Fender Mustang Guitars: The Complete Collector's Guide to America's Underground Legend

The Fender Mustang represents one of the most undervalued and misunderstood guitars in Fender's storied history. Originally designed as Leo Fender's vision for the perfect student guitar, the Mustang has evolved into a cult classic coveted by collectors, indie musicians, and vintage guitar enthusiasts worldwide. From its introduction in 1964 through its various reissues and modifications, the Fender Mustang tells a fascinating story of innovation, practicality, and eventual recognition as a serious musical instrument.

What makes the Fender Mustang special extends far beyond its compact 24-inch scale length and distinctive switching system. These guitars represent Leo Fender's continued innovation during the pre-CBS era, featuring unique design elements that wouldn't appear on other Fender models for decades. The Mustang's combination of short scale playability, innovative tremolo system, and distinctive tone has made it the secret weapon of everyone from underground punk pioneers to Grammy-winning indie artists.

Historical Development and Significance

The Student Series Vision (1964-1965)

Leo Fender introduced the Mustang in 1964 as part of his comprehensive "student" guitar line, alongside the Musicmaster and Duo-Sonic. However, calling the Mustang merely a student guitar significantly understates Leo's ambitious vision. The Mustang incorporated several revolutionary features that demonstrated Fender's commitment to innovation even as the CBS acquisition loomed on the horizon.

The original Mustang featured Fender's first floating tremolo system—a sophisticated vibrato mechanism that allowed for both up and down pitch bending, decades before Floyd Rose systems became standard. This tremolo, combined with the guitar's short 24-inch scale length, created an instrument that was incredibly expressive and easy to play, though it would take years for musicians to fully appreciate these qualities.

During 1964, Fender was still operating under Leo Fender's direct influence, ensuring that even "student" instruments received the same attention to detail and quality construction as the company's flagship models. The Mustang featured the same nitrocellulose finishes, quality hardware, and precision manufacturing that characterized pre-CBS Fenders.

The CBS Era Evolution (1965-1981)

When CBS acquired Fender in early 1965, the Mustang continued production with gradual modifications that reflected the company's evolving manufacturing processes. The CBS era Mustangs, particularly those from 1965-1969, maintain much of the original quality while incorporating subtle improvements to the tremolo system and electronics.

Significant changes during the CBS period included:

• Introduction of competition stripes in 1969 (inspired by racing culture)

• Modification of the tremolo arm design for improved stability

• Changes to pickup specifications and wiring harnesses

• Introduction of additional color options including Competition Orange and Competition Burgundy

The 1970s saw the Mustang's popularity decline as rock music moved toward heavier sounds and longer scale guitars. However, this period produced some of the most interesting Mustang variations, including the short-lived Mustang Bass and various pickup configurations that wouldn't reappear until modern reissues.

Discontinuation and Underground Discovery (1981-1990)

Fender discontinued the original Mustang in 1981, marking the end of nearly two decades of continuous production. However, this discontinuation coincided with the guitar's discovery by underground musicians who appreciated its unique tonal qualities and unconventional aesthetics.

The 1980s punk and alternative rock scenes embraced the Mustang's raw, aggressive tone and distinctive visual appeal. Musicians like Sonic Youth's Thurston Moore and various SST Records artists began using Mustangs specifically for their ability to produce controlled feedback and unusual sounds through the tremolo system.

Detailed Identification and Authentication Guide

Serial Number Dating

Fender Mustang serial numbers follow the standard Fender dating conventions, but several specific details apply to Mustang identification:

1964 Mustangs:

• Serial numbers typically L20000-L40000 range

• Neck plates with "FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS" and patent numbers

• Serial numbers stamped on neck plate (not body)

1965-1976 Mustangs:

• Follow standard Fender "F" series numbering

• Serial numbers range from approximately 100000-500000

• Transition to larger "F" logo occurs during this period

1976-1981 Mustangs:

• Serial numbers with "S" prefix indicating 1970s production

• Some overlap with "7" and "8" prefix numbers

• Quality control stamps become more common in control cavities

Neck Dating and Specifications

Mustang necks provide the most reliable dating information through pencil markings on the heel:

Pre-CBS Neck Dates (1964-1965):

• Hand-written dates in MM-YY format

• Often include inspector initials

• Neck profiles consistently measure .82" at 1st fret, .92" at 12th fret

CBS Era Neck Dates (1966-1981):

