1961 Fender Stratocaster – One-Owner

For your consideration, Garrett Park Guitars presents this exceptional 1961 Fender Stratocaster.

This Stratocaster was purchased new in 1961 for $289.50—the equivalent of more than $3,000 today—a princely sum for an aspiring musician anytime. A great investment, it was an instrument the young man could grow into, and he treasured it for the rest of his life before passing it down to his daughter. Originally purchased in Maryland, it spent almost its whole life in Glen Burnie MD and on his passing it was left to his daughter from whom we acquired it. This guitar reflects decades of careful custodianship; it remains in excellent, all-original condition, complete with its original tremolo arm, bridge cover, and brown Tolex case.

Behind that clean preservation lies a voice that delivers everything a player could ask for from a slab-board Strat. It produces the rich, bell-like chime of each individual pickup alongside the unmistakable Strat "quack" of the in-between positions. This classic voice is anchored by its trio of original black-bottom pickups and Stackpole pots dated to June 1961 to match the neck, while the body carries a May 1961 pencil date.

Offering a rare blend of a family provenance, untouched originality, and unmistakable pre-CBS tone, this 1961 Stratocaster stands as a true investment-grade piece ready for both the stage and the vault.

Specifications

All components original unless specified otherwise

Model & Year

• Model: Fender Stratocaster
• Year of manufacture: 1961
• Serial Number: 60446
• Weight: 7lbs 14oz

Body

• Date: 5/61
• Material: Alder
• Finish: Sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer

Neck

• Date: 6/61
• Material & Construction: Maple bolt-on
• Fingerboard: Rosewood slab
• Profile shape: Medium C
• Scale Length: 25.5"
• Radius: 7.25"
• Nut Width: 1.66"
• Depth: .80" (1st), .97" (12th)
• Inlays: Clay dots
• Frets: Original
• Tuners: Kluson Deluxe single-lines
• Headstock: Spaghetti logo waterslide decal

Hardware

• Bridge / Tailpiece: Synchronized tremolo
• Pickguard: 3-ply (WBW), "mint green"
• Knobs: Original

Electronics

• Pickups: Fender black-bottom single coils
  • Bridge: 5.48K
  • Middle: 5.59K
  • Neck: 5.47K
• Potentiometers: Stackpole 250K (304-6123)
• Wiring: Cloth-insulated
• Switch: CRL 1452

Condition

• Cosmetic: Excellent with below-average play-wear and lacquer checking
• Structural: Excellent with no cracks or repair history
• Accessories: Original brown Tolex hardshell case