Hofner Just Filed For Bankruptcy

How could an instrument be more famous than to constantly be on stage with The Beatles for so many years? Well, it could be stolen and then found 50 years later. That would do it. I love answering rhetorical questions while reminding everyone of the iconic “Violin Bass” that Paul McCarney always seem to have in his hands.

That was the Hofner 500/1 bass guitar, designed by Walter Hofner in 1955. Sir Paul bought one in 1961 for $45.

The company was founded by Karl Höfner in 1887. Hofner was bought, sold and traded a few times over the years. World War II was an earthquake for most German companies.

Hofner made a large variety of instruments over the years. It sold a lot of Verithin semi-hollow electrics, but the association with Paul McCartney will always stick in everyone’s mind. He still plays one today.

Sadly, last week, December, 11, 2025, Hofner filed for Bankruptcy.

For collectors, it will be a new dividing line. Is that a pre-2025 Hofner?

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