1964 Precision Basses, in particular, have shown remarkable appreciation:
Custom color examples have doubled in value since 2015
Sunburst models have appreciated 60-80% in the same period
Market demand continues to outstrip supply
International collector interest drives prices higher
Musical Legacy:
The 1964 Precision Bass helped define the sound of:
Motown Records (James Jamerson's legendary session work)
British Invasion recordings
Early American soul and R&B
Country music's Nashville Sound era
Jazz recordings of the mid-1960s
Selling Your 1964 Fender Precision Bass
If you own a 1964 Precision Bass, you possess one of the most sought-after vintage bass guitars ever made. Whether it's a sunburst model inherited from a family member or a rare custom color discovered in an attic, these instruments command serious collector attention and premium prices.
Why Choose Edgewater Guitars:
Premium Valuations: We consistently pay 30-40% more than local music stores because we understand the true collector market value of pre-CBS Fender instruments. Our buyers regularly attend major vintage guitar shows and maintain relationships with serious collectors worldwide.
Expert Authentication: Our team includes specialists in pre-CBS Fender identification who can verify originality, detect refinishes, and properly assess condition factors that significantly impact value. We provide detailed documentation of our findings.
Immediate Cash Offers: Unlike consignment sales that can take months, we provide immediate cash payment upon agreement. For high-value instruments like custom color 1964 Precision Basses, we offer same-day payment and can travel to your location for evaluation.
Zero-Hassle Process: We handle all logistics, including:
Professional photography and documentation
Secure packaging and insured shipping
All paperwork and legal requirements
Confidential transactions when requested
Comparison to Other Selling Options:
Local Guitar Shops: Typically offer 40-50% of retail value and may not recognize the specific premium factors that make 1964 models special.
Online Marketplaces: Require extensive time investment, carry fraud risks, and involve significant fees that can reach 15-20% of sale price.
Private Sales: Can be time-consuming and potentially dangerous when dealing with high-value instruments.
Edgewater Advantage: Direct purchase at fair market value with immediate payment and professional handling throughout the process.
Recent Testimonial:
"I inherited my father's 1964 Precision Bass in Olympic White and had no idea of its value. Edgewater not only provided a thorough authentication but paid $15,000 more than the local shop's offer. The entire process was professional and educational." - Robert M., Cleveland, OH
Ready to get started? Call us at (440) 219-3607 or submit photos through our secure online form. We provide free evaluations and can arrange in-person appointments for high-value instruments.
Related Resources
Dating and Authentication Tools:
Additional Vintage Fender Resources:
Expert References:
Gruhn's Guide to Vintage Guitars - Authentication specifications
The Official Vintage Guitar Price Guide 2025 - Current market values
Fender Custom Color Database - Rare finish documentation
Recent Purchase Example
1964 Precision Bass in Surf Green
We recently acquired this exceptional 1964 Precision Bass in the rare Surf Green custom color from a collector in Toledo, Ohio. The instrument retained all original components including the original pickup, electronics, and even the original foam in the case.
Authentication Details:
Original neck date: "8-64"
Matching potentiometer codes confirming August 1964 manufacture
Original Surf Green finish with natural aging and minimal wear
Complete original electronics including cloth-covered wiring
Original case with all case candy
Seller Experience: The seller, a longtime collector, had received multiple offers from guitar shops ranging from $25,000-$30,000. After our comprehensive evaluation, we provided an immediate cash offer of $45,000, recognizing the exceptional originality and rare custom color. The transaction was completed within 48 hours of initial contact.
"I've been collecting vintage Fenders for 30 years, and Edgewater's knowledge and professionalism exceeded my expectations. They immediately recognized details that other buyers missed and paid accordingly." - Michael D., Toledo, OH
This example demonstrates our commitment to recognizing true collector value and providing fair compensation that reflects current market realities.
Conclusion
The 1964 Fender Precision Bass represents the culmination of Leo Fender's bass guitar innovation—the perfect intersection of craftsmanship, materials, and design that has yet to be equaled. Whether in traditional sunburst or rare custom colors, these instruments continue to appreciate in value while remaining supremely playable musical instruments.
For owners considering sale, the current market presents an excellent opportunity. Collector demand remains strong, international interest continues to grow, and finding exceptional original examples becomes increasingly difficult each year.
Contact Edgewater Guitars Today
Serving vintage guitar sellers throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia
Phone: (440) 219-3607
Email: info@edgewaterguitars.com
Online Evaluation: Submit photos through our secure online form
In-Person Appointments: Available for high-value instruments
About the Author: This guide was prepared by the vintage instrument specialists at Edgewater Guitars, drawing on over two decades of experience in pre-CBS Fender authentication and valuation. Our team has evaluated and purchased hundreds of vintage Fender basses, building expertise that ensures accurate identification and fair market pricing for sellers throughout the Midwest.
