Guitars must meet several criteria’s to be worth money. One of the most important aspects is originality. Any modifications, replaced parts or repairs, no matter how practical, will decrease the value of a vintage guitar. Even replacing the original case or re-fretting the guitar will decrease value. For example, a “beat-up” original finish guitar will always be worth much more than a perfectly refinished one. Even if the new finish is done professionally and looks perfect, it will be worth approximately half the price of an original finish guitar. This is because once the original finish is gone there is simply no way to replace it. The materials, the procedures, the patina will all be different on a refinished instrument. Also it can be refinished many times and done perfectly, but it is still “refinished” and will never be “original” again.
