Rickenbacher Electro (c. 1939-1940) Model 59 Lap Steel Guitar - Silverburst, w/Vintage HSC

A remarkable piece of early electric guitar history, this circa-1939 Rickenbacher Electro Model 59 Lap Steel represents the pioneering era of amplified string instruments. Finished in its distinctive Gray Sunburst, this prewar lap steel showcases the innovative engineering and unmistakable Art Deco styling that helped establish Rickenbacher as one of the earliest and most influential manufacturers of electric guitars.

The Model 59 features a distinctive metal body and neck construction, finished in an attractive silver-to-black sunburst that has developed a beautiful vintage patina over nearly nine decades. Its raised fingerboard, streamlined body contours, and original-style Rickenbacher Electro headstock badge reflect the innovative industrial design of the late 1930s.

At the heart of the instrument is Rickenbacher's legendary horseshoe magnetic pickup, one of the earliest commercially successful electric guitar pickup designs. Known for its powerful output, remarkable sustain, and rich harmonic character, the horseshoe pickup helped define the sound of early amplified Hawaiian and steel guitar music.

This particular example, serial number E2421, features the early two-control configuration, with separate volume and tone knobs positioned on opposite sides of the lower body. Its matching white control knobs, vintage-style tuning machines, and distinctive Gray Sunburst finish are consistent with documented late-1930s examples.

The instrument retains a wonderfully aged appearance, with visible finish wear and patina appropriate for its age. The horseshoe pickup produces a strong signal, and the tone control functions properly. The volume control is currently seized and will require servicing; it has been left undisturbed to preserve the vintage components.

Accompanied by a vintage fitted hardshell case, this Model 59 is an appealing example of prewar American electric instrument craftsmanship and an important artifact from the earliest years of the electric guitar.

Key Features

• Circa-1939 Rickenbacher Electro Model 59 lap steel

• Original-style Gray Sunburst finish with vintage patina

• Early stamped-metal body and neck construction

• Rickenbacher horseshoe magnetic pickup with strong output

• Early opposing volume and tone control configuration

• Matching period-style white control knobs

• Raised fingerboard with integrated position markers

• Vintage three-on-a-plate tuning machines

• Original-style Rickenbacher Electro headstock badge

• Serial number E2421

• Vintage fitted hardshell case included

   Condition Notes:

  Good vintage condition with visible finish wear, patina, and hardware aging consistent with an instrument of this age. The horseshoe pickup produces a strong signal, and the tone control functions properly. The volume control is currently seized and does not rotate. The instrument is being offered with this issue disclosed. Includes a vintage fitted hardshell case showing age-related wear.

  The instrument appears largely original based on visual inspection, although the originality of all electronic components and hardware has not been independently verified.

Specifications