1970 Fender Stratocaster

The 1970 Stratocaster represents late CBS-era Fender — not the quality of pre-CBS, but genuine 1970s vintage instruments increasingly appreciated for their own character.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$4,000$8,000
Very Good
$2,200$4,800
Good
$1,400$3,200
Fair
$600$1,600

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

Specifications

Body WoodAlder (or Ash on some models)
Neck WoodMaple
FingerboardMaple (bolt-on maple cap, new option) or Rosewood
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigSSS
BridgeSynchronized tremolo (heavier cast block)
TunersF-stamped tuners
Finish OptionsSunburst, Natural, Various Colors

Pickups & Electronics

Three single-coil pickups. CBS-era — quality varies. Maple fingerboard option returned in 1970 after years of only rosewood.

What Changed in 1970

The maple fingerboard returned as an option in 1970. Bullet truss rod appeared. Bodies were sometimes heavier than earlier examples. 3-bolt neck appeared later in the decade.

Collector's Notes

Maple fingerboard 1970 Strats are more sought after than rosewood. These are the guitars that defined 1970s rock — functional vintage instruments at accessible prices.