By C.

Here at IVG, buying guitars is what we do best! And while we carry new products from major manufacturers like Fender, Gretsch and Gibson, nothing puts a smile on our face more than a vintage guitar coming through our doors. But how exactly does that work? In this article, we’ll explain a bit about how we purchase vintage instruments, and in this case, a 1964 Fender Telecaster.

Do you have a vintage guitar or bass you’d like to sell? Contact us here

On a mid-afternoon weekday, a man in his late fifties or so with graying hair and a neatly trimmed beard walked into the shop carrying an old black fender case. Guitars of all shapes and sizes adorn our walls, and he couldn’t help but do a quick scan of each one meticulously displayed to catch the eye of every passerby.

The man had a purposeful stride as he approached the counter, where we were tuning a new arrival. After greeting the man we inquired what he brought in with him. “I have something special I’d like to show you”, he said. “Sure thing. Why don’t we take a look at what you’ve got.”

With a careful, almost reverent motion, the man placed the case on the counter and opened it. Inside was a vintage Tele in a striking blond finish. The guitar’s hardware had a soft patina, and the maple neck had a well-worn look that’s hard to fake. It was clear that this instrument had a history.

Did you know we also buy collections? If you need to sell multiple pieces at once quickly and easily, send us an email or give us a call for more info

“This,” the man said, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia, “is a 1964 Fender Telecaster It’s been with me for a number of years, but the time has come to let her go.” He sighed, looking down at the guitar. “My playing days are behind me, and I think it’s time for someone else to enjoy her. I know this place has a reputation for finding good homes for instruments like this.” It’s not always easy selling a piece you’ve owned for such a long time, but we’re here to help make the process and easy as possible. After all, these aren’t just instruments, they’re companions to peoples lives as well.

He gently lifted the guitar out of the case, feeling its weight and balance. He strummed a few chords, and the rich, warm tones rang out in the store. Even without an amplifier (and being slightly out of tune), the guitar’s sound and resonance was undeniable.

The man chuckled softly. “I did my best to keep it in good shape. This guitar has seen a lot of gigs and a lot of late-night jam sessions. But the white color got rather beat up over the years, so I had the body resprayed at least 10 years ago or so.” Now, in the vintage guitar market, originality is key. And after explaining to him that a refin will significantly affect the overall value, he understood and said he had never planned to sell it in the first place. Thats okay! It happens, we just have to factor that into the price.

After we continued to examine the guitar, the man shared a few more stories. He spoke of his journeys from small-town gigs and back yard concerts with friends . He recounted his own experiences learning to play as a teenager, the hours he spent practicing, and the many times he took the stage himself with this Tele.

“I’ve thought long and hard about this,” he admitted. “But I believe it’s time for someone else to create new memories with her.” We placed the guitar back in its case and told him how we would be honored to take it in and find it a new home with someone who’ll appreciate it as much as he did. He nodded, a mix of relief and sadness in his eyes. “That’s all I can ask for.”

Then we discussed the details of the sale, comparing market value on similar guitars of that year and condition before getting an average estimated retail price. We then asked what he’d like to get to make him happy. He understood our valuation with all things considered and ultimately decided on a reasonable asking price. So without anymore fuss, we shook hands and wrote him a check for his desired amount, acknowledging both the instrument’s monetary and sentimental value.

Before leaving, he took one last look at the guitar. It was the end of an era for him, but he walked out with a sense of peace, knowing that the guitar’s story was far from over. It would soon belong to a new musician, ready to make it sing once more, continuing its journey through the world of music.

With 4 stores across Southern California, we’re always buying! Not sure what your instrument is worth? Bring it by the shop or schedule an appraisal online