Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $6,930
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Embrace the legacy of the 1959 Fender Stratocaster, a masterpiece that blends the soul of the golden era of rock with the craftsmanship that has made Fender a legend. This iconic instrument, sought after by collectors and musicians alike, offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history without breaking the bank. Whether it was refinished by Fender or a skilled third party, each guitar maintains the exceptional quality and sound that Fender is known for. This model isn’t just an instrument; it’s a bridge to the past, designed for both the serious collector and the passionate player who dreams of channeling the spirit of the '50s rock legends.
Key Features:
- Pre-CBS era craftsmanship, capturing the authentic sound and feel of the '50s.
- Quality refinish that maintains the original aesthetic and tone.
- Iconic Stratocaster body shape, known for its comfort and style.
- Versatile sound capabilities, suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Stratocaster |
| Body Material | Select Alder |
| Body Finish | Gloss NOS Lacquer |
| Neck Material | Maple |
| Neck Shape | 1959 C |
| Neck Joint | Bolt-on |
| Radius | 7.25"-9.5" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 21, Medium Vintage |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Nut Width | 1.650" |
| Nut Material | Bone |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | 6-saddle Vintage-style Synchronized Tremolo |
| Tuners | Vintage-style with Fender logo |
| Neck Pickup | '59 Custom Shop Hand-wound Single-coil |
| Middle Pickup | '59 Custom Shop Hand-wound Single-coil |
| Bridge Pickup | '59 Custom Shop Hand-wound Single-coil |
| Controls | 1 x master volume, 2 x tone |
| Switching | 5-way blade pickup switch |
| Strings | Fender, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile of the 1959 Fender Stratocaster?
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The 1959 Fender Stratocaster features a 1959 C-shaped neck profile, offering a comfortable and familiar feel for players who enjoy vintage-style necks.
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What kind of tones can I expect from the '59 Custom Shop hand-wound single-coil pickups?
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The '59 Custom Shop hand-wound single-coil pickups deliver classic Stratocaster tones with a clear, bell-like quality, perfect for genres ranging from blues and rock to surf and pop.
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Is the 1959 Fender Stratocaster suitable for beginners?
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While the 1959 Fender Stratocaster offers a premium playing experience with vintage features, its historical significance and price point may be better suited for experienced players or collectors.
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What type of finish does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster have?
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This model features a Gloss NOS Lacquer finish, which provides a smooth, classic look while allowing the alder body to resonate freely.
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Does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster come with a case?
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Yes, the 1959 Fender Stratocaster comes with a hardshell case to protect the instrument during transport and storage.
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How does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster's bridge affect playability?
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The guitar is equipped with a 6-saddle vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, offering smooth tremolo action and stable tuning for expressive playing styles.
Videos
Normans Rare Guitars
Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster with Orianthi
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965).
Build quality
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Slab rosewood fretboard and clay dots are noted, with original Bakelite pickup covers prone to breaking.
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Concerns raised about the authenticity of relic finishes, with some describing neck wear on reissues as poorly executed compared to genuine age wear.
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The combination of a Squier Classic Vibe 50s body with an American Fender bridge and tremolo block provides a solid foundation and reliable sustain.
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Setup and maintenance
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Repaired headstock cracks can impact tuning stability; a reputable luthier is recommended for assessment.
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Potential buyers should email Fender with the serial number to get a "shop floor traveler," detailing original parts and specs for Custom Shop builds.
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Incorporating a 50s style wiring with 250k CTS pots and a .022uf orange drop capacitor achieves a balanced tone and responsive controls.
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Features and functionality
Value and pricing
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Originality and unique custom colors like Sage Green or Inca Silver can significantly increase value, up to $80,000 or more.
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Use cases and applications
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Known for being a "holy grail" guitar, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts, indicating a need for careful handling and security.
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User experience
Mods and upgrades
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Some users recommend checking and potentially replacing pickups for authenticity, as they're a common swap in older and reissue models.
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Lollar Dirty Blonde pickups are favored for their vintage tonal character, enhancing the classic 1959 Strat sound with clarity and warmth.
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Highwood contoured vintage saddles are recommended for improved string alignment and comfort during play, offering a subtle upgrade to the bridge setup.
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The Might Mite early 60s style rosewood neck, paired with vintage tuners, is noted for its comfortable playability and authentic vintage look.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
In a YouTube video titled "1959 Black and Gold Strat | J Mascis | Fender Play LIVE," J Mascis confirms owning a 1959 Black Fender Stratocaster with gold hardware.
In an Instagram post, Brian Baker showcases his 1959 Fender Stratocaster. He mentions that this guitar can deliver both Stevie Ray Vaughan and punk rock tones, noting it as the Stratocaster that changed his perception of the model.
At 1:39 you can hear him talking about the '59 pickups in this Strat. He goes on to mention he has an original [1959 Stratocaster].
The entire video is about the instrument. A 1959 stratocaster Ed extensively used to write and tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd
In a video interview hosted by Tone-Talk titled "Ep. 45 - Steve Farris of Mr. Mister on Tone-Talk! Interview! Kiss, Van Halen, Whitesnake!", guitarist Steve Farris confirms his use of a 1959 Fender Stratocaster at the 3:11 timestamp.
On Jess's official Instagram, he posted a picture of two separate vintage Stratocasters. One is a 1959, and the other is a 1955. One is in 3 tone sunburst and the other is in two tone sunburst.
At the bottom of the page, it is stated that Bobby Fuller owned a 59' Strat
In this 2008 article from Vintage Guitar Magazine, Brent gives a run through of his collection. Regarding his Fiesta Red Strat with EMGs, he states:
It’s a ’56 that Joe Glaser refinished with what was supposed to be an original can of Fiesta Red he found. I bought it from songwriter Willis Alan Ramsey about 20 years ago. I have the original pickups set aside.
A nice photo of the Strat (and his many others) is also provided.
He used it on Kenny Rodgers version of Prairie Wedding and Tim McGraw’s Down On The Farm.
Album Usage
The Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965) 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 Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965), it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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