Unveiling the Collectibility of Fender vs Gibson Guitars

Introduction

In the world of guitar collecting, no brand holds a more revered status than Fender or Gibson. Both companies have been crafting iconic instruments for decades, producing models that are both beloved by musicians and highly sought after by collectors. This article aims to explore whether Fender or Gibson guitars are more collectible, delving into historical context, manufacturing origins, and the factors that contribute to a guitar's value and desirability.

The Historical Context

Both Fender and Gibson have a rich and storied history. Founded in the early 20th century, each brand has a unique story to tell. Fender, originally founded in 1946, became known for its innovative designs and the amplification revolution it initiated. Gibson, on the other hand, has a longer history, dating back to 1894, and has been synonymous with the classic sounds of rock and roll, blues, and jazz.

One of the key distinctions between the two brands lies in their manufacturing origins. While Fender has seen its production distributed across multiple countries and manufacturers, Gibson guitars continue to be made primarily in the USA by the Gibson Manufacturing Company. This localized production has contributed significantly to their collectibility, as there is a certain appeal in owning instruments that are steeped in American craftsmanship.

Market Value and Appreciation

When it comes to market value, both Fender and Gibson guitars can fetch astronomically high prices, often breaking collectors' records. For instance, a 1959 Les Paul by Gibson can command a price in the low six figures, whereas a 1950s Fender Stratocaster or Telecaster might be about half that value, unless played by an iconic performer such as David Gilmour, whose Blackie Strat sold for a staggering seven figures at auction.

The pricing disparity is evident in the accessibility of these guitars. Even entry-level Gibsons, like a basic Melody Maker or LS6 S1, often fetch over $1,000. Meanwhile, more desirable models, such as the Les Paul Explorer V or Firebird, can still command upwards of $10,000 or more, depending on age and condition.

Interestingly, in the mid-1980s, a 1965 Gibson Non-Reverse Firebird III was purchased for $300, and a pre-CBS Jazzmaster '63, with some custom modifications, was bought for $275. Fast forward to today, and the same guitar parts have substantially increased in value. The P90 pickups from a Gibson now command $300 each, and a Fender neck can go for over $1,000. This stark contrast in value reflects the growing interest and demand in these vintage instruments.

Collectibility vs. Musical Utility

It's essential to understand that not all guitars produced by Fender and Gibson are considered collectible. Both brands have a range of models that are more focused on performance than collectibility. However, when it comes to highly collectible guitars, the USA-made Fenders and Gibsons tend to be the most sought after.

Acoustic guitars by Fender, for example, are generally not considered collectible. In contrast, Gibson acoustic guitars are highly collectible, with many models fetching premium prices due to their unique history and craftsmanship. The disparity in the collectibility of acoustic guitars further underscores the unique appeal of Gibson instruments.

Market Reality and Personal Value

Ultimately, the collectibility of a Gibson or Fender guitar is often determined by its historical significance and provenance. While some guitars might be played on stage and in recording studios, becoming dear to their owners and highly valued collectors, many others are appreciated for their craftsmanship and design, rather than their musical utility. It's not uncommon to see vintage guitars hanging on walls rather than being played as often.

For instance, the author owns a 1969 Martin D35, a model and year that are famous in the guitar community. Purchased in 1971, this instrument is now 55 years old and has seen better days, with dings and a faded neck finish. Although it is still worth more than a brand new D35, its worth is less "out of this world." However, because it was used in live performances and recording sessions with famous musicians, it holds a special place in the author's life and is considered collectable by only one person—themselves.

In essence, while both Fender and Gibson guitars have a high collectability level, the overall collectibility of a Gibson tends to outweigh that of a Fender. This is largely due to their localized production in the USA and their storied musical history. Nevertheless, both brands offer musicians and collectors alike a wealth of incredible instruments, each with its own unique story to tell. Whether you prioritize musical utility or collectibility, the history and craftsmanship of Fender and Gibson guitars ensure they remain iconic instruments for generations to come.