1951 Fender Nocaster

This a killer example of the first-ever dual-pickup solid body design from Leo Fender. Leo originally released it as a "Broadcaster" but was issued a cease and desist by the Fred Gretsch Co. who had already trademarked "Broadkaster" for their line of acoustic drums. The solution was to remove the logo entirely thus leaving us with the iconic "Nocaster!" This example has a few modifications including a refin, replaced nut, updated frets, '53 pots, and a replaced tone knob. Sounds great with prominent acoustic resonance and the stock pickups sound super strong producing ideal Tele twang and clarity. A pleasant weight at 7lbs 6oz and the neck feels great with a pleasing taper and a medium/full soft "V" shape that cradles nicely in the palm. A killer guitar and a highly collectible, early piece of Fender's Legacy! Includes hardshell case.

Check out the feature from our luthier Tyler in the ECG Newsletter:

"Even among vintage blackguards, it doesn’t get much rarer than the coveted Fender 'Nocaster'. These white whales of the early American solid body guitar were only produced from February 22nd until September of 1951, tucked between the earliest Fender Broadcasters and the later Telecaster, which of course remains a staple to this day. This impromptu abandonment of the Broadcaster designation was brought on by a cease and desist letter from the Fred Gretsch Company, who had been producing a line of drums and banjos using the name 'Broadkaster'. Rather than have new headstock decals printed, the ever-frugal Fender decided simply to snip the model name from their Broadcaster decals, and use only the Fender name. This interim model became known affectionately as the 'Nocaster' and has become one of the most desirable vintage guitars on the market.
This particular example has seen some modifications, but is priced accordingly and is a tremendous instrument. An old refinish has aged beautifully with the guitar and has all the charm of a true original specimen. Both pots were changed very early in the guitar’s life, and date to 1953. A new nut and refret bring the guitar’s playability up to today’s standards, and allow the instrument’s formidable natural resonance to shine through. Original examples fetch well over $100,000, but this 'player grade' Nocaster is as good as any we’ve ever come across."