The short version
- Typical range: £40 – £180
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Music & Instruments
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used classical guitar is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for classical guitars, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £180 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £153 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £117 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £81 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £45 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a classical guitar
- Solid cedar or spruce tops
- Recognised luthiers and better factory models
- Straight necks with comfortable action
- Original hard case
What lowers it
- Laminate tops, which sell for far less
- Lifting bridges, a serious structural issue
- Cracks in the top or sides
- Warped necks with high action
How to work out what yours is worth
- Look into the soundhole at the edge to see if the top is solid
- Check the bridge sits flat with no gap
- Measure the string height at the twelfth fret
Once you have those three answers you can place your own classical guitar on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell a solid top from laminate?
Look at the soundhole edge. A solid top shows continuous grain through the thickness; laminate shows distinct layers.
Is a lifting bridge repairable?
Yes, by a luthier, but it is a real cost. Buyers treat it as a significant deduction, so disclose it.
Do classical guitars improve with age?
Solid-top instruments do mature tonally. Laminate ones do not, which is another reason the distinction matters.
More value guides: music & instruments guides · all value guides · browse live music & instruments listings.