Fender Telecaster USA (1979-1980)

$2,300.00 Price Tier: High-end

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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5.0 (25)

$2,300.00 61 available Used

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Average Price: $2,300

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, Fender Telecaster USA (1979-1980) is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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Step back in time and experience a slice of rock history with the Fender Telecaster USA from 1979-1980. This solid body electric guitar is a testament to Fender's innovative spirit, merging the classic Telecaster twang with the bold, full-bodied sound of a humbucker. Designed for musicians who crave versatility, the Telecaster USA was among the pioneers of the Wide Range humbucker at the neck, offering a unique blend of warmth and clarity. Whether you're crafting soulful blues or hard-hitting rock, this guitar's distinctive voice will cut through any mix.

The Telecaster USA is not just about sound; it's about feel. The vintage maple neck offers a smooth playing experience, while the robust ash body ensures durability and resonance. This guitar delivers the iconic Telecaster bridge snap, complemented by the humbucker's depth, making it a go-to instrument for countless genres. It's an instrument that has not only stood the test of time but has become a symbol of musical evolution.

Players will appreciate the precise craftsmanship that goes into every detail, from the tuning machines to the finish. This isn't just a guitar; it's a piece of musical heritage, crafted for those who appreciate the rich legacy of Fender and its role in shaping modern music.

Key Features:

Solid ash body for excellent resonance and sustain
Maple neck with a smooth finish for comfortable playability
Classic Telecaster bridge single-coil pickup
Wide Range humbucker at the neck for versatile tonal options
Vintage-style tuning machines for classic aesthetics and reliable tuning stability

Product specs

Brand	Fender
Model	Telecaster Custom
Finish	Antigua, Black, Blonde, Natural, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha), White, Wine
Year	1972 - 1980
Made In	United States
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape	T-Style
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	String-Through
Color Family	Black, Brown, Red, Tan, White, Yellow
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Maple, Rosewood
Model Family	Fender Telecaster
Model Sub-Family	Fender Telecaster Custom
Neck Construction	Bolt-On
Neck Material	Maple
Number of Frets	21
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	SH
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	25.5"
Series	Fender Vintage CBS Era

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA?: The 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA typically features a "C" shaped neck profile, which is comfortable for most playing styles and suitable for both rhythm and lead guitarists.
What kind of tones can I expect from the pickup configuration on this Telecaster?: The 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA has a single-coil bridge pickup and a humbucker neck pickup, offering a versatile range of tones from bright and twangy to warm and full, making it ideal for genres like rock, blues, and country.
Is the 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA suitable for beginners?: While this model is highly regarded for its vintage appeal and sound quality, it may be better suited for intermediate to advanced players due to its historical value and unique tonal characteristics.
What are the main finish options available for the 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA?: The 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA was available in several finishes, including Antigua, Black, Blonde, Natural, Sunburst, Walnut (Mocha), White, and Wine, allowing for a range of aesthetic preferences.
Does the 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA have a bolt-on neck construction?: Yes, the 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster USA features a bolt-on neck construction, which is typical for Telecasters and contributes to their bright tone and ease of neck adjustments.

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional clarity and high end from the neck pickup
Unique tone from Seth Lover wide range humbuckers
Bright bridge pickup offers versatile sound control
Highly regarded for rock and roll, reminiscent of Keith Richards
Considered a hidden gem in the vintage guitar market
Each guitar has its own unique voice and character

CONS

Generally heavier than most guitars, possibly over 10 lbs
Microphonic bridge pickups can be hard to control at loud gigs
Vintage frets require adjustment and getting used to
Wide range humbuckers may be overrated for some users

Critic Reviews

Classic gear: 1970s Fender Telecaster Custom | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The 1979-1980 Fender Telecaster Custom showcases notable innovations, including the introduction of wide-range humbuckers that set it apart from its predecessors. While its distinct aesthetic and sound appeal to many, the model's overall reception was mixed, with some players feeling it strayed too far from the classic Telecaster identity. Additionally, the discontinuation of this model by 1981 hints at its lack of commercial success. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents a significant chapter in Fender's evolution, but practical players may find it less versatile than other options.

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Michael Algar

Singer, Guitarist

Toy Dolls

Verified via Photo

As stated on the official Toy Dolls website 'Ask Olga' page, Algar describes his telecaster as being "...from 79/80, and was indeed set up by Les Tones... The guitar was originally sunburst, booooring! I thought anyway! Its been Yellow since 1982/3. A Fender Telecaster USA"

The telecaster has a maple neck, and likely the stock Fender neck 'lipstick' pickup. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Algar, states that the telecaster has a Seymour Duncan bridge pickup. It seems likely that the original scratchplate has been changed from a white (or white/black) to a single ply black plate. This has certainly been replaced a few times as Algar gave away a broken scratchplate in a Toy Dolls fan competition.

In videos from Toy Doll's 1985 release 'A Far Out Disc' Algar can be seen playing a pinkish red telecaster, that seems similar to his yellow one (vintage style bridge, maple neck) but with a 2-ply white/black scratchplate.This one is also likely custom painted.