For sale is a rare and iconic 1986 Rickenbacker 4003 Limited Edition Shadow Bass in Jetglo, complete with the original hard-shell case. This ultra-limited model was produced exclusively for Guitar Center in 1986, with only 50 ever made, making it one of the rarest modern-era Rickenbacker basses.

The Shadow Bass is a visually striking and sonically powerful variant of the classic 4003, built with premium appointments and finished in an all-black aesthetic—including black hardware, pickguard, and truss rod cover. It’s a collector’s dream and a killer player all in one.

Condition:

This bass is in excellent condition, with minor cosmetic signs of use:

• Light scratches, a few dings, and light finish checking

• No cracks, repairs, or structural issues

• 100% original components

• Neck is straight and stable

• Frets are original and in excellent condition with no buzzing or dead spots

• Original Rickenbacker hard-shell case included (very good condition, fully functional)

Overall Rating: 8.8/10

A video demo is available—please refer to the included video for a live look at the bass's condition!

Model History – What Makes the Shadow Special:

The Rickenbacker Shadow Bass is a rare, short-lived variant of the 4003, built as a limited edition run of just 50 instruments for Guitar Center in 1986. What sets it apart:

• All-black aesthetic – Jetglo gloss finish, black hardware, black pickguard, black knobs, and black dot inlays

• Checkerboard body binding – a highly coveted feature not seen on production models since the early 1970s

• Unique tonal versatility – classic 4003 growl with mono and Rick-O-Sound stereo output jacks

• Built for tone and feel – through-neck construction with walnut stringers and powerful High-Gain pickups

Specs:

• Model: 1986 Rickenbacker 4003 Shadow (Limited Edition)

• Finish: Jetglo (gloss black)

• Serial Number: ZK 2947

• Body: Maple with through-neck design and body wings

• Neck: Maple with walnut stringers

• Fingerboard: Rosewood with black dot inlays

• Binding: Checkerboard

• Pickups: Original Rickenbacker High-Gain single-coils (neck and bridge)

• Electronics: Mono + Rick-O-Sound (stereo) outputs

• Nut Width: 1.60"

• Neck Depth: 0.82" (1st fret), 0.95" (12th fret)

• Weight: 8 lbs 14 oz

• Includes: Original Rickenbacker hard-shell case

Why This Bass Stands Out:

• Extremely limited edition – Only 50 Shadow Basses ever made

• Collector-grade rarity – Rare features like blacked-out hardware and checkerboard binding

• True Rickenbacker tone – High-Gain pickups deliver punchy lows and articulate highs

• Professionally set up – Ready to play with no issues

Why Buy from Guitar Chimp?

With over 17 years of experience, Guitar Chimp is known for offering clean, original, and player-ready instruments. Every guitar and bass is professionally inspected and set up by our in-house luthier. All photos are of the actual instrument—never stock images.

📞 Call or Text: (801) 317-9013
💬 Message anytime — we’re here to help!

This 1986 Rickenbacker 4003 Shadow Bass in Jetglo is an incredibly rare and historic instrument that sounds as good as it looks. Don’t miss your chance to own one of the most collectible Rickenbackers ever made—reach out today to make it yours.

Jerald
🎸 Guitar Chimp