• Dating format remains consistent through 1973

• After 1973, some necks show month/day/year format

• Neck profiles gradually increase in thickness through the 1970s

Hardware and Electronics Evolution

Tremolo System Identification: The Mustang's floating tremolo system underwent several modifications that help with dating:

• 1964-1966: Original "Dynamic Vibrato" with specific arm angle

• 1967-1975: Modified tremolo with improved spring tension

• 1976-1981: Final tremolo design with updated bridge posts

Pickup Evolution:

• 1964-1967: Single-coil pickups with staggered pole pieces

• 1968-1975: Modified pickup specifications with different magnet types

• 1976-1981: Updated pickup designs with higher output

Switching System: The Mustang's unique switching system remained largely unchanged:

• Phase switches for each pickup (in/out of phase)

• Three-way selector switch (neck/both/bridge)

• Individual on/off switches for each pickup

Finish Authentication and Custom Colors

Standard Finishes:

• 3-Color Sunburst (most common throughout production)

• Olympic White (available throughout production)

• Lake Placid Blue (1965-1975)

• Dakota Red (1964-1969)

Competition Series (1969-1975):

• Competition Orange with Burgundy stripes

• Competition Burgundy with Orange stripes

• These models command significant premiums and are frequently counterfeited

Custom Color Authentication: Authentic custom colors show specific characteristics:

• Undercoats visible in chips or cavities

• Proper color depth and saturation for nitrocellulose

• Matching headstock faces on most custom colors

• Period-appropriate color codes in body cavities

Physical Specifications and Technical Details

Scale Length and Dimensions

The Mustang's 24-inch scale length defines its playing characteristics:

• Scale Length: 24 inches (610mm) - shorter than standard Fender 25.5"

• Overall Length: Approximately 38.5 inches

• Body Width: 12.5 inches at lower bout

• Body Thickness: 1.625 inches (standard for all years)

• Weight Range: 6.5-7.5 lbs (significantly lighter than Stratocasters)

Neck Specifications by Era

1964-1969 Necks:

• Profile: "C" shape, relatively slim

• Width at Nut: 1.625 inches (41.3mm)

• Width at 12th Fret: 2.0625 inches (52.4mm)

• Fretboard Radius: 7.25 inches

• Frets: 22, small wire typical of period

1970-1981 Necks:

• Profile: Gradually increased in thickness

• Width at Nut: Remained consistent at 1.625 inches

• Fretboard Material: Rosewood standard, occasional maple

• Inlays: Clay dots throughout production (pearl dots on some late models)

Body Construction and Wood Selection

Body Construction:

• Wood: Primarily alder, some ash examples exist

• Construction: Single piece body construction standard

• Contouring: Subtle arm and belly contours

• Finish: Nitrocellulose lacquer throughout original production

Pickup Cavities:

• Routed for single-coil pickups

• Specific routing patterns help identify authentic examples

• Control cavity shows dating stamps and wire routing

Hardware Specifications

Bridge and Tremolo:

• Unique floating tremolo system with individual string saddles

• Chrome-plated throughout production

• Tremolo arm locks into bushing (unlike Stratocaster)

• Six individual saddles adjustable for intonation and height

Tuning Machines:

• Kluson single-line tuners (1964-1967)

• Kluson "F" logo tuners (1968-1975)

• Schaller tuners on some late models (1976-1981)

Electronics:

• Two single-coil pickups with individual phase switches

• Master volume and tone controls

• Unique switching matrix allowing multiple pickup combinations

Tonal Characteristics and Musical Applications

The Mustang Sound Profile

The Fender Mustang's tonal character results from several unique design elements working together:

Scale Length Impact: The 24-inch scale length creates several distinctive tonal qualities:

• Reduced string tension produces a "saggy" feel that many players find expressive

• Enhanced harmonic content, particularly in the midrange frequencies

• Natural compression that makes single notes sound fuller

• Easier string bending with less finger strength required

Pickup Configuration and Phase Switching: The Mustang's pickup system offers tonal versatility rarely found on other guitars:

• Individual phase switches create hollow, nasal tones when one pickup is out of phase

• Both pickups in phase provides a fuller, more conventional tone

• Bridge pickup alone delivers aggressive, cutting tones perfect for punk and indie rock

