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Gruhn Guitars: Vintage Guitar Evaluation, Appraisal and Value George Gruhn talks about why some guitars are worth a small fortune. . .and some are worth a large one. Meanwhile, Gruhn's staff conducts appraisals on several vintage instruments. From "Handmade Music" episode DHMM-305

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Holy Grails and Shining Examples:
The 1955 Fender Stratocaster and The Gibson Les Paul Original

A 1955 Gibson Stratocaster in peak condition can bring a price comparable to that of a luxury automobile or a small home. One example in Gruhn's trove of prize artifacts is a real gem--in custom original emerald-green metallic finish and remarkably good shape.

"In my own 42 years of experience collecting guitars," Gruhn says, "I can't think of another example of this period, in a custom color, as clean is this. This is one that, right now, is $100,000. I can't tell you what it will bring five or ten years from now. What I do know is that, right now, not only is it that much money, but it's a quick and easy sale."

1955 Fender Stratocaster in custom green-metallic finish.

Estimated value: $100,000

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The Gibson Les Paul Standard in Sunburst finish. Estimated value: $225,000

In the current market, and in the right condition, a Gibson Les Paul Standard is, as George Gruhn describes it, "an exceedingly sought-after guitar." This particular example, a recent acquisition at Gruhn's, has the Sunburst finish, curly maple top and is in good condition.

"This variation on the Les Paul," says Gruhn "was introduced in mid-1958 and was made through 1960. The ones that tend to be the most sought-after are the 1959 model with big, fat neck and large frets. This [one was made] early enough in the year 1960 that the specs are exactly the same as the '59 model. . . This particular instrument, even though the tuners have been changed and it shows some wear, is such a rare, sought-after model that right now this is a $200,000 guitar--and highly saleable."

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RESOURCES :

Gruhn Guitars
Nashville, Tennessee
www.gruhn.com

GUESTS :

George Gruhn
Proprietor, Gruhn Guitars
Nashville, Tenn.
www.gruhn.com

Andy Jellison, Vintage Instrument Repair Specialist
Gruhn Guitars
Nashville, Tenn.
www.gruhn.com