Gretsch Duo Jet Price Guide
The Gretsch Duo Jet is a solid (or semi-hollow) body electric guitar introduced in 1953, featuring a distinctive 'jet black' finish and DeArmond or Filter'Tron pickups. George Harrison played a Duo Jet early in the Beatles' career, and the model remains one of the most collectible early Gretsch electrics. Despite its name and appearance, the body contains chambering rather than being fully solid.
Produced: 1953–present
📖 Buyer's Guide
Early DynaSonic-equipped Duo Jets (1953-1958) are the most collectible. Verify pickup originality — Filter'Trons replaced DynaSonics in 1958. The jet black finish can fade to a dark brown over decades, which is considered desirable. Check headstock and neck joint carefully, as early Gretsches can develop cracks at these stress points.
Value by Year
| Year | Excellent | Very Good | Good | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1953 | $18,000–$36,000 | $11,000–$18,000 | $7,000–$11,000 | Full Details → |
| 1954 | $16,000–$32,000 | $10,000–$16,000 | $6,500–$10,000 | Full Details → |
| 1955 | $14,000–$28,000 | $9,000–$14,000 | $5,800–$9,000 | Full Details → |
| 1956 | $14,000–$28,000 | $9,000–$14,000 | $5,800–$9,000 | Full Details → |
| 1957 | $14,000–$28,000 | $9,000–$14,000 | $5,800–$9,000 | Full Details → |
| 1958 | $12,000–$25,000 | $7,800–$12,000 | $5,000–$7,800 | Full Details → |
| 1959 | $11,000–$22,000 | $7,000–$11,000 | $4,500–$7,000 | Full Details → |
| 1960 | $11,000–$22,000 | $7,000–$11,000 | $4,500–$7,000 | Full Details → |
| 1961 | $10,000–$20,000 | $6,500–$10,000 | $4,100–$6,500 | Full Details → |
| 1962 | $10,000–$20,000 | $6,500–$10,000 | $4,100–$6,500 | Full Details → |
| 1963 | $9,000–$18,000 | $5,800–$9,000 | $3,700–$5,800 | Full Details → |