1969 Gretsch Clipper

by nate messer
(grafton, ohio)

I have a 1969 gretsch hollow body electric guitar. I dont know the model though, the sticker that is supposed to be inside the body is missing. The serial number is 29106 and is stamped on the back of the head with "made in the usa" next to the serial number. I have the original case with it. The guitar has never been refinished or had any work done to it as far as i know. I have had it for about twenty years. Curious what it is worth.

ANSWER

Hi, Nate--

I looked at all of the electric hollow bodies made by Gretsch during that time frame, and the closest seems to be the "Clipper" model, although there are minor difference. Unfortunately the model can't be traced through the serial number.

Here is the Blue Book general info:

CLIPPER MODEL 6185/6186/6187/7555
- single round cutaway maple body, arched top, two f-holes, double bound top and back, maple neck, 21-fret ebony fingerboard with white dot inlay, blackface peghead with logo, three-per-side tuners with plastic buttons, adj. ebony bridge, trapeze tailpiece, raised pickguard with logo, one or two exposed DeArmond pickups, volume/tone control, chrome hardware, available in Natural (Model 6187) or Sunburst (Model 6186/6185/7555) finish, 24.5 in. scale, mfg. 1958-1975.

The pricing info:

1969-1971
Mint $950
Exc.+ $750
Exc. $625
Avg.+ $525
Avg. $425
General $325

Lynne

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