Rickenbacker
Since 1931
Rickenbacker was founded in 1931 by Adolph Rickenbacker and George Beauchamp in Los Angeles, California, creating the world's first commercially successful electric guitar—the 'Frying Pan.' The company revolutionized music again in the 1960s when John Lennon, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney adopted Rickenbacker instruments, defining the British Invasion sound. Still handcrafted in Santa Ana, California, Rickenbacker maintains limited production with legendary quality, producing instruments famous for their distinctive jangle, chime, and the iconic 12-string sound that shaped rock history.
95
Years in Business
500K+
Guitars Sold
$15M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Rickenbacker Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Rickenbacker guitars.
Rickenbacker Price Overview
Rickenbacker covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$2,200
+5% vs last year
eBay Listings
1,800
Active listings
Sold This Month
320
+4% vs last month
Price Range
$1,200-$15,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Rickenbacker Timeline
Company Founded
Adolph Rickenbacker and George Beauchamp founded the company (originally Ro-Pat-In Corporation) in Los Angeles.
Frying Pan Introduced
The Rickenbacker Electro A-22 'Frying Pan' became the first commercially successful electric guitar.
Electric Guitar Patent
Received the first patent for an electric guitar on August 10, 1937.
Modern Era Begins
Introduced the 300 and 600 series guitars with the distinctive semi-hollow body design.
John Lennon's 325
John Lennon acquired his Rickenbacker 325 in Hamburg, beginning the Beatles-Rickenbacker association.
George Harrison's 360/12
George Harrison received the second 360/12 ever made, creating the iconic jangle sound of British Invasion.
Paul McCartney's 4001S
Paul McCartney adopted the left-handed 4001S bass, cementing Rickenbacker's bass legacy.
4001 Bass Introduced
Launched the 4001 bass with neck-through construction, which became the prog rock standard.
4003 Replaces 4001
The 4003 bass replaced the 4001, featuring updated electronics while maintaining the classic design.
Limited Edition Program
Expanded dealer-exclusive limited editions with vintage-spec models and unique finishes.
Complete Rickenbacker Product Lineup
Rickenbacker: The sound that launched the British Invasion, handcrafted in California since 1931
300 Series Guitars
Semi-hollow body jangle machines
Semi-hollow 6-string at ~$2,099
12-string jangle icon at ~$2,549
Rounded body 6-string at ~$2,549
Harrison's 12-string at ~$2,999
Vintage reissue 12-string at ~$3,899
Lennon's short-scale reissue
600 Series Guitars
Solid body electric guitars
Solid body 6-string at ~$2,699
Solid body 12-string at ~$3,099
Rounded body solid at ~$2,799
12-string variant at ~$3,199
4000 Series Bass
The legendary Rickenbacker bass line
Flagship bass at ~$2,499
Dot inlay variant at ~$2,299
5-string bass at ~$2,799
Walnut finish at ~$2,599
Vintage Reissues
Period-correct recreations
Lennon 1964 Ed Sullivan spec
Harrison 12-string reissue
1964 bass reissue
Dealer exclusives with vintage specs
Classic Finishes
Iconic Rickenbacker colors
Classic black finish
Iconic red sunburst
Natural maple finish
Deep blue metallic
"Rickenbacker: The sound that launched the British Invasion, handcrafted in California since 1931"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
300 Series Buying Guide
330 vs 360
330: Flat-top body with sharp edges. 360: Rounded body with bound edges. Both have identical electronics; choose by aesthetics and feel
12-String Magic
The 330/12 and 360/12 produce the legendary jangle. Note: Rickenbacker strings in reverse order (octave below, not above) creating unique chime
Limited Availability
All Rickenbacker guitars are handcrafted in Santa Ana, CA with limited production—expect wait times at dealers or premium on in-stock instruments
4003 Bass Buying Guide
4003 vs Vintage 4001
4003 (1984-present): Updated electronics, removed capacitor. Vintage 4001 (1961-1984): Original specs, toaster/horseshoe pickups. Both have neck-through construction
Rick-O-Sound Stereo
Both pickups can output separately via stereo jack—allows treble/bass pickup to different amps/effects. Essential for the Geddy Lee/Chris Squire sound
Neck Profile
Rickenbacker basses have slim, fast necks—different from Fender P/J feel. Try before buying if possible; the narrow nut width suits some players better than others
Vintage Rickenbacker Buying Guide
1960s Premium
1960s models (especially 1964-1969) command highest premiums—Beatles era. Toaster pickups indicate pre-1970; horseshoe pickups are earliest and rarest
Authenticity Check
Verify serial number with Rickenbacker directly. Check for original pickups, tailpiece, and tuners—replacements significantly affect value
Condition Impact
Unlike some vintage guitars, Rickenbacker value heavily depends on condition. Refinishes, replaced parts, or modifications substantially reduce collectible value