• Neck pickup produces warm, round tones suitable for jazz or clean rhythm work

Tremolo System Contribution: The floating tremolo system affects the guitar's natural tone even when not actively used:

• Adds natural sustain and resonance through the floating bridge

• Creates subtle pitch variations that add character to sustained notes

• Allows for dramatic pitch bending both up and down from the natural pitch

Recording and Performance Applications

Studio Applications: The Mustang excels in recording situations where unique tonal textures are desired:

• Overdubbing parts that need to cut through dense mixes

• Creating atmospheric textures with the tremolo and phase switching

• Doubling parts recorded with longer-scale guitars for enhanced frequency content

Live Performance Characteristics: On stage, the Mustang offers several practical advantages:

• Lighter weight reduces fatigue during long performances

• Short scale length accommodates players with smaller hands

• Unique switching system allows rapid tonal changes within songs

• Natural feedback characteristics work well with high-gain amplification

Notable Recordings and Artists

The Mustang's distinctive sound appears on numerous influential recordings:

• Sonic Youth: Extensive use throughout their catalog, particularly on "Daydream Nation"

• Patti Smith: Used Mustangs on early recordings including "Horses"

• The Breeders: Kim Deal's Mustang work defined the band's sound

• Nirvana: Kurt Cobain frequently used modified Mustangs in the studio

• My Bloody Valentine: Kevin Shields used Mustangs for their revolutionary tremolo techniques

Common Issues, Modifications, and Maintenance

Typical Problems with Vintage Mustangs

Tremolo System Issues: The floating tremolo, while innovative, presents several common problems:

• Spring fatigue: Original springs lose tension over decades

• Bridge post wear: Repeated tremolo use can cause bridge posts to wear

• Arm socket problems: The locking tremolo arm mechanism can fail

• Intonation drift: The floating system can make stable intonation challenging

Neck and Fret Issues:

• Neck angle problems: Some examples develop neck angle issues requiring expensive repairs

• Fret wear: The softer fret wire used in vintage examples wears quickly

• Truss rod problems: Some vintage examples have non-functional truss rods

Electronics Problems:

• Switch failures: The complex switching system has multiple failure points

• Potentiometer issues: Vintage pots often become scratchy or fail completely

• Grounding problems: The tremolo system can create intermittent grounding issues

Value-Affecting Modifications

Common Modifications That Reduce Value:

• Pickup replacements: Vintage Mustang pickups are highly valued

• Tremolo modifications or removal: Often done to improve stability but kills collector value

• Neck replacements: Sometimes necessary but drastically reduces value

• Control modifications: Adding switches or changing control layouts

• Refinishing: Perhaps the most value-destroying modification possible

Modifications That May Increase Value:

• Professional setup optimization: Proper tremolo adjustment can improve playability

• Sympathetic electronics restoration: Using period-correct components

• Careful cosmetic restoration: Professional repair of minor finish damage

Authentication Red Flags

Warning Signs of Counterfeits or Heavy Modification:

• Pickup routes that don't match original specifications

• Neck pockets with incorrect dimensions or angles

• Hardware that doesn't match documented specifications for the claimed year

• Finish characteristics inconsistent with nitrocellulose lacquer

• Serial numbers that don't align with other dating indicators

Refinish Detection:

• Overspray evidence: Look for finish in screw holes, cavities, or under hardware

• Color inconsistencies: Refinished guitars often have color matching problems

• Finish thickness: Modern paints are often thicker than original nitrocellulose

• Wear patterns: Refinished guitars lack authentic wear patterns

Why Collectors and Players Value Mustangs

Collector Appeal Factors

Historical Significance: The Mustang represents Leo Fender's final major design innovation before the CBS acquisition, making it historically significant beyond its musical applications. Collectors appreciate owning a piece of Leo's vision for accessible, innovative guitar design.

Relative Rarity: Compared to Stratocasters and Telecasters, Mustangs were produced in much smaller quantities, particularly in custom colors and special configurations. This scarcity drives collector interest and value appreciation.

Undervalued Market Position: Many collectors recognize that Mustangs remain significantly undervalued compared to other vintage Fenders, presenting investment opportunities for knowledgeable buyers.

Player Appeal and Modern Relevance

Ergonomic Advantages: Modern players, particularly those with smaller hands or physical limitations, find the Mustang's ergonomics superior to longer-scale guitars:

• Reduced finger stretching requirements

• Lower string tension reduces fatigue

• Lighter weight improves comfort during extended playing

Tonal Uniqueness: In an era of homogenized guitar tones, the Mustang offers distinctive sonic characteristics:

• Natural compression and sustain characteristics

• Unique harmonic content from the short scale

• Phase switching capabilities rarely found on other guitars

Cultural Cachet: The Mustang's association with influential alternative and indie artists gives it significant cultural relevance among younger players seeking authentic vintage tone.

Investment Potential Analysis

Market Trends (2020-2025): Mustang values have shown consistent appreciation:

• Pre-CBS examples have appreciated 15-20% annually

• Competition models have seen 25-30% annual increases

• Rare custom colors have doubled in value over five years

Future Outlook: Several factors suggest continued value appreciation:

• Increasing recognition of Leo Fender's design innovation

• Growing appreciation for shorter scale guitars

• Limited supply of authentic vintage examples

• Continued celebrity endorsement and media exposure

Regional Variations and Special Models

Competition Series (1969-1975)

The Competition Mustang represents the most visually distinctive variation:

• Racing-inspired stripe patterns borrowed from contemporary automotive design

• Competition Orange with Burgundy stripes - most common configuration

• Competition Burgundy with Orange stripes - significantly rarer

• Matching headstock colors on all Competition models

• Premium pricing from introduction, making them relatively scarce

Competition Model Value Factors:

• Original stripe patterns command significant premiums

• Matching headstock colors are essential for authenticity

• Competition models in excellent condition can bring double standard model values

European Market Mustangs

Some Mustangs were specifically manufactured for European distribution:

• Different pickup specifications for European preferences

• Unique finish options not available in the US market

• Different control layouts on some models

• Serial numbering variations for export models

Custom Shop and Limited Editions

While focusing primarily on vintage examples, it's worth noting that Fender has produced various limited edition Mustangs:

• Artist signature models (Kurt Cobain, Patti Smith)

• Custom Shop recreations of famous vintage examples

• Limited runs with unique specifications

Selling Your Vintage Fender Mustang

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars for Your Mustang

At Edgewater Guitars, we understand that your vintage Fender Mustang represents more than just a musical instrument—it's a piece of American craftsmanship and musical history. Our team of vintage guitar experts specializes in accurately appraising and purchasing Fender Mustangs from all eras, ensuring you receive fair market value for your instrument.

Our Mustang Expertise Includes:

• Accurate dating and authentication using serial numbers, neck dates, and hardware specifications

• Comprehensive condition assessment including electronics, tremolo system, and finish evaluation

• Market-leading valuations that consistently exceed local guitar shop offers by 30-40%

• Immediate cash payment with no waiting periods or consignment fees

Why Sellers Choose Edgewater:

• Expert Authentication: Our specialists can distinguish between original and modified components

• Premium Pricing: We understand the collector market and pay accordingly

• Hassle-Free Process: We handle all logistics, including secure transportation for high-value instruments

• Transparent Evaluation: We explain our valuation process and market factors

Advantages Over Other Selling Options

Compared to Local Music Stores:

• Local shops often lack specialized vintage Mustang knowledge

• Their need for retail margins limits purchase offers

• Limited customer base for vintage instruments

• Often unable to properly authenticate custom colors or rare variations

Compared to Online Auctions:

• No seller fees, listing costs, or payment processing charges

• No risk of non-paying bidders or return requests

• Immediate payment without waiting periods

• No need for professional photography or detailed descriptions

Compared to Private Sales:

• No safety concerns about meeting strangers

• No time investment in showing the instrument multiple times

• Expert handling prevents damage during evaluation

• Immediate cash payment without financing concerns

Our Mustang Evaluation Process

When you contact Edgewater about your vintage Mustang, we begin with a preliminary assessment:

1. Initial Information Gathering: Serial number, finish color, condition overview

2. Authentication Process: Verification of original components and specifications

3. Market Analysis: Current values for comparable instruments in similar condition

4. Offer Presentation: Detailed explanation of our valuation and immediate cash offer

5. Transaction Completion: Secure payment and professional instrument transportation

Documentation and Provenance

We understand the importance of documentation in vintage guitar transactions:

• Original cases add significant value and authenticity

• Purchase receipts or documentation provide valuable provenance

• Professional appraisals help establish condition and authenticity

• Photographs showing the guitar's history can increase collector appeal

Geographic Service Area

Edgewater Guitars serves vintage guitar owners throughout:

• Ohio - Our primary service area with on-site evaluations available

• Michigan - Regular buying trips to Detroit, Grand Rapids, and surrounding areas

• Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and all regions

• Indiana - Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and throughout the state

• West Virginia - Charleston, Morgantown, and all areas

For high-value Mustangs, we travel throughout the Midwest region to provide on-site evaluations and immediate purchase.

Related Resources and References

Essential Authentication Tools

Serial Number Resources:

• Fender Serial Number Database - Comprehensive dating information

• Vintage Guitar Magazine Price Guide - Annual market valuations

• Mustang-Specific Forums - Collector community knowledge sharing

Technical Specifications:

• Original Fender Catalogs - Period advertising and specifications

• Patent Documentation - Tremolo system technical details

• Factory Order Numbers - Production sequence information

Recommended Reading

Books:

• The Fender Stratocaster: The Life & Times of the World's Greatest Guitar by Tom Wheeler

• Fender: The Inside Story by Forrest White

• The Fender Book by Tony Bacon and Paul Day

Periodicals:

• Vintage Guitar Magazine - Monthly market updates and historical articles

• Guitar Player - Technical articles and player interviews

• Premier Guitar - Modern applications and modifications

Expert Network

Our network of vintage guitar experts includes:

• Former Fender employees with factory knowledge

• Professional guitar techs specializing in vintage tremolo systems

• Collectors with decades of Mustang experience

• Museum curators and guitar historians

The Future of Mustang Collecting

Market Trends and Predictions

The vintage Mustang market continues evolving as new generations of players and collectors discover these unique instruments:

Increasing Recognition:

• Growing appreciation for Leo Fender's design innovation

• Rising interest in shorter-scale guitars among modern players

• Continued celebrity endorsements driving demand

• Social media exposure introducing Mustangs to younger demographics

Supply Constraints:

• Limited original production numbers create natural scarcity

• Many examples modified or damaged over decades

• Increasing prices make high-grade examples less likely to appear on market

• Collector retention reducing available supply

Investment Outlook: Based on current market trends, we anticipate:

• Continued appreciation of 15-20% annually for pre-CBS examples

• Accelerating values for Competition models and rare custom colors

• Growing interest in transitional periods and unusual specifications

• Potential market correction followed by sustained long-term growth

Advice for Current Owners

If you own a vintage Fender Mustang, several factors should inform your decision making:

Hold vs. Sell Considerations:

• Market momentum strongly favors holding premium examples

• Personal financial needs may override investment considerations

• Insurance and storage costs factor into long-term ownership

• Market timing becomes less critical with truly exceptional examples

Maintenance and Preservation:

• Professional setup can improve playability without affecting value

• Climate-controlled storage prevents finish and hardware degradation

• Regular inspection catches problems before they become major issues

• Documentation preservation maintains provenance and value

Conclusion

The Fender Mustang represents one of the most compelling opportunities in vintage guitar collecting today. These instruments combine Leo Fender's innovative design vision with distinctive tonal characteristics that have inspired generations of musicians. From the original 1964 models through the final 1981 production, each Mustang tells a story of American manufacturing excellence and musical evolution.

For vintage guitar owners considering selling their Mustang, the current market offers excellent opportunities for fair valuation and immediate transaction completion. At Edgewater Guitars, we combine deep expertise in Mustang authentication and valuation with a straightforward, professional selling process that consistently delivers superior results compared to other selling options.

Whether your Mustang is a pristine pre-CBS example in a rare custom color or a well-played CBS-era instrument with competition stripes, we have the knowledge and market connections to ensure you receive fair compensation for your vintage instrument. Our commitment to paying premium prices reflects our understanding that these guitars represent far more than their individual components—they're pieces of musical history that deserve proper appreciation and valuation.

Ready to discuss your vintage Fender Mustang? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation evaluation. Call us directly at (440) 219-3607 or visit our website to begin the process. We're here to help you navigate the vintage guitar market with confidence and receive the full value your instrument deserves.

Edgewater Guitars - Your trusted partner for vintage guitar transactions throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia.