Selling Your Old Guitar Without Getting Ripped Off

· 2 min read
Selling Your Old Guitar Without Getting Ripped Off

Step one: Don’t trip over the case. It feels like old guitars weigh more than new ones, doesn’t it? Perhaps it’s all the memories stuffed in there. Or maybe it’s just the silica gel packets rattling around. Sell Vintage Guitar In any case, lift carefully with both hands—your back will appreciate it.



Time to shift to the topic of value. You might recall picking up that guitar for a song years back. Try not to let old memories blur the real numbers. Do your homework: check sold listings on Reverb, eBay, and vintage guitar forums. Skip the random outliers and look for real trends. Keep a few comparisons handy in case someone pushes you.

Honesty always wins buyers over. If your guitar had a strange past, share it. They’ll spot changes like repairs or swapped parts regardless. It’s better to tell the truth than deal with angry surprises later.

Pictures matter—think documentation, not glamour shots. Shoot in daylight. Capture all the imperfections, big and small. Show off any “case candy” you’ve got. Avoid having your hand in the frame unless you like accidental fame.

Now for the million-dollar question—where to list it? For quick turnaround, head to a shop. They’ll pay less, but you avoid packaging stress. Got patience? List it online. Reverb works well, though fees will bite. Enthusiasts with cash hang out in Facebook groups and forums.

Let’s talk haggling. Some buyers will shoot ridiculously low—ignore the sting. Stay polite and steady. Try a joke like, “I’d let it go, but my cat would hate me.”

Packing guitars properly can save heartbreak. Adjust string tension, pad the body, and double-box with care. Mark it FRAGILE with conviction. And never skip insurance.

Every guitar has a story—pass it on. Stories of clubs, tours, or run-ins add value. It’s not just an instrument—it’s history.

Scams are out there—stay cautious. Only use trusted ways to get paid. Cash works best face-to-face. For online, use PayPal Goods & Services.

Regret is part of the deal sometimes. Save the buyer’s info—you may cross paths again. Maybe you’ll spot it on stage someday, living a new story.