1959 Fender Prototype Jazz Bass Sunburst (Refinished)

Up for sale, a rare and historic Fender Jazz Bass prototype from 1959. Yes, 1959! Although the Jazz Bass wasn’t officially introduced until 1960, Leo built a few prototypes. This particular prototype bass was owned and modified by Jim Lacefield, bassist and founding member of the jazz group, Free Flight. Lacefield may have acquired the bass through a connection with Speedy West, Jr., whose father, Speedy West, Sr., was a friend of Leo’s and worked for Fender at one point.

The bass originally had two soapbar pickups which Lacefield replaced with pre-CBS Jazz pickups (stamped 040164). Lacefield also refinished the body leaving the large soapbar pickup routs as they were. The neck is pencil dated “6-59” to which Lacefield added “Restored by Jim Lacefield Apr. 1977”. Even with the modifications made by Lacefield, the bass retains extraordinary value as one of the few known Jazz Bass prototypes in existence. A rare and wonderful piece of early Fender history.

This guitar comes from the estate of a collector who owned literally dozens of vintage Fender basses from the 50s and 60s. This prototype bass was appraised by Gruhn Guitar and we feel confident that the bass is what it purports to be, one of Leo’s earliest efforts to create what ultimately became the Fender Jazz Bass.

If you have interest in purchasing this bass, please call us for further details.

Year: 1959

Make: Fender

Model: Prototype Jazz Bass

Serial: L93950

Finish: Sunburst

Case: White Tolex Hardshell Case

Weight: 8 pounds 12 ounces

Condition: Fair

Modifications: Refinished; replaced pickups and wiring harness; Replaced pickguard; replaced neck plate with 1960s serial number

Comments: A dream bass for any Fender bass collector.