1994 40th anniversary Fender Stratocaster

gogostrat · May 11th, 2008, 05:28 PM

I have a 1994 40th Anniversary strat,

I know there are 2 versions of it, the 1994 40th anniv. of '54 and the normal 1994 40th (confused?)

But i was wondering how much the normal one cost...

I am really confused about this T.T

Strat-Talk · May 11th, 2008, 07:16 PM

Well, there was the 1994, DIAMOND DEALER 40TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION CUSTOM SHOP STRATOCASTER (1954 REISSUE STRAT) ONLY 150 were produced

And then there were the other model that they made thousands of called the Anniversary Edition, with headstock badge and engraved neck plate "1994, 40 years and still rocking".

The Diamond Dealer model is worth 8 times more than the standar "Anniversary Edition."

gogostrat · May 11th, 2008, 07:19 PM

wow then there must be like 3:

1. the diamond one your talking about
2. there's one that only 1954 were made
3. and the one i own i guess...

Orlando Mike · May 11th, 2008, 09:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strat-Talk

Well, there was the 1994, DIAMOND DEALER 40TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION CUSTOM SHOP STRATOCASTER (1954 REISSUE STRAT) ONLY 150 were produced

And then there were the other model that they made thousands of called the Anniversary Edition, with headstock badge and engraved neck plate "1994, 40 years and still rocking".

The Diamond Dealer model is worth 8 times more than the standar "Anniversary Edition."

had the red white and blue emblem on the front of the headstock too

s-strats-D-rvb · May 11th, 2008, 09:40 PM

I have a 40th #1916 of 1954. It's a 54 RI and it's great. Looks like it was made by the CS shop but not sure.

Anyone have more info on these?

Scott

s-strats-D-rvb · May 13th, 2008, 02:16 PM

Any info out there, anyone know about thses guitars??

Must be somebody.............

Strat-Talk · May 13th, 2008, 04:27 PM

There's not a lot to say about the 40th Ann Strat. Fender took a lot of heat from folks that felt it wasn't a real proper homage to the 1954 Strat.

They corrected this in 2004 for the 50th anniversary model. That one was a special CS model and they went to great lengths to make that one accurate to a 1954 Strat.

Here are some of the details of the 40th:

# Replica of a 1954 fender stratocaster
# 2 color sunburst with lacquer finish
# Maple neck with origional 'U' shape
# Ash body
# 25-1/2" scale
# bone nut
# 21 vintage frets
# vintage nickle hardware
# 1 ply white pickguard
# 3-way pickup switch
# Commemorative neck plate: "Fender 40th Anniversary Stratocaster 1994"
# Two cases one a lacquered Fender tweed case and the other a brown Fender "poodle" case

They sold for right around $1,954 if I remember correctly. They sell now for $1,200 to $1,500. You see them listed for $3000 but those folks are just dreaming.

These don't have Custom Shop logos on them, but they "might" be CS Team Built models. But, I haven't been able to confirm that. Most Team Built CS guitars have the CS logo on the back of the head stock. I owned a 1993 Team Built Telecaster that was wonderful, but it definately had the CS logo and came with a CS certificate signed by John Page.

Team Built guitars were made just like all the other guitars on the line, but assembled and hand picked by groups of senior employees. Some were CS employees others just folks with lots of experience.

There was a separate line of CS Masterbuilt 1994 40th Anniversary RUBY Custom color Strats with gold fittings made by Jay Black. But they didn't make 1954 of these just 40.

I think they had trouble selling all 1954 of them during 1994. Some have 1995 dates on them.

s-strats-D-rvb · May 13th, 2008, 08:57 PM

Thanks Strat-Talk,

I Have one of them, pretty nice guitar just the same. #1916 of 1954. Nice fat neck, Not the fatest though. Nice looking Ash Body and Flamed Maple neck. I wondered if the were a CS guitar, remember the early (1987-1989) Mary Kay's ? No CS marking on those either .......

