Like 1962, very little changed about the Stratocaster for the production year of 1963. Sales were still extremely strong, and the Stratocaster continued to etch out its place as one of the world's most popular and iconic instruments. Some very minor changes seen in 1963 include a subtle shift in the shape of the pickup selector switch and a change in the location of the pickguard screw above the front two pickups. Also, by 1963 the "veneer" style of Rosewood fingerboard had become standard. 

Years of Production: 1954 - present

Unique to this Year: No more date markers on body. Veneer Rosewood fingerboard becomes standard. 

Body Style: Offset solidbody 

Wood Composition: Alder body, Maple neck with slab or veneer Rosewood fingerboard

Design Elements: Bolt-on neck, dot inlays, 3 single-coil pickups, 3-way pickup selector

Finish Specifications: Sunburst was a standard finish for the '63 Stratocaster 

Notable Players:  Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix