Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $8,619

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "1963 Fender Telecaster". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step back in time with the 1963 Fender Telecaster, a timeless masterpiece that encapsulates the spirit of early rock and roll. Crafted with an alder body, this solid-body electric guitar offers an unmistakable resonance and sustain that has defined countless hits. The riftsawn maple neck is topped with a luxurious AAA 9 mm rosewood fingerboard, providing a smooth playing experience that both vintage aficionados and modern players will appreciate.

The neck sports an oval "C" profile, offering a comfortable grip that suits a variety of playing styles, from intricate fingerpicking to aggressive power chords. With 21 narrow tall frets, this Telecaster ensures precise note articulation and effortless bends. The handwound OBG bridge and twisted Tele neck single-coil pickups deliver a classic, bright, and twangy tone that is quintessentially Fender.

Aesthetically, this guitar boasts a 3-ply mint green pickguard and vintage hardware that exudes retro charm. The modern Tele wiring and 3-way toggle switch allow for versatile tonal options, enabling musicians to navigate different soundscapes effortlessly. As a part of Fender's Custom Shop, each guitar comes with a certificate of authenticity, solidifying its place as a collector's item.

Indulge in a piece of musical history with the 1963 Fender Telecaster. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate enthusiast, this iconic instrument promises to inspire and elevate your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Alder body
  • Riftsawn maple neck
  • AAA 9 mm rosewood fingerboard
  • 21 narrow tall frets (6105)
  • Handwound OBG bridge and twisted Tele neck single-coil pickups
  • Modern Tele wiring with a 3-way toggle switch
  • 3-ply mint green pickguard
  • Vintage hardware
  • Includes case and certificate of authenticity
  • Made in USA

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Telecaster
Finish Blonde, Candy Apple Red, Olympic White, Sunburst
Year 1963
Made In United States
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Alder, Ash
Body Shape T-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Brown, Red, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Fretboard Radius 7.25"
Model Family Fender Telecaster
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 21
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration SS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era
Wood Top Style Opaque, Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile of the 1963 Fender Telecaster?

The 1963 Fender Telecaster features a "C"-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable grip that is suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

What kind of pickups are used in the 1963 Fender Telecaster?

The 1963 Fender Telecaster is equipped with single-coil pickups, which are known for their bright, cutting tone that is ideal for genres like country, rock, and blues.

Is the 1963 Fender Telecaster suitable for beginners?

While the 1963 Fender Telecaster is a classic and highly regarded instrument, its vintage specifications may be better appreciated by experienced players or collectors rather than beginners.

What is the fretboard radius of the 1963 Fender Telecaster?

The fretboard radius of the 1963 Fender Telecaster is 7.25 inches, which is typical for vintage Fender guitars and contributes to its distinct playability.

What type of wood is used for the body of the 1963 Fender Telecaster?

The body of the 1963 Fender Telecaster is made from either alder or ash, both of which are known for their tonal qualities and durability.

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

1963 Fender Telecaster played by JD Simo

Video thumbnail for 1963 Fender Telecaster played by JD Simo by Carter Vintage Guitars

1963 Fender Telecaster played by JD Simo

Carter Vintage Guitars

Carter Vintage Guitars

Video thumbnail for Tim Plays Vintage - Episode 3 - 1963 FENDER TELECASTER + 1958 FENDER HARVARD! by Tim Allard

Tim Plays Vintage - Episode 3 - 1963 FENDER TELECASTER + 1958 FENDER HARVARD!

Tim Allard

Tim Allard

Video thumbnail for Vintage Original 1963 Fender L Series Telecaster by PREMIER GUITARS

Vintage Original 1963 Fender L Series Telecaster

PREMIER GUITARS

PREMIER GUITARS

Video thumbnail for Perfectly Clean Pre-CBS Fender Telecaster from 1963! by True Vintage Guitar

Perfectly Clean Pre-CBS Fender Telecaster from 1963!

True Vintage Guitar

True Vintage Guitar

Video thumbnail for 1963 Fender Telecaster by Capsule Music

1963 Fender Telecaster

Capsule Music

Capsule Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1963 Fender Telecaster.

Build quality

  • It's observed that vintage pickguards may shrink, leading to fit issues and increased risk of cracking when removing screws.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the rolled edges of the fretboard, which contribute to a comfortable playing experience.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Original solder and electronics should remain intact for value retention; careful cleaning of malfunctioning parts is recommended to preserve vintage components.

    Source
  • The original color might be visible in the control cavity, but disassembly should be approached with caution to avoid damage.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An original 1963 Telecaster, even with a stripped finish, is valued between $9,000-$12,000, with insurance coverage suggested at $25,000.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1963 Telecaster was favored over the 1951 model for its punchier bridge pickup and better sustain, with a neck that offers a less burly feel.

    Source
  • The 1963 Telecaster's neck pickup is described as having a sound similar to a Stratocaster, offering a "really good" tonal quality that appeals to fans of diverse genres.

    Source

User experience

  • Some buyers feel the vintage wooden cases, though authentic, are less durable than modern molded options.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the rosewood fingerboard of the 1963 model, finding it more appealing over time compared to the maple options.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 1963 model is favored for its bassy sound, which suits styles like jazz and pop, while the 1952 model is noted for its classic Tele bridge sound with more bite.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 1963 Telecaster is linked to iconic players like Mike Bloomfield and Steve Cropper, adding historical and cultural value for fans of their music.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eric Clapton uses 1963 Fender Telecaster

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Used with John Mayall Bluesbreakers for 2 months before switching to a Les Paul.

See how Nancy Wilson uses 1963 Fender Telecaster

Nancy Wilson

Guitarist

Heart

...
Verified via YouTube
Year: 1963

In the video titled "Heart's Nancy Wilson Rig Rundown with Ryan Wariner & Ryan Waters," at 0:15, guitarist Nancy Wilson is seen on stage with host John Bohlinger discussing her 1963 Fender Telecaster in Lake Placid Blue, as documented by Premier Guitar on YouTube.

See how J.D. Simo uses 1963 Fender Telecaster

J.D. Simo

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram

JD seen playing his 1963 Fender Telecaster

See how Michael Bloomfield uses 1963 Fender Telecaster

Michael Bloomfield

Guitarist

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

This is the guitar Bloomfield used on The Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Bob Dylan's Highway 61 Revisited.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use 1963 Fender Telecaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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