As early as the 1970s, musicians and collectors began to recognize the value of older

instruments. The mass production of both acoustic and electric guitars in that era served to
highlight the quality workmanship and materials of the older instruments. Historians, such
as George Gruhn, helped to codify both the monetary value and sound quality of these
guitars for both collectors and musicians.
Examples of well-known vintage electric guitars are 1950s and 1960s era Fender
Stratocaster and Telecaster and Gibson Les Paul. Also, Vox, Gretsch, Rickenbacker,
and Epiphone. Examples of well-known vintage bass guitars are 1950s and 1960s
era Fender Precision Bass. Although less well-known and not as financially valuable, older
electric guitars under the names of Harmony, Danelectro or Kay are becoming increasingly
collectible.
Examples of well-known vintage acoustic guitars are Martin and Gibson models typically
previous to the 1970s and 1930s era Recording Kings, among others.