Danelectro Shorthorn Bass 3412 1961 - Copper

Up for sale is a exceptionally clean and 100% authentic 1961 Danelectro Model 3412 Single-Pickup Shorthorn Bass in its original, vibrant Copper/Bronze lacquer finish. Manufactured in Neptune, New Jersey, this 65-year-old short-scale bass is a textbook example of vintage American craftsmanship.  

This instrument is fully original with zero modern modifications or splice repairs. The internal control cavity reveals an untouched wiring harness, complete with period-correct Sprague and Pyramid capacitors, pristine factory solder joints, and CTS potentiometers stamped 137 61XX (1961). The interior frame block also retains its clear red factory batch stamp (48 61).  

Features & Details:

 Model: Danelectro 3412 Shorthorn Bass  

 Year: 1961 (Verified by CTS pot dates & factory batch stamp)  

 Finish: Original Copper/Bronze lacquer  

 Pickup: Original single Danelectro "Lipstick Tube" neck pickup with strong, clear output  

 Controls: Original concentric/stacked volume & tone controls and side-mounted jack  

 Hardware: Original wooden saddle bridge, "Coke Bottle" headstock with vertical open-gear strip tuners, cream pointer knobs, and seal-shaped pickguard  

 Body Construction: Hollow masonite frame wrapped in original textured white vinyl side tape  

 Neck Joint: Classic 3-bolt neck mount with no metal plate  

 Case: Includes the rare, original vintage brown hardshell case with plush dark red interior  

Condition:

In excellent vintage condition. The body lacquer shows honest, subtle wear and beautiful light patina appropriate for its age, but free of major flaking or structural issues. The original vinyl side binding is fully intact and tight around the body perimeter. The neck is straight, the frets have plenty of life left, and all electronics function quietly and smoothly.  

Whether you’re a collector seeking an untouched piece of Danelectro history or a recording musician looking for that classic, thumpy 1960s "tic-tac" studio tone, this complete 1961 set with its original case is ready to go.  

Shipping & Handling:

Will be carefully packed, padded, and shipped fully insured inside its original case. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or requests for additional photos!