1960 Fender Stratocaster

The 1960 Strat with thick slab rosewood board is among the most beloved pre-CBS configurations. Custom Colors from this year in documented original condition are exceptionally valuable.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$40,000$75,000
Very Good
$22,000$45,000
Good
$14,000$30,000
Fair
$6,000$15,000

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

Specifications

Body WoodAlder
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardRosewood (thick slab board)
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigSSS
BridgeSynchronized tremolo
TunersKluson Deluxe single-line
Nut Width1.65"
Finish Options3-Color Sunburst, Custom Colors (Fiesta Red, Daphne Blue, Olympic White, Sonic Blue, etc.)

Pickups & Electronics

Three staggered-pole single-coil pickups. The thick slab rosewood board gives a warmer, darker tone compared to the maple board predecessors.

What Changed in 1960

The thick 'slab' rosewood fingerboard is the defining feature of 1959-early 1962 Strats. Custom Color production increased — these finishes are among the most valuable vintage guitars.

Collector's Notes

Custom Color documentation (factory order records, original case, original hangtag) can double or triple the value of an already-valuable guitar. Slab rosewood board thickness confirms 1959-1962 production.