'76 Thunderbird value?

Rotwang · #1 11-06-2011, 09:40 AM

Just bought this bass from a friend of mine for $1,200.00. It still has the pickup and bridge covers. The bridge volume pot is a little dodgy at times, and probably will be replaced. Bud screwed the strap on using the original strap buttons. I was wondering what these go for these days. Did I get a good deal? PS: Headstock is not broken!

TBird1958 · #2 11-06-2011, 10:06 AM

Good examples with all their parts actually trade around 2000.00 to 2500.00 lately so I'd say you got a very good deal. It looks like the S/N is decalled on which would make it either a true '76 or a '77 both years have low production totals, more info here:
1976 Gibson Bicentennial Thunderbird bass

Congratulations on your new bass!

slaps76 · #3 11-06-2011, 10:07 AM

Sweet!!

Rotwang · #4 11-06-2011, 10:29 AM

The serial # is 00 XXXXXX, so it's a '76. It hadn't been out of it's case in about 12 years, which was when Bud last gigged with it. Both the bass and the case need a serious cleaning. I was kinda surprised at how big the dang thing is!

TBird1958 · #5 11-06-2011, 10:36 AM

They're not made for the timid of heart!

Go forth and rock that 'Bird!

Randall · #6 11-06-2011, 10:36 AM

My 76 case interior (it has a upper neck strap/holder looks a little different fyi but do not know if mine is original or not.
Very nice deal you got there

Randall · #7 11-06-2011, 10:50 AM

If you move the upper strap location from the original location neck dive is greatly reduced fyi.

godofthunder59 · #8 11-06-2011, 11:34 AM

No doubt about it great deal!