Supro Dual Tone Guitar Value Guide

Supro Dual Tone 1961 White | Reverb
Supro Dual Tone Guitar
Estimated Value
$1,100 – $1,200
Period
1957-1961
Origin
United States
Materials
Wood, Plastic, Metal, Rosewood
Category
Supro guitar

The Supro Dual Tone is a quintessential piece of American rock history, manufactured by Valco in Chicago between 1957 and 1961. It earned legendary status as the tool used by Link Wray to create the gritty sounds of 'Rumble' and was later championed by David Bowie during his Reality Tour.

What Is Supro Dual Tone Guitar Worth?

The typical price range for Supro Dual Tone Guitar is $1,100 - $1,200 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Originality of the oversized pickups and internal electronics, as these are crucial for the model's specific tone.
  • The condition of the white finish, which is prone to yellowing or checking over time.
  • Historical provenance or evidence of being a 1961 model, similar to the version famously modified and played by David Bowie.
  • Presence of original Valco hardware, including the bridge and tailpiece, which can be difficult to source as replacements.

How to Identify Supro Dual Tone Guitar?

  • Look for the signature oversized single-coil pickups which are often mistaken for humbuckers due to their large footprint.
  • Verify the distinct Valco-manufactured hardware and the classic white finish characteristic of the 1957-1961 era.
  • Check for the rosewood fingerboard and the specific 'butterfly' or 'art deco' style headstock logo common to Supro models.
  • Inspect the body for the original solid wood construction and the unique bolt-on neck configuration used by Valco.

History of Supro Dual Tone Guitar

The Dual Tone was manufactured by Valco in Chicago and became one of Supro's most iconic designs. It gained legendary status through its association with Link Wray, who used the model to record the influential instrumental 'Rumble.' In later years, David Bowie famously played a modified 1961 version during his Reality Tour, cementing the model's place in rock history.

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