Guild Starfire III 1963 Cherry

TLDR: 100% ORIGINAL W/OHSC IN MINT CONDITION. One owner.

Ladies and Gentleman, up for sale is an exceptionally clean 1963 Guild Starfire III, one of the finest examples you’ll come across. This guitar has been carefully preserved for over six decades and remains in outstanding condition, showing only minimal signs of wear.

This piece comes from a single original owner in New Hampshire and includes its original case, along with the original strap and sheet music used by the owner

Built in Hoboken, New Jersey during Guild’s golden era, this Starfire III never left the East Coast. It retains a vibrant, glossy cherry finish that still presents like it did when it was made. Early Starfire models (1960–1963) were equipped with DeArmond Dynasonic pickups, known for their articulate, jangly tone and dynamic response. This guitar is no exception, delivering everything from warm, smooth jazz tones to biting, overdriven rock sounds, with a bridge pickup that breaks up beautifully when pushed.

The aged laminated mahogany body has developed a resonant, open character over time, producing a sweet, bell-like tone that only decades of natural aging can achieve. Early Guilds from this era are a true sleeper in the vintage market, built to an exceptional standard and delivering a tone that holds its own against the most iconic American guitars of the 1960s.

The Starfire III has long been favored by players such as Jerry Garcia, who famously used one on Grateful Deads debut album

Condition:
Near-mint. There is a small mark on the back of the neck, but otherwise the guitar is remarkably clean with virtually no visible wear. It is lightweight, highly resonant, and plays effortlessly. The frets show plenty of life, and the guitar has been professionally set up for optimal playability.

Thank you for looking and please ask for any questions! Serial #26615