One strange thing about mine, It's got two pickups with beveled poles and one with no bevel. the non-beveled one and has a much higher OHM reading. It's in the neck podition too. the others look a lot like the CS 54's, but did the make the CS 54's back then ??? They don't have the over done bevel of the newer 57/62's either. What P-ups did thses guitars come with ??

Scott

Paul · May 22nd, 2008, 09:34 AM

there's a limited edition '54 reissue strat ( surprise surprise 1954 made).
This one's not got the badge on the headstock but the edition number stamped on the rear of the headstock ( x of 1954). The neck plate says Fender 40th Anniversary stratocaster 1994.
A superb machine ( mine's 2 tone sunburst with a flame maple neck)

Paul · May 22nd, 2008, 09:40 AM

Pretty certain these were made in the Corona factory - not a CS product.

Can anybody confirm these have a swamp ash body ?

Strat-Talk · May 22nd, 2008, 10:06 AM

Everything I've read on them indicates a Swamp Ash body. I wish it was as clear about the CS or not though. You read conflicting reports on this. But I agree it is most likely a standard factory production item.

s-strats-D-rvb · May 22nd, 2008, 02:44 PM

Here's what I got From Fender. (below) I sent an e-mail a while back and they sent me the specs for the guitar and misc case "candy" and such that came with the guitar when new. The one I have is a great looking guitar with a Flame Maple neck and nice grain Ash body. I like mine, I also have a 96 Fender CS 60 RI. I'd say it on par with that guitar or close to it anyway.

Model Name: 1954 40th Anniversary Fender Stratocaster®

Model Number: 010-1954-803

Series: Limited Edition Anniversary Series

Body: Select Ash Body

Neck: Soft "V" Shaped Bolt On Maple Neck

Fingerboard: Maple

No. of Frets: 21 Vintage Style Frets

Scale Length: 25.5" (648mm)

Width @ Nut: 1.650" (42mm)

Hardware: Chrome

Machine Heads: Vintage Style

Bridge: Vintage style

Pickguard: 1-Ply White

Pickups: 3-'54 Strat Single Coils

Pickup Switching: 3 Position Blade Switch

Controls: Master Volume, Tone (Neck), Tone (Middle)

Colors: (803) 2-Color Sunburst

Strings: Fender Super 250R’s (.010 to .046) Nickel Plated Steel pn# 073-0250-006

Unique Features:

Source: U.S.

Accessories: Replica of Original Shaped Case

Deluxe Molded Case

Vintage Style Strap

Vintage Style Cable

Copies of:

1954 Catalog

The Original Ad

Owners Information Sheet

An Introductory Letter To Dealers From Don Randall

U.S. MSRP: $1,849.99

Specs: Prices and Specifications Subject to Change Without Notice

INTRODUCED: 1994

DISCONTINUED: 1994

DISCONTINUED COLORS:

COMMENTS: Serial Numbers Range From 0001 of 1954 to 1954 of 1954

WRENCH SIZES:

Ryan · May 22nd, 2008, 02:54 PM

I know this is slightly off topic, but a guy a now (Michelle - yes that's a guy's name in these parts!) had one of the Am St. model. His grandmother bought it and had it customized for him with a mirrored pickguard, and gave it to him a week before she passed away.

I remember one day he was playing and the strap let go and it hit the cement floor really hard, and cracked the pickguard pretty bad. He cried for like two hours... not that I blamed him. I was a little misty eyed too at the thought of it happening to me.

Now he keeps it locked up. He has a bunch of other guitars anyways, a couple of 70's Strats, and Tele's and a Les Paul. I think its mostly a keepsake.

Anyways, just thought I'd throw in that little story.

StratDen · May 23rd, 2008, 11:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strat-Talk

They sold for right around $1,954 if I remember correctly. They sell now for $1,200 to $1,500. You see them listed for $3000 but those folks are just dreaming..

LOL! So true! I wonder if they are really trying to actually find a buyer, or just want to showcase their stuff????

StratDen · May 23rd, 2008, 11:25 AM

The ones from 2004 took most of the year to sell. Musicians Friend had some (that must have been returned) on their site through early 2005. There was also a Custom Shop version that sold for about $3k new.

Then there were the Anniversaries in 1996 and 1994 that were mentioned above. Most, but not all, are listed on page 63 of this year's VG Price guide.

Strat-Talk · May 23rd, 2008, 12:41 PM

Hey "s-strats-D-rvb" thanks for that info above, that's pretty definitive about what exactly the guitar specs were -- AND that it is NOT a CS built guitar.

StratDen · May 23rd, 2008, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strat-Talk

Hey "s-strats-D-rvb" thanks for that info above, that's pretty definitive about what exactly the guitar specs were -- AND that it is NOT a CS built guitar.

Yes, Fender's staff is pretty good on e-mailing out full spec sheet data. They have helped me ID an handful mid 90's and later guitars with just a serial number...

s-strats-D-rvb · May 24th, 2008, 06:36 AM

Your welcome everyone, glad to share some info on these guitars. Fender was very helpful in providing the specs for these guitars.

Mine came to me a few months ago, it had it's 5 position switch in and it also had an odd pick-up in the neck position. As listed in the specs it should have 3-54's. (they didn't make the CS 54's in 1994 did they?? interesting) So I put the middle in the neck posistion and put a 57/62 in the middle. I'd like to find an original 40th-54 P-up fpr this guitar as I think they sound pretty good. I know that might be tough. Or maybe a set of 56's or something on e-bay.....

Strat-Talk · May 24th, 2008, 08:07 AM

The CS '54s sound great. I had a set in my '79 for a long time. Sorry, I sold them years ago. I went back to the stock p'ups before I sold the guitar. They are really worth the cost if you ask me.

s-strats-D-rvb · May 24th, 2008, 06:35 PM

I agree about the CS 54's ....I have a set in my 96 CS 60 RI Start (came with TX-Specials) and the CS 54's are great in that guitar. It might be what eventuallly goes into this guitar as well. I'd like to find a single 40th 54 p-up (I know, needle in a hay stack) to complete the set in this guitar, but........

guitardude24680 · November 13th, 2008, 06:01 PM

So I just bought a used 40th anniversary strat with a black finish, rosewood fretboard. The neckplate reads:

1994
Fender
Stratocaster
40 Years
...and still rockin'

The headstock pin says 40th Anniversary of the Stratocaster (the red white and blue one)

Which model is this? I know it's a '94 American Standard, but is there anything else i should know?

Oh, and the previous owner installed David Gilmour EMG DG20 pups which make this baby SING.

Bloodtoes · November 13th, 2008, 06:54 PM

Guitardude, sounds like your guitar is a normal 40th anniversary strat. Also sounds like a fun guitar to play with the gilmour pickups in it. :D

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strat-Talk

And then there were the other model that they made thousands of called the Anniversary Edition, with headstock badge and engraved neck plate "1994, 40 years and still rocking".

guitardude24680 · November 14th, 2008, 03:31 PM

thanks, bloodtoes, i appreciate the help.

guitardude24680 · November 27th, 2008, 09:06 AM

when were the american standards started? and what's the difference between a standard and a plus? is a plus made in america? (I'm starting to wonder if my 94 american is a plus, not a standard).... thanks for the help.

Edit: Never mind, I figured out what a Plus is from Wikipedia. Also, i should have thought about the USA thing. It SAYS IT on the neck. duh on my part. LOL

Although I'm still not sure if mine is a standard or a plus... Anybody know?

RockinRocky · January 25th, 2009, 01:05 PM

Well, I don't know about any of the other 40th Anniv. Strats, I just know that my CS Diamond Dealer Edition, #51 of 150, plays like a true vintage Strat, and SOUNDS like one too!!!

johnreardon · January 25th, 2009, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RockinRocky

Well, I don't know about any of the other 40th Anniv. Strats, I just know that my CS Diamond Dealer Edition, #51 of 150, plays like a true vintage Strat, and SOUNDS like one too!!!

