Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$4,575.00
Fender
$4,575.00
Reverb
4.0 (15)
$13,995.00 68 available Used
Gear4Music
£3,499.00

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.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

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

What is the neck profile of the 1959 Fender Stratocaster?

The 1959 Fender Stratocaster features a 1959 C-shaped neck profile, offering a comfortable and familiar feel for players who enjoy vintage-style necks.

What kind of tones can I expect from the '59 Custom Shop hand-wound single-coil pickups?

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.

Is the 1959 Fender Stratocaster suitable for beginners?

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.

What type of finish does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster have?

This model features a Gloss NOS Lacquer finish, which provides a smooth, classic look while allowing the alder body to resonate freely.

Does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster come with a case?

Yes, the 1959 Fender Stratocaster comes with a hardshell case to protect the instrument during transport and storage.

How does the 1959 Fender Stratocaster's bridge affect playability?

The guitar is equipped with a 6-saddle vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge, offering smooth tremolo action and stable tuning for expressive playing styles.

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster with Orianthi

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster with Orianthi by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster with Orianthi

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster | Norman's Rare Guitars by Normans Rare Guitars

Guitar of the Day: 1959 Fender Stratocaster | Norman's Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1959 Fender Stratocaster and 1970 Marshall JMP 1959T by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1959 Fender Stratocaster and 1970 Marshall JMP 1959T

Emerald City Guitars

Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Hurricane Survivor :1959 Fender Stratocaster by Emerald City Guitars

The Hurricane Survivor :1959 Fender Stratocaster

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Emerald City Guitars

Video thumbnail for Original 1959 Fender Stratocaster by Normans Rare Guitars

Original 1959 Fender Stratocaster

Normans Rare Guitars

Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1959 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Guitar of the Day by Normans Rare Guitars

1959 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Guitar of the Day

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Normans Rare Guitars

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1959 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Guitar of the Day

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Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for "Pick of the Day" - 1959 Fender Stratocaster and Tone King Sky King by Emerald City Guitars

"Pick of the Day" - 1959 Fender Stratocaster and Tone King Sky King

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Emerald City Guitars

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1959 Fender Stratocaster Sunburst | Guitar of the Day

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Normans Rare Guitars

Video thumbnail for The Cleanest 1959 Fender Stratocaster! From its original owner by True Vintage Guitar

The Cleanest 1959 Fender Stratocaster! From its original owner

True Vintage Guitar

True Vintage Guitar

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

  • Slab rosewood fretboard and clay dots are noted, with original Bakelite pickup covers prone to breaking.

    Source
  • Concerns raised about the authenticity of relic finishes, with some describing neck wear on reissues as poorly executed compared to genuine age wear.

    Source
  • The combination of a Squier Classic Vibe 50s body with an American Fender bridge and tremolo block provides a solid foundation and reliable sustain.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Repaired headstock cracks can impact tuning stability; a reputable luthier is recommended for assessment.

    Source
  • Potential buyers should email Fender with the serial number to get a "shop floor traveler," detailing original parts and specs for Custom Shop builds.

    Source
  • Incorporating a 50s style wiring with 250k CTS pots and a .022uf orange drop capacitor achieves a balanced tone and responsive controls.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Date codes on neck and pots provide clues about originality; neck heel and cavity stamps are key identifiers.

    Source
  • It's noted that 1959 Strats didn't originally come with tortoiseshell pickguards, suggesting customization or modification in reissues.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Originality and unique custom colors like Sage Green or Inca Silver can significantly increase value, up to $80,000 or more.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for being a "holy grail" guitar, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts, indicating a need for careful handling and security.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite cosmetic wear like buckle rash, the guitar's age and condition make it a cherished heirloom for many owners.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the importance of having documentation like COA and "case candy" for resale and authenticity assurance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users recommend checking and potentially replacing pickups for authenticity, as they're a common swap in older and reissue models.

    Source
  • Lollar Dirty Blonde pickups are favored for their vintage tonal character, enhancing the classic 1959 Strat sound with clarity and warmth.

    Source
  • Highwood contoured vintage saddles are recommended for improved string alignment and comfort during play, offering a subtle upgrade to the bridge setup.

    Source
  • The Might Mite early 60s style rosewood neck, paired with vintage tuners, is noted for its comfortable playability and authentic vintage look.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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hector_villanueva

Fender Stratocaster 1959

The first stratocaster guitar with rosewood in the mast, taking into account that people loved the rosewood that they started using it in the whole line of instruments, having 50s side this guitar as aspects 60s, an instrument that made history

Artist usage

Add artist
See how J Mascis uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

J Mascis

Singer, Guitarist

Dinosaur Jr

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Black Year: 1959

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.

See how Brian Baker uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Brian Baker

Guitarist, Bassist

Bad Religion

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Tyler Bryant uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Tyler Bryant

Singer, Guitarist

Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown

...
Verified via YouTube

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].

See how Ed King uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Ed King

Guitarist, Bassist

Lynyrd Skynyrd

...
Verified via YouTube

The entire video is about the instrument. A 1959 stratocaster Ed extensively used to write and tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd

See how Steve Farris uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Steve Farris

Guitarist

Mr. Mister

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

See how Jess Carson uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Jess Carson

Singer, Guitarist

Midland

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how The Bobby Fuller Four uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

The Bobby Fuller Four

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Fender Stratocaster Guitar Forum

At the bottom of the page, it is stated that Bobby Fuller owned a 59' Strat

See how Bobby Fuller uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Bobby Fuller

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo you can see Bobby playing a 1959 Fender Stratocaster

See how Kyle McAulay uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Kyle McAulay

Guitarist

Spanish Love Songs

...
Verified via Photo

In this post kyle shows off his fender 59 strat

See how David Box uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

David Box

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

The guitar that David used throughout his career was a 1959 Fender Stratocaster.

See how Brent Rowan uses Fender Stratocaster (Refinished) (1954-1965)

Brent Rowan

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Rambos

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine
Color/Finish: Fiesta Red Year: 1956

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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