[catullus]

Actually, the beautiful part about the auction is that its an old-fasioned auction... you know the kind that involves a big room, lots of items, a guy who talks real fast, and sometimes free popcorn. An older man who had been playing for years, created quite a collection of guitars and their accesories... including some late 50s vintage Fender tweed amps... like the ones Victoria Amps are recreating and selling for $2000+ (waaaaay out of my price range. lol). Anyways, his estate and everything in it is being auctioned off next week, July 18-21. Thankfully, I happen to know his grandson and his family quite well, so I can grab items before auction.

Oh, the specifics, yes, I didnt need to check the serial to verify that it is indeed a newly purchased American-made 60th anniv. Fender Stratocaster. The "cheaper" 60th anniversary strats are simply 60th anniv. "commemorative" Standard Stratocasters, and I believe they are only available in blizzard pearl.

You are not alone thinking that the "diamond" anniversary should be at 100. Actually, Fender has it correct afterall... imagine, their marketing prowess must be phenomenal. As far as the anniversary, diamonds are related to the 60th wedding anniversary. First caught on with the 60th wedding anniversary of Queen Victoria (English Monarch).

I hadnt thought of the ebay route, though I have all the accounts setup. Im always a little nervous about posting ebay auctions for people's advice, since that would undoubtedly give me some competition. Andy S, you mentioned some other really nice strats out there. Anything below 800, new or used? Im a college student. lol

Thanks as always.