pristine examples will always attract a premium.
So how do you know exactly what you are buying and what it should cost? Well, the only way to know what you are buying is to study the instrument in question. Is it genuine? Is it in original condition? Is it complete and free of damage/repairs? This isn't always easy to do, and it really does help if you know the guitar in question. For example; Gibson guitars with mahogany necks, are prone to breaks below the headstock. Has there been a repair? Hofner guitars are prone to needing neck resets. Is the action un-playably high? Is that Fender Stratocaster body original, or a relic'd repro?
The best way to learn about a vintage guitar is to study books and online resources. Decide what model you want to buy and learn all you can about it.
Time to buy
Vintage guitar dealer's prices are way above the typical prices paid for vintage gear sold privately. Though buying from a store does give you some guarantee as to the guitars provenance - assuming the store is knowledgeable and trustworthy. Better to know what you are looking for and find the same item at auction, in a yard sale, classified listings etc.
Don't just stash it away
So you've got your vintage guitar. Most collectors are musicians too. But if you are considering investing in vintage guitars, purely from a financial point of view... well, you're missing out... guitars are made to be played. You might make yourself some money, but you've missed out on the best part of having a very special instrument.
One of the best websites on the topic is Vintage Guitars which has massive amounts of information, on many older guitars, and a Vintage Guitar forum, with many helpful members
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