Have you got any pics of this one?

guitardude24680 · January 25th, 2009, 04:46 PM

Well, I emailed Fender and they answered my question. It's a standard. All the American strats (standard and deluxe) had the neck plate ("40 Years and Still Rockin' ") and the headstock pin too, I believe. Fender Consumer Relations are very helpful, if anyone's got questions. Just btw.

fairdeal sam · February 26th, 2009, 06:13 AM

Hi there I have a dimond dealer version but A long time ago i had the ring stolen from me. I was wondering how much you think it would be worth without the ring? Or if youknow anywhere I can get one from (long shot)

darringross · March 13th, 2009, 02:59 PM

I have a semi-related question. I just purchased a MIJ 1994-1995 54 reissue. I got it for 300 bucks case and all. Does anyone know what thats worth at all....Serial Number S039310 (Thats Sxxxxxx) I can't seem to find its value anywhere on google. I dont believe it to be rare but I find it odd that I cant find another for sale anywhere! (It should be in my avitar if I just set it up correctly) The 54 reissue is on the left (pay no attention to the Squire)

drbebob1 · March 24th, 2009, 06:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strat-Talk

Well, there was the 1994, DIAMOND DEALER 40TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION CUSTOM SHOP STRATOCASTER (1954 REISSUE STRAT) ONLY 150 were produced

And then there were the other model that they made thousands of called the Anniversary Edition, with headstock badge and engraved neck plate "1994, 40 years and still rocking".

The Diamond Dealer model is worth 8 times more than the standar "Anniversary Edition."

As I understand it there were two versions of the 40th anniversary Strat.
I have a 1994 Strat with the 40th emblem on the headstock and the 1994 neck plate with the "40 years and still rockin" inscription but it came with Lace sensors, TBX tone control, Fender/Rose deluxe locking tremolo with Schaller locking tuners and the locking saddles and LSR roller nut, and "Trem Setter" system and neck tilt adjustment.
Where does this guitar fit in the 40th anniversary spectrum? BTW, it was purchased new at a large reputable Fender dealer with the plastic pickguard protector in place, etc.

TFi2397856 · November 6th, 2009, 02:23 AM

I just bought one of the 1954 that were made for $940 shipped in excellent condition in the poodle case but no 2nd case. That seemed like a good deal for a USA 54 reissue.

Thomas

RockinRocky · December 2nd, 2009, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by johnreardon

Have you got any pics of this one?

Sorry it's taken me so long to respond to this, I've been in and out of the hospital, (bad ticker), but give me a few hours, and when I get home I'll take some pics, and post them.

RockinRocky · December 2nd, 2009, 08:36 PM

Well I tried taking some shot's, they didn't come out so great, so I'll try to take some better one's tomorrow, maybe I can get the lighting better during the day!!
So, until then.......

TFi2397856 · February 16th, 2010, 08:26 PM

I just bought a 2nd 94 reissue 54. That's how much I like them.

Thomas

Stratplar · February 17th, 2010, 04:53 PM

"When were the american standards started?"

1986

fenderkev · February 17th, 2010, 05:40 PM

Here's a web page GGJaguar's Guitarium and Ampeteria 19...54 Ltd Edition on the '54 40th Anniversary Strat.

sneakypete · February 17th, 2010, 09:15 PM

wasn`t here when this thread got started originally but just to add something...fender Japan also had two versions of the 40th...the Foto Flame model and the genuine flame maple neck version...which I had and sold, just couldn`t get along with the hard V neck, but a top notch guitar.

Jmg11986 · February 23rd, 2010, 11:55 PM

Hey guys,

I'm brand new to the forums and think they're awesome.....Anyhow, I bought a midnight blue 40th anniversary strat today with a white pearl pickguard and what seem to be noiseless pickups. They're not the gold lace but look normal with no hum. According to the salesman, the guitar was all