An original Fender icon, this '51 Nocaster is among one of the nicest examples you'll ever encounter

There's no denying that it's fun to navigate the technical aspects of such an important instrument, but when it comes down to it, it would be far less exciting if it didn't play or sound great. Worry not, future owner! This guitar is a monster! The neck carve is really special - a soft, but chunky V profile we often see in the late Blackguard and early Whiteguard Eras. Thanks to a prior refret, it plays smooth and retains nice vintage feel.

The original single coil pickups have that unmistakable voice that makes an early build like this really come to life through a great amp. Warm, smooth tones pop right out of the neck pickup, with a woody chirp to the top end that is really satisfying. Flip to the bridge pickup and hold on for dear life - it's a total fire-breathing tone monster! Despite its relatively modest registered output, it sounds like a pickup twice its readings. It's got an impressive amount of low end and low mid fundamental power, and yet it still cuts just like a great vintage Telecaster should.

While the guitar does show some play wear throughout, it's safe to say that it spent more time cased than it did on stage. The original Blonde finish is very thin and shows some forearm wear along with lacquer checking throughout. The neck shows typical fingerboard wear, and while it was expertly refretted some time ago, it seems that very little was disturbed for the sake of preservation.

The hardware is entirely original throughout, with the bridge plate and control plate maintaining their plating with a beautiful natural luster. The single line Kluson tuners have a nice natural patina and work very well. Even the original "ashtray" bridge cover is in great shape! The bakelite pickguard shows mostly like wear in the traditional picking areas, but hasn't been worn through much if at all. There are no cracks, breaks, or repairs to the material.

It includes its original Bulwin Thermometer case which is in exceptional original condition. These are among the most sought after vintage guitar cases in existence, and this particular case further proves just how well preserved of a Nocaster this is.

When it comes to original Fender electric guitars, only an original Broadcaster model edges the Nocaster out as the true originator. This is an historic guitar, and it's not lost on us just how special it is to experience an instrument so exemplary.

**Please note: Payment via wire transfer only. Expedited shipping is required**