1955 Fender Stratocaster

The 1955 Stratocaster — pre-CBS era. Among the most collectible electric guitars.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$56,000$80,000
Very Good
$32,000$56,000
Good
$16,000$32,000
Fair
$8,000$16,000

* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology

Specifications

Body WoodAsh
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardMaple (one-piece neck)
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigSSS
BridgeSynchronized tremolo
TunersKluson Deluxe
Finish OptionsTwo-tone Sunburst, Custom colors (very rare)
Est. Production1,700

Pickups & Electronics

Three hand-wound single-coil pickups. Three-way switch.

What Changed in 1955

Production increasing. The Strat establishing itself alongside the Telecaster.

Collector's Notes

Pre-CBS Strats are premium collectibles. Custom colors command enormous premiums. Verify fingerboard wood (maple vs slab rosewood vs veneer), original pickups, and hardware.