Vintage Fender Stratocaster - USA 1956

The 1956 Fender Stratocaster is a legendary model from the golden era of Fender’s production, representing the height of mid-century electric guitar innovation. Introduced in 1954, the Stratocaster rapidly became a defining instrument for rock, blues, and pop music. By 1956, Fender had refined its design, offering features like the contoured alder body and the distinctive "V" neck profile, which made these guitars exceptionally comfortable to play. This example is from October 1956, with matching neck and body dates, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that defined this period of Fender's history.

This particular Stratocaster is in excellent player-grade condition, with all original components aside from a rewound middle pickup. The rewind was performed by the highly respected Australian luthier Greg Fryer, ensuring that the sound remains authentic and dynamic. The original pickups deliver the classic bell-like tones and shimmering highs that Stratocasters are renowned for, while the guitar's lightweight 7.28lb body offers a superb balance of resonance and playability. The pot codes (304633) confirm a 1956 production date, further verifying its vintage authenticity. While the tremolo cover plate is missing, the guitar retains its original hard case (non-OHSC in photos), adding to its collector appeal. This '56 has had a refret at some stage, and as a result has plenty of fret life left. The two tone knobs look to have been replaced with knobs from later in the 50s.

Despite its excellent condition, this Stratocaster proudly wears its battle scars from nearly seven decades of music-making. The body displays buckle rash, chipped pickup covers, cracks in the pickguard and the dents and dings expected of an instrument that has been lovingly played for 69 years. These marks tell a story of a guitar that has been cherished and used, rather than stored away, giving it undeniable character. Whether appreciated as a historic collector’s piece or for its exceptional playability and tonal quality, this 1956 Fender Stratocaster is a remarkable instrument that embodies the soul of vintage Fender craftsmanship.

Features:

Action at 1st fret: 0.5mm

Action at 12th fret: 2.0m

Neck depth at 1st fret: 23.43mm

Neck depth at 12th fret: 25.15mm

Nut Width: 41.79mm

12 fret width: 51.76mm

Weight: 3.3kg / 7.28lb

Neck date: 10/56

Body date: 10/56

Pot codes: 304633

Neck plate serial number: 160XX = 1956 

Bridge pickup: 5.53 ohms 

Middle pickup: 6.10 ohms

Neck pickup: 5.58 ohms

Case: Non-OHSC (pictured) with OHSC available