1955 Fender Telecaster

The mid-1950s Telecaster at full maturity. The guitar that dominated country recording studios and influenced every solid-body electric that followed. One-piece maple neck, ash body, and that uniquely cutting Tele sound.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$30,000$60,000
Very Good
$18,000$30,000
Good
$11,000$18,000
Fair
$5,500$11,000

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

Specifications

Body WoodAsh (two-piece)
Neck WoodMaple (one-piece)
FingerboardMaple (integral)
Scale Length25.500"
Frets21
Pickup ConfigSS
BridgeStamped steel bridge (3 brass barrel saddles)
TunersKluson Deluxe single-line
Finish OptionsBlonde, Custom colors
Est. Production2,800

Pickups & Electronics

Two single-coil pickups. Three-way switch. The classic Tele sound fully developed.

What Changed in 1955

The Telecaster was fully mature as a design. Small production refinements continued. These are the Telecasters that defined the Nashville country sound and influenced early rock and roll.

Collector's Notes

Neck date stamps are critical for precise dating. Look for original black bakelite pickguard, original pickup covers, and original wiring. Many 1950s Teles have been modified for players' needs — affects value significantly.