Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $6,256

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "fender precision 1951". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Fender Precision 1951 bass guitar stands as a monumental achievement in the world of electric basses, heralding the dawn of a new era in music. Its revolutionary design was inspired by its sibling, the Telecaster, offering bassists the same solid body reliability but with a distinctively rich and full-bodied tone. Crafted from a solid slab of ash, this bass delivers a resonant sound that has been the backbone of countless legendary tracks across the decades.

At the heart of its classic sound is a single-coil pickup positioned strategically for optimal balance between the bridge and neck. This placement allows for a warm yet articulate tone that has defined genres from rock to funk. The one-piece maple neck and fretboard provide a smooth and responsive playing experience, while the 2-saddle bridge supports a vintage feel with a modern edge.

The Fender Precision 1951 boasts a timeless aesthetic, featuring a phenolic pickguard and vintage chrome knobs that complement its narrow headstock. Its genuine “Time-Capsule” finish preserves its historical essence, making it not just an instrument, but a piece of musical history. Whether you're channeling the spirit of Geezer Butler, Roger Waters, or Sting, this bass offers a canvas for both innovation and nostalgia.

Key Features:

  • Solid ash body for resonant sound
  • Single-coil pickup positioned between bridge and neck
  • One-piece maple neck and fretboard
  • 2-saddle bridge for vintage feel
  • Phenolic pickguard and vintage chrome knobs
  • Telecaster-style headstock
  • Includes hardshell case and Certificate of Authenticity

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Precision Bass
Finish Blonde
Year 1951 - 1953
Made In United States
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp No Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape P-Style
Color Family Yellow
Fretboard Material Maple
Model Family Fender Precision Bass
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration S
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage Pre-CBS Era

FAQs

What are the key tonal characteristics of the 1951 Fender Precision Bass?

The 1951 Fender Precision Bass is known for its warm, punchy tone with a strong midrange presence, thanks to its single-coil pickup and ash body. This makes it ideal for genres like rock, blues, and jazz.

Is the 1951 Fender Precision Bass suitable for beginners?

While the 1951 Fender Precision Bass is a classic instrument with historical significance, its playability and straightforward design make it accessible for beginners, though its vintage status might make it more appealing to collectors and experienced players.

What is the neck profile of the 1951 Fender Precision Bass?

The 1951 Fender Precision Bass features a "C"-shaped neck profile, providing a comfortable grip for most players and facilitating smooth playability across the maple fretboard.

Does the 1951 Fender Precision Bass have active or passive pickups?

The 1951 Fender Precision Bass is equipped with passive pickups, offering a traditional, vintage bass tone without the need for an onboard preamp or battery.

How many frets does the 1951 Fender Precision Bass have?

The 1951 Fender Precision Bass has 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes suitable for various musical styles.

Fender

Fender

Fender 1951 Relic Precision Bass Demo | Fender

Video thumbnail for Fender 1951 Relic Precision Bass Demo | Fender by Fender

Fender 1951 Relic Precision Bass Demo | Fender

Fender

Fender

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1951 Fender Precision Bass by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1951 Fender Precision Bass

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop 1951 Precision Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC by Empire Music

Fender Custom Shop 1951 Precision Bass - EMPIRE MUSIC

Empire Music

Empire Music

Video thumbnail for Fender 1951 Precision Bass by Westwood Music

Fender 1951 Precision Bass

Westwood Music

Westwood Music

Video thumbnail for Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition 1951 Precision Bass NOS - EMPIRE MUSIC by Empire Music

Fender Custom Shop Limited Edition 1951 Precision Bass NOS - EMPIRE MUSIC

Empire Music

Empire Music

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about fender precision 1951.

User experience

  • The slab body of the 1951 Precision can become uncomfortable after about 5 minutes of playing due to its lack of contours.

    Source
  • Owners frequently remove pickup covers, as they interfere with playing comfort and access to preferred tonal sweet spots.

    Source
  • Some players prefer to play directly over the pickup; the pickup cover forces an awkward arm angle, often leading to its removal.

    Source
  • A refinish in the 70s/80s can significantly enhance the appearance while maintaining vintage charm.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Squier '54 and Mike Dirnt models are mentioned as potential alternatives with similar vintage vibes at lower price points.

    Source
  • An American Vintage II offers real nitro finishes similar to the Custom Shop at a fraction of the price.

    Source
  • The pristine condition of some 1951 models contrasts sharply with the heavily worn instruments played by artists like Sting.

    Source

Build quality

  • A quartersawn neck on the 1951 Precision is noted for having no dead spots, a rare quality for Fenders.

    Source
  • Early models lack a strap peg behind the headstock, typical of the era's design choices.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Original 1951 models may feature phenolic or brass saddles, affecting tonal characteristics.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Originally developed to replace the upright bass, its role in modern music has evolved but retains historical significance.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

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Artist usage

Add artist
C

Charles Larkey

Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

Charles Larkey, at least during his tenure under Proto-Punk icons The Fugs was with a 1951-53 P-Bass, with metal pickup guard, (likely yellow on black) which is more clearly visible on a 1968 appearance on Swedish TV

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1R1geakYmc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljxnEep6d-c

This was the lineup featuring Ken Pine, Larkey, Bob Mason on top of the three core members of the band. It was likely used on recordings and was on Golden Filth, the live album from 1970.

Genre Usage

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

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