1970 Rickenbacker 381

This is 1 of the most sought after Rickenbacker models ever produced during the late 60’s. You’re looking at a 1970 Rickenbacker 381 model w/its fully carved body front & back in their most desirable Fireglo finish all over. It’s Rick’s fanciest guitar having their “checkerboard” bindings both top & back of its deco shaped body. Its 3 piece maple & walnut neck have a great feel & its lacquered padouk fingerboard has white binding and the beautiful triangle “crushed pearl” inlays discontinued in the early ’70s. Up top are a set of Kluson double line tuners. This example dates to the first months of the year (the serial number “JD” indicates completion in April ’70 and the original pots are dated 6617 for the 17th week of 1966) and retains some features of earlier ’60s models. Its new pickup design post-Toaster was called the “381” pickups or formally known as “Hi-Gain” pickups w/tiny adjustable pole pieces. It’s equipped w/their early Rick-O-Sound stereo electronics. All hardware remains original including both pickups, the 2 piece stepped white pickguard, the pots & switch, the cast bridge, white headstock logo plate & strap buttons. The original frets and lacquered fingerboard show very little wear and both truss rods are functional; this 381 never had any of the fingerboard separations common on older Rickenbacker’s from truss rod over tightening. It’s truly exceptional in all respects. It’s as significant as any Rickenbacker guitar ever produced & is 100% original & comes in its original Black Tolex hard case.