Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

I learned to play on this guitar when I was about 14. My father purchased it new, but never really played it. We replaced the plastic, but that is it.

From what I gather, it is a 1958 400 series, but I don't know much else. I've just pulled it out of storage after several decades and it is in great shape. Where can I learn more about it?

Welcome. Very nice! What do you want to know?

There is a little bit of information on Bjorn Eriksson's Rickenbacker page: http://www.rickbeat.com.

Click on the "R" logo next to "Models" on the left hand side of the home page, then click on Model 425.

You can also go to the Rickenbacker company website, http://www.rickenbacker.com, hover your mouse over Service on the top menu bar and then select Model Identification. Put your information in and you will get thumbnails of some photos that they have in their database. You can also use their serial number decoder to try to confirm the date of your guitar (the truss rod cover looks like an early one!).

Thanks so much for the help. The serial number is stamped really lightly/angled, so it is hard to read. It looks like 4C367, so manufactured in 1953 as a 400 series. The Rickbeat website has a match for a 425 model based on the shape, knobs/switch, etc., just the truss rod cover looking different. That is different from what I was told about the age, so that helps.

I guess I just wanted a bit of history, and perhaps wondered if I was sitting on something rare. Sort of like when a beginner learns to play on a Stradivarius. I muddled around looking, but your resources have already given me more than I had found. Again, thank you!

Edit: I actually got rid of the amp years ago, kicking myself....

Brett - the RIC serial number decoder does not work for pre 1960 guitars.

It is likely 1959ish. The CTS pots should narrow it down for you.

This one is a few serial numbers away from yours. 4C346.

http://www.rickresource.com/register/vi ... 6order%3D5


There are about a 100 of these 400 series guitars in the register circa 1956 to 1960. Follow the pics to see the differences in construction details.
http://www.rickresource.com/register/in ... 4C&order=5

I have nothing to add in regards to information. I just had to comment on how pristine this guitar is

I'd say its a late '59 or even a '60, judging by the finish..strap has a printed logo which is period ( I thought it was a stamped logo when I looked at it first)....

And MAN that guitar is in nice shape....looks almost new. Sweet..!