The Complete Gretsch Guitar Price Guide 2026: That Great Gretsch Sound Since 1883

Last updated: January 2026

When George Harrison stepped onto The Ed Sullivan Show stage in 1964 wielding his Gretsch Country Gentleman, he didn't just introduce The Beatles to America—he cemented Gretsch's place in rock history. When Brian Setzer bought his '59 6120 for $300 in the late 1970s, he didn't know it would spark a rockabilly revival and send vintage Gretsch prices into the stratosphere. From Chet Atkins' country twang to Eddie Cochran's rock and roll rebellion, Gretsch has delivered "That Great Gretsch Sound" for over 140 years.

Gretsch offers a distinctive alternative to Gibson and Fender—hollowbody and semi-hollow guitars with Filter'Tron pickups that deliver a jangly, articulate tone unlike anything else. This guide breaks down Gretsch pricing across all collections, from budget-friendly Streamliners to USA Custom Shop masterpieces.

Gretsch Guitar Market Overview 2026

Gretsch has experienced strong appreciation, particularly for vintage instruments and Professional Collection models. The Fender partnership (since 2002) has ensured consistent quality and availability.

Key Market Statistics:

• Average Used Gretsch Price: $1,450 (up 5% from 2024)
• Active Listings: Approximately 3,200 guitars currently for sale
• Monthly Sales Volume: Around 890 guitars sold per month
• Price Range: $250 (Streamliner) to $25,000+ (vintage White Falcon)

The market divides into three distinct segments: vintage (pre-1981), modern Professional/Players Edition, and accessible Electromatic/Streamliner lines.

Understanding Gretsch's Manufacturing Eras

Gretsch production location significantly impacts value and quality:

Brooklyn Era (1883-1970)

The original golden age of Gretsch, with production at the Brooklyn factory:

• Hand-built instruments with exceptional character
• Introduction of iconic models: White Falcon (1954), 6120 (1955), Country Gentleman (1958)
• Filter'Tron pickups developed in-house
• Most valuable vintage instruments

Value Premium: 1950s-1960s Brooklyn Gretsch guitars are the most collectible, with pristine examples commanding premium prices.

Baldwin Era (1967-1981)

After Fred Gretsch Jr. sold to Baldwin in 1967:

• Production moved to Booneville, Arkansas (1970)
• Factory fires in 1973 disrupted production
• Quality control issues plagued this period
• Production ceased entirely in 1981

Value Note: Baldwin-era Gretsch guitars are significantly less valuable, often 50-70% less than equivalent Brooklyn models.

Revival Era (1985-2002)

Fred W. Gretsch III reacquired the brand in 1985:

• Production resumed in 1989
• Focus on reissues of classic models
• Japanese manufacturing introduced
• Quality improved steadily

Fender Partnership Era (2002-Present)

Fender's 2002 partnership brought manufacturing expertise while the Gretsch family retained ownership:

• Professional Collection built at Terada factory in Japan
• Electromatic and Streamliner lines offer accessibility
• USA Custom Shop for bespoke instruments
• Consistent quality across all lines

Professional Collection Pricing (Japan-Made)

The Professional Collection represents premium Gretsch quality built in Japan.

White Falcon (G6136): $4,000-$5,500

The White Falcon is Gretsch's flagship—introduced in 1954 as "the finest guitar we know how to make."

G6136T-WHT Players Edition White Falcon Specifications:

• Body: Laminated maple hollowbody
• Top: Arched laminated maple
• Neck: Maple with ebony fingerboard
• Pickups: TV Jones Filter'Tron or High Sensitive Filter'Trons
• Hardware: Gold Bigsby B6GP, gold Grover Imperial tuners
• Finish: White with gold sparkle binding

White Falcon Pricing:

• G6136T-WHT Professional: ~$4,499
• G6136T-59 Vintage Select: ~$5,500
• Vintage 1955-1960 White Falcon: $15,000-$25,000+

6120 Chet Atkins Series: $2,800-$3,700

The 6120 is perhaps the most iconic Gretsch model, developed with country legend Chet Atkins in 1955.

G6120T-59 Vintage Select '59 Chet Atkins Specifications:

• Body: Laminated maple hollowbody
• Neck: Maple with ebony fingerboard
• Pickups: TV Jones T-Armond single-coils (neck) and TV Jones Classic (bridge)
• Hardware: Bigsby B6G tailpiece
• Finish: Vintage Orange Stain lacquer

6120 Pricing:

• G6120T-59 Vintage Select: ~$3,679
• G6120T Nashville: ~$2,799
• G6120DE Duane Eddy: ~$3,299
• Used Professional 6120: $2,000-$2,800
• Vintage 1956-1960 6120: $10,000-$16,000+

Country Gentleman (G6122): ~$3,100

Made famous by George Harrison, the Country Gentleman features a double-cutaway design:

G6122TG Players Edition Country Gentleman Specifications:

• Body: Laminated maple semi-hollow
• Neck: Maple with ebony fingerboard
• Pickups: High Sensitive Filter'Trons
• Hardware: Bigsby B6CBGSB

Country Gentleman Pricing:

• G6122TG Players Edition: ~$3,099
• Used Professional: $2,200-$2,800
• Vintage 1958-1965: $3,000-$6,000

Professional Jet Series: $2,500-$2,800

Gretsch's solidbody alternative to the hollowbodies:

G6128T-GH George Harrison Duo Jet:

• Body: Chambered mahogany
• Top: Maple
• Pickups: TV Jones DynaSonic single-coils
• Price: ~$2,999

G6129T Players Edition Jet:

• Body: Chambered mahogany with maple top
• Pickups: High Sensitive Filter'Trons
• Price: ~$2,799

Other Professional Models

• G6120T-HR Brian Setzer Hot Rod: ~$3,299
• G6119T-ET Players Edition Tennessee Rose: ~$2,699
• G6609TFM Players Edition Broadkaster: ~$2,499

Electromatic Collection Pricing

The Electromatic Collection delivers authentic Gretsch features at accessible prices.

Electromatic Jet Models: $399-$699

Electromatic Jet Club (G5210):

• Entry-level solidbody
• Single-coil Broad'Tron pickups
• Price: ~$399

Electromatic Jet FT (G5220/G5230):

• Chambered body with maple top
• PureVolt Twin Six humbuckers (2024+)
• Bigsby available
• Price: $629-$699

Used Pricing: $300-$500 (excellent condition)

Electromatic Center-Block Models: $799-$999

Semi-hollow with center block for feedback resistance:

G5622T Electromatic Center-Block:

• Spruce center block
• Broad'Tron humbuckers
• Bigsby vibrato
• Price: ~$799

G5655TG Electromatic Center-Block Jr.:

• Smaller body size
• Gold hardware
• Price: ~$799

Used Pricing: $500-$700 (excellent condition)

Electromatic Hollowbody Models: $799-$999

Traditional full hollowbody construction:

G5420T Electromatic Classic:

• Full-depth hollowbody
• Broad'Tron pickups
• Bigsby B60 tailpiece
• Price: ~$799

G5422TG Electromatic 12-String:

• Hollowbody 12-string
• Gold hardware
• Price: ~$899

Used Pricing: $550-$750 (excellent condition)

Electromatic CVT Series: ~$599

Inspired by Jack Antonoff signature:

• Solid mahogany body
• Bolt-on maple neck
• Twin Six humbuckers
• Modern styling

Streamliner Collection Pricing

Budget-friendly entry to Gretsch styling:

Streamliner Jet: $299-$399

G2210 Streamliner Jet Club:

• Solid body
• Broad'Tron BT-2S humbuckers
• Wraparound tailpiece
• Price: ~$299

G2215-P90 Streamliner Jet Club:

• P-90 pickups
• Price: ~$349

Used Pricing: $180-$280 (excellent condition)

Streamliner Center Block: $449-$549

G2622T Streamliner Center Block:

• Double-cutaway semi-hollow
• Bigsby B50 tailpiece
• Price: ~$449

Used Pricing: $300-$400 (excellent condition)

Streamliner Hollowbody: $399-$499

G2420T Streamliner Hollowbody:

• Full-depth single-cutaway
• Broad'Tron pickups
• Price: ~$399

Used Pricing: $250-$350 (excellent condition)

USA Custom Shop Pricing

Handcrafted masterpieces built in the USA:

Custom Shop White Falcon: $7,000-$10,000

USA-made flagship with bespoke options:

• Hand-selected woods
• Custom finishes available
• TV Jones or Custom Shop pickups

Custom Shop Penguin: $7,400-$8,400

G6134CS Penguin Masterbuilt:

• Solidbody design
• Custom Shop Filter'Trons
• Various relic and NOS options
• Example: Stephen Stern Masterbuilt Silver Sparkle: ~$7,399

Custom Shop Roundup: ~$6,800

G6130-54 Tuxedo Roundup NOS:

• Vintage-spec recreation
• Masterbuilt by Chad Henrichsen
• Authentic 1950s appointments

Custom Shop 6120: $6,000-$9,000

Hand-built Chet Atkins tributes with vintage specifications.

