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This is an exceptionally clean vintage mid-1970s Höfner 500/1 Violin “Beatle” Bass in a rare factory left-handed configuration. Made in Germany, the 500/1 is of course one of the most instantly recognizable bass designs ever produced, forever associated with Paul McCartney and the Beatles.

This example has been remarkably well cared for and is being conservatively listed in Very Good Plus condition. The original sunburst finish remains exceptionally vibrant and clean, with beautiful figuring across the back. There are only minor signs of handling and use consistent with a vintage instrument of this age. Please see all photos for an accurate representation of its excellent overall condition.

The bass retains its vintage Höfner hardware and electronics, including the dual pickups and classic pearloid control console with Volume and Rhythm controls along with Solo, Bass and Treble switches. The electronics utilize the vintage-style brown circuit board and square-bodied potentiometers characteristic of Höfner construction from this period.

A four-digit number is stamped into the top edge of the headstock. This should not be confused with Höfner’s later six-digit factory serial-number system. Various distributors used their own identification numbers on Höfner instruments during this era, and we have therefore not used this number to assign a specific production year. Based on the instrument’s construction, hardware and electronics, we believe this example dates to the mid-1970s.

The neck is comfortable and substantial while retaining the famously narrow Höfner nut width. It plays wonderfully with a straight neck, low action and has the lightweight, woody and distinctive character that has made the German-made 500/1 a classic for more than six decades. It’s currently set up with a set of 40-95 flatwound strings. To facilitate the low action the bridge thumb wheels were brought down as low as it can go. The action measures 3/32nd’s on the bass side and 5/64th’s on the treble at the 12th fret. You’d be hard pressed to find a better playing example, especially one this clean.

This bass comes with what we believe to be its original fitted hardshell case, which remains in very nice condition and features a blue plush interior.

Specifications:

• Model: Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass
• Orientation: Left-Handed
• Approximate Era: Mid-1970s
• Country of Manufacture: Germany
• Nut Width: 1.57”
• Neck Thickness: .875” at the 1st fret / .965” at the 12th fret
• Finish: Sunburst
• Condition: Very Good Plus
• Case: Vintage fitted hardshell case, believed original
• Weight: 4lbs 12.0oz

The bass will be professionally packed, require a signature upon delivery and shipped fully insured.

—Northside Buy & Sell