1978 Fender Precision Bass value

[WillEVee]

How can I find out the value of a '78 P-Bass?
The one in question is nowhere near what I'd consider "mint" condition. Pretty dirty really. And the body has been refinished (clear) as well.
Some feedback would be appreciated.

[godofthunder59]

Prices are WAY down right now. I just scored a very nice '74-'75 with ohsc for 1,000 bucks. It does however have a Dimarzio Model P and a Badass on it. I think you could find a VERY nice bass for 1,200-1,500 right now. I'd pay far less for a beater. My latest

[Kevin aka Kebo]

Dealers are still getting 1600 to 2200 for these with white basses that are CLEAN getting the top dollar. A typical Natural or Black that doesnt weigh 12 lbs we get 1600 to 1800 all day long

[WillEVee]

Yea this thing is not in the greatest shape.
Numerous chips in the finish on the neck, the refinish on the body is not a good one, the electronics are very dirty, input jack is broke, pots are scratchy & rough, poles are rusted...

[bassbully]

In my neck of the woods if it is un-modded $1400-1800 in top shape. If modded 1100-1400.00 They are not selling fast.

[WillEVee]

This one isn't modded. Just not in good shape.
I'm not that nostalgic about old Fenders. Especially CBS era. If I can't get it for well under $1000, considering the condition, I'd just as soon buy a 2013 model.

[WillEVee]

I appreciate the opinions but, is there a trusted/official source of information that I can reference for estimated value?
Online? Book? Magazine?

[smcd]

Originally Posted by WillEVee

I appreciate the opinions but, is there a trusted/official source of information that I can reference for estimated value?
Online? Book? Magazine?

Do what every single guitar dealer and pawn shop does - go to the "completed auction" section of ebay and see what they sold for.



A beat up, orginal '78 Pbass will sell for around $1,000. Mabye less depending on how banged up it is. Never mind what dealers claim these instruments sell for. That means nothing.

[xring]

I bought my 78 Ric 4001 for around 400 new, so it's more than a few bucks less than that.

[MIMike]

A refin? TOP dollar should be $1000, and that would be only if you love it! If its a great bass, regardless of what it's worth you should get it. In 1978 it was hit or miss with weight and quality. My first Fender was a 77 P-Bass that I bought brand new and played it for years, and loved it, before I traded it for my first J-Bass. In the last year I sold two of my P-Basses, a black, all orig. 1975 for $1000, and a all orig sunburst, awesome lightweight, factory fretless 1970 for $2000.

[Immigrant]

I'd offer $800 and walk away when it's refused. As others have said, you can get a beat up original finished one for a G.

[lowphatbass]

Unless it's really special $800 would be tops if it played well. Keep in mind also, a lot of Fenders with the "S8" serial #'s could actually be '79, 80 or 81. There's a lot of refinished Fenders out there, you're better off getting an original one for a few hundred bucks more...IMO.