Vintage Gretsch Valuation Guide

1950s Golden Age Values

The most collectible Gretsch guitars:

White Falcon (G6136):

• 1955-1958: $20,000-$35,000
• 1959-1962: $15,000-$25,000
• Stereo models: Additional premium

6120 Chet Atkins:

• 1955-1958: $13,000-$18,000
• 1959-1960: $11,000-$16,000
• 1961-1965: $7,000-$12,000

Country Club (G6196):

• 1950s: $5,000-$10,000

1960s Values

Country Gentleman (G6122):

• 1958-1961: $5,000-$8,000
• 1962-1967: $3,500-$5,500
• George Harrison provenance: Significant premium

Tennessean (G6119):

• 1958-1965: $4,000-$7,000

Duo Jet (G6128):

• 1953-1959: $8,000-$15,000
• 1960-1965: $5,000-$9,000

Value Factors for Vintage Gretsch

1. Production Era: Brooklyn > Baldwin
2. Originality: Original pickups, hardware, finish critical
3. Binding Condition: Shrinkage common on 1960s models
4. Bigsby: Original Bigsby adds value
5. Documentation: Original case, paperwork important
6. Artist Association: Harrison, Cochran, Setzer provenance increases value

Where to Buy Gretsch Guitars: Platform Comparison

Online Marketplace Analysis

Reverb (Average Price: $1,600)

• Best selection of vintage and Professional Collection
• Strong authentication community
• 6.2% price appreciation year-over-year
• Best for: Vintage, Professional Collection, signature models

eBay (Average Price: $1,300)

• Larger selection, variable quality
• More Electromatic and Streamliner options
• 4.5% price trend
• Best for: Budget finds, common models

Guitar Center Used (Average Price: $1,400)

• Physical inspection available
• 45-day return policy
• 5.0% appreciation
• Best for: Try-before-buy, trade-ins

Vintage Dealers (Average Price: $8,500)

• Expertise in authentication
• Premium vintage selection
• 12% appreciation on collectibles
• Best for: Investment-grade vintage

Tips for Buying Used Gretsch Guitars

1. Check Binding: Vintage Gretsch binding shrinks and cracks—common but affects playability
2. Inspect Pickups: Original Filter'Trons or TV Jones? Replacements affect value
3. Bigsby Setup: Verify tuning stability—improper setup creates frustration
4. Serial Number Research: Confirms era and authenticity
5. Neck Condition: Check for twists or resets
6. F-hole Labels: Original labels verify authenticity on vintage models

Gretsch vs. Gibson vs. Fender Semi-Hollows

For buyers considering semi-hollow options:

Gretsch Advantage: Unique Filter'Tron tone that can't be replicated. The jangly, chimey character defines rockabilly and early rock and roll.

Investment Potential: Which Gretsch Models Appreciate?

Strong Investment Candidates

1950s White Falcon:

• Consistent appreciation (8-12% annually)
• Iconic status ensures demand
• Museum-quality examples exceed $30,000

1955-1960 6120:

• Eddie Cochran and Brian Setzer associations
• Strong collector base
• Original-condition examples increasingly rare

Artist Signature Vintage:

• George Harrison Country Gentleman
• Brian Setzer Hot Rod
• Documented provenance critical

Models for Players (Value, Not Investment)

• Electromatic series: Excellent players, typical depreciation
• Streamliner series: Budget-friendly, minimal resale
• Players Edition: Quality instruments, modest appreciation

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Gretsch

For Beginners ($250-$500)

Recommended Models:

• Streamliner Jet Club (G2210): Best entry solidbody at ~$299
• Streamliner Center Block (G2622): Semi-hollow value at ~$449
• Used Electromatic Jet: Quality upgrade at used prices

What to Prioritize:

• Playable action and setup
• Functional electronics
• Solid construction

For Intermediate Players ($600-$1,500)

