Vintage Fender Mustang 1965-1966 Electric Guitar- White with Original Hardshell Case

For sale is a classic piece of Fender history. The Mustang was first introduced as a student model in 1964. It features a smaller offset body with a 22 fret 24′ scale length neck giving the instrument a more relaxed string tension. The angled single coil pickups each have their own on-off-on switch above them with the knobs serving as a master tone and volume. The Fender Dynamic Vibrato Tailpiece is what really sets the Mustang apart. Combining a floating bridge with the vibrato tailpiece and a short slanted vibrato arm results in a highly expressive tremolo system that transfers movement in a much more direct way than previous tremolo systems. 

This model was produced originally from 1964 until it was discontinued in 1982. Owing to its relatively low cost at the time and the ease in which it could be modded, the Mustang gained a massive cult following in the 1990’s. Notable players include Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth, John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and, of course, Kurt Cobain of Nirvana. 

Because of how popular this guitar was as a modding platform it is exceedingly rare to find one with all original parts and paint. This instrument not only is all original, but also includes its original hardshell case. All of the electronics function just like they did in 1966 and the vibrato still has a crisp action. The body has a decent amount of dents and scratches consistent with age and use. Neck is straight and frets are decent player consistent with the age of the instrument. Hardware has developed a beautiful patina. Plastics and body paint have aged to a vintage cream color. Previous owner carved their driver’s license number on the bottom of the tailpiece and on the neck plate (see photos 17 and 18). 

The neck was produced in December of 1965. Serial number ‘111271’ on the neck plate dates this instrument to early 1966- likely using parts such as the neck that they had on hand. This was a common practice in the early CBS era of Fender. 

The original hardshell case functions to protect the instrument, but has some structural damage on the bottom corner of the case (see photos 22 and 23). The hardware on the case has developed a patina and there are some stains, scratches, and minor tears on the Tolex and leather. Included in the case is a decades old set of Fender strings and for all the Detroit fans out there- a hand written wiring diagram dated December 8th 1965 on old Stroh’s stationery.