A 1951 Fender Telecaster hand-built by the guitar's co-creator George Fullerton has sold at the top of Heritage Auctions' October 25 Vintage Guitars and Musical Instruments Signature Auction in Dallas.
 The Telecaster is legendary among guitarists, as the first mass produced solid body electric guitar |
The guitar sold for $43,750, accompanied by a letter from Fullerton that recounts the guitar's history.
George William Fullerton (1923-2009) was a co-founder of G&L Musical Instruments, alongside the legendary Leo Fender and Dale Hyatt. He is credited with the co-creation of the Telecaster in 1950, which was the first mass produced solid body electric guitar.
The guitar at auction, bearing serial number #0900, does not appear to have been played much during its lifetime, and is in fantastic condition with all the components verified as correct for the year. It was featured in the book Guitars by George Fullerton and Leo Fender, a copy of which accompanied the lot.
Adding to its appeal is a signature from Fullerton on the reverse, which was added in 1998.
 Since its release in 1954, the Fender Stratocaster has become perhaps the most widely played guitar, renowned for its versatility |
Also featuring in the sale was a fine example of an early Fender Stratocaster, which brought the second highest bids at $40,625.
A 1955 model in the classic Sunburst finish, it hails from the first year of production for the Stratocaster, which remains one of the most popular and widely collected on the market.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has some fantastic items of music memorabilia for sale.
