LeftyBassist.com

I've got my eye on a Hofner Deluxe and I'm wondering if anyone could help me confirm the manufacture date and if all the hardware is original; unfortunately the bass is missing the serial number... With the exception of the decal logo, tuners and control knobs, it looks very much like a late 60's model. Although, I'm fairly sure this is a late 60's reissue that was manufactured in the late 80's or beyond because says it was made in "Germany" versus "Western Germany." Most of the gold plating has worn off the pups/tail piece and there are a few dents and finish cracks on the neck, but it appears to be in fairly good shape. What do y'all think this bass is worth? Any input would be most appreciated! Thanks

I am no Hofner expert but it seem legit. Now keep in mind that even real vintage Hofners don't go for astronomic prices. They really don't see the speculative craze of vintage Fenders or Gibsons.
The owner of Guitar Showcase San Jose, who is one of the largest vintage guitar and bass collector in the US, had a lefty one on display, exactly the same as McCartney from... 1964! The guy was not even trying to sell it as he keeps most of his collection for investment purposes. I asked him how much he would sell it for and his answer was "I'll consider an offer for 4k". Which really means that for a collector that's pretty much the most money he thought he could get from it (and he really did not give a damn about sellling it).
IMO I think a mid-80 Deluxe should go for 20% or 30% under the price of a new one.

Thanks for the info. The seller is firmly asking $1400 for this one, so I guess that is resonable if it's legitimately from the late 80's.

Yeah, that's the right price for it - Good luck with that!

This is actually a Hofner 5000/1 (the 'Hofner Deluxe' is actually an archtop guitar). Looks pretty correct for the 80's with the 'toaster' pickups (seen by many Hofner fans as the best pickup they made). The 5000/1 came with many variations, include active electronics, and various pickguards (mostly tortoiseshell). Control panel and knobs look correct. Nice shape.

The typical 'McCartney' bass is a 500/1, and his was made in 1963 (to mainly '62 specs). The standard '64 model has several major differences from Paul's.

1400 is probably about right.

Cool, thanks for the additional info.