Hello! I've browsed this forum for many years, but never had anything worth while to contribute. I recently came across a vintage Fender Mandocaster (listed as '63), and was hoping in getting some thoughts on condition, date, etc.
I've done my research, found the following information on websites, listings, etc to attempt as best as possible to date.
The pots are CTS 137917, (16th week of '59) and as best I can tell, original with no work done to them. Fretboard is roseweood, indicating later than '58.
I read this on one site, which is why I think maybe the seller listed it as a '63
But then found this on a listing on Reverb, which my neck also has no date either.During the 1950's, Fender used mostly Stackpole (#304) pots. Then in roughly early 1963, they changed to CTS (#137) pots.
Period correct 1959 no pencil date on neck
There's a lot of different info out there, and any insight would be much appreciated!
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