Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $3,701
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "1956 Fender Stratocaster". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
Step back in time with the 1956 Fender Stratocaster, an electric guitar that epitomizes the classic era of rock 'n' roll. This iconic instrument is revered for its V-shaped neck profile, offering a playing experience that is both comfortable and nostalgic. Crafted from premium materials, the body is made of light ash, while the neck is constructed from tinted AA birdseye maple, providing not only stunning aesthetics but also a resonant tone. The maple fingerboard, paired with vintage-style machine heads, ensures smooth playability and a classic feel.
The 1956 Stratocaster is equipped with three FAT '50s single-coil pickups, delivering the quintessential Strat sound—bright, articulate, and full of character. The 3-way pickup selector allows for versatile tonal options, from crisp highs to warm, rounded lows. With its US Vintage tremolo and modern Strat wiring, this guitar bridges the gap between vintage charm and contemporary reliability.
Whether you're channeling the spirits of legendary players like Jimi Hendrix or Stevie Ray Vaughan, or carving your own musical path, the 1956 Fender Stratocaster is a timeless companion that will inspire creativity and elevate your performance.
Key Features:
- Light ash body
- Tinted AA birdseye maple neck with a 10/56 "V" profile
- Maple fingerboard with 21 medium jumbo frets
- Bone nut
- Three FAT '50s single-coil pickups
- Modern Strat wiring
- Vintage-style machine heads
- US Vintage tremolo
- Includes a tweed case, cable, and certificate
Product specs
| Available since | November 2019 |
| Colour | Red |
| Body | Ash |
| Top | None |
| Neck | Maple |
| Fretboard | Maple |
| Frets | 21 |
| Scale | 648 mm |
| Pickups | SSS |
| Tremolo | Vintage |
| incl. Bag | No |
| incl. Case | Yes |
| Limited Run | NAMM 2020 |
| Model | 1956 Stratocaster |
| Shape | ST-Style |
| Pickup System | SSS |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used for the body of the 1956 Fender Stratocaster?
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The body of the 1956 Fender Stratocaster is made from ash wood, which contributes to its bright and resonant tone.
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What kind of pickups does the 1956 Fender Stratocaster have?
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The 1956 Fender Stratocaster features a single-coil SSS pickup configuration, providing the classic Strat sound with bright and clear tones.
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Is the 1956 Fender Stratocaster suitable for vintage tone enthusiasts?
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Yes, the 1956 Fender Stratocaster is ideal for vintage tone enthusiasts, offering a classic ST-Style shape and vintage tremolo that replicates the iconic sound and feel of the original 1956 model.
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Does the 1956 Fender Stratocaster come with a case?
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Yes, the 1956 Fender Stratocaster includes a case, providing protection and easy transport for the guitar.
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How many frets does the 1956 Fender Stratocaster have?
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The 1956 Fender Stratocaster is equipped with 21 frets on a maple fretboard, staying true to its vintage design.
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What is the neck material of the 1956 Fender Stratocaster?
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The neck of the 1956 Fender Stratocaster is made from maple, which enhances the guitar's bright tonal quality and sustain.
Videos
Carter Vintage Guitars
1956 Fender Stratocaster played by JD Simo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1956 Fender Stratocaster.
Build quality
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The aging process is noted to create a "sinking" effect in the nitro finish, visible as ripples and cracks that interact with darkening agents over time.
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Original decals were water-based and placed on top of the lacquer, making them prone to wear and removal over time.
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The flame on the neck receives specific praise for its stunning appearance, contributing to the guitar's overall visual appeal.
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Features and functionality
User experience
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Players report a unique humbling experience playing a guitar significantly older than themselves, with historical and sentimental value.
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Owners of the Masterbuilt 1956 Strat have expressed extreme satisfaction with the neck's aesthetic, describing it as "ridiculous" and "insane" in terms of appearance and feel.
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Value and pricing
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A 1956 Fender Stratocaster can be valued between $17,000 and $28,000 at auction, reflecting its rarity and desirability.
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Comparisons
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The Masterbuilt 1956 Stratocaster by Todd Krause is often compared favorably to a real 1965 Strat, praised for its unparalleled playability and sound.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Can be seen on 47:54 while playing Pretty Little Ditty and Hollywood ( Red Hot Chili Peppers - 1990-01-26 - Club Citta, Kawasaki City, Japan ). This stratocaster was not used many times but John said he bought 15 different strats some originals some reissues around this period in late 1989 to 1990.
George Harrison is shown using a 1956 Fender Stratocaster in a newly uploaded photo, featured in a book about the iconic guitar.
"Ash body, Bakelite parts and the best neck I have found on a 1956 Stratocaster.
“This guitar I found in Nashville a few years ago. It was being sold at a substantial loss after fetching almost $100,000 a few years ago. It still has the original receipt and pictures of the original owner. Best heard on my song, I Gave Up Everything for You, ‘Cept The Blues.” - Joe Bonamassa
In the video titled "The Collection: Brad Whitford of Aerosmith" on Gibson TV, at 36:21, guitarist Brad Whitford showcases his 1956 Fender Stratocaster.
John Perry is seen using a 1956 Fender Stratocaster in a sunburst finish at Stoneyblatter Studios in Dublin, as evidenced by the provided image.
Album Usage
The 1956 Fender Stratocaster has been featured on the following albums:
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 1956 Fender Stratocaster, it is most commonly used with the following gear.