Teisco is
famous for its unusual originals as well as copies of 'famous maker'
instruments. In the early 60s, Sears offered a non-catalog line of varied Teisco-made
guitars, and this bass was part of that elite, odd family.
Most Teiscos sported striped metal pickguards from 1965 on, so we can use this
as a general guide to the appearance of these instruments.
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The 1438 bass was part of the early-mid 60s offerings
of Teisco by way of Sears. I reckon they only appeared on store shelves, because
they were never listed in any major seasonal catalogs from that era. Being as
there are no catalog references, our only other resource is Teisco info from
that period of time, and it is scant, as well.
It appears this bass is based on the NB-4 model that was available from Teisco
under their name.
Westheimer Musical
Instruments of Chicago imported the Teisco
Silvertones, and the first Silvertone branded Teisco appeared in 1964-65.
Introduced:
1965(?)
Retired:
?
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