Recommended Models:

• Electromatic Jet FT (G5220): Quality solidbody at ~$679
• Electromatic Center-Block (G5622T): Semi-hollow excellence at ~$799
• Used Professional Jet: Premium quality at used prices

What to Prioritize:

• Quality pickups (Broad'Tron or better)
• Bigsby if desired (adds versatility)
• Professional setup

For Professionals/Collectors ($2,500+)

Recommended Models:

• Professional 6120: Iconic Gretsch at ~$2,800-$3,700
• Professional White Falcon: Ultimate statement at ~$4,500
• USA Custom Shop: Bespoke excellence at $6,800+
• Vintage 1950s-1960s: Investment and tone

What to Prioritize:

• TV Jones or original Filter'Tron pickups
• Japan or USA manufacture
• Original condition for vintage
• Documentation and provenance

Famous Gretsch Players and Their Guitars

Gretsch's artist legacy is remarkable:

• Chet Atkins: 6120, Country Gentleman, Tennessean (developed signature models)
• George Harrison: Country Gentleman, Tennessean (Beatles era)
• Brian Setzer: 6120 Hot Rod (Stray Cats, solo career)
• Eddie Cochran: Modified 6120 with P-90 (rock and roll pioneer)
• Duane Eddy: 6120 (twangy instrumental rock)
• Malcolm Young: White Falcon, Jet Firebird (AC/DC rhythm)
• Billy Duffy: White Falcon (The Cult)
• Chris Cheney: 6120 (The Living End)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Gretsch guitars hard to play? A: Gretsch hollowbodies have larger bodies than Fender or Gibson solidbodies, which some players find less comfortable seated. However, neck profiles are generally comfortable, and the sound is uniquely rewarding. Electromatic and Streamliner Jets offer more traditional playing feel.

Q: Do Gretsch guitars stay in tune with Bigsby? A: When properly set up, yes. Common issues include improper string break angle, worn nut slots, or user error. A good setup is essential. Many players add a roller bridge or GraphTech nut for improved stability.

Q: What's the difference between Filter'Tron and Broad'Tron pickups? A: Filter'Trons (Professional Collection) are Gretsch's signature pickup—bright, jangly, articulate with lower output. Broad'Trons (Electromatic/Streamliner) are higher-output humbuckers designed to approximate Filter'Tron character at lower cost. Both are excellent but tonally different.

Q: Are Electromatic Gretsch guitars good? A: Excellent. The Electromatic line offers authentic Gretsch features—proper binding, quality hardware, good pickups—at accessible prices. Many professional players use Electromatics on stage and in studios.

Q: Why are vintage Gretsch guitars so expensive? A: Combination of historical significance, limited supply (1950s-1960s production), and strong demand from collectors and players. Artist associations (Harrison, Setzer, Cochran) drive prices higher. Original-condition examples are increasingly rare.

Q: Are Gretsch guitars good for rock? A: Absolutely. While associated with rockabilly and country, Gretsch guitars have been used across rock genres—Malcolm Young's Jet powered AC/DC's rhythm, Billy Duffy's White Falcon defined The Cult's sound. The Jet solidbodies are particularly versatile for rock.

Conclusion

Gretsch represents one of guitar history's most distinctive voices. No other manufacturer delivers quite the same combination of visual drama, historical significance, and sonic character. From the gleaming gold hardware of a White Falcon to the raw power of a Duo Jet, Gretsch guitars demand attention.

For buyers, the current lineup offers something at every price point. The Streamliner collection makes Gretsch accessible to beginners. The Electromatic line delivers professional-quality instruments at mid-range prices. The Professional Collection and Players Edition offer Japan-built excellence. And the USA Custom Shop creates handcrafted masterpieces.

Vintage Gretsch represents both investment opportunity and tonal heritage. A 1950s 6120 doesn't just play well—it connects you to Chet Atkins, Eddie Cochran, and the birth of rock and roll. That's worth something beyond mere dollars.

Whether you're chasing Brian Setzer's rockabilly fire, George Harrison's British Invasion jangle, or simply want a guitar that looks and sounds unlike anything else, Gretsch delivers "That Great Gretsch Sound"—and has for 142 years.

For the most current pricing and availability, always verify with authorized Gretsch dealers or the official Gretsch website. Prices fluctuate based on market conditions and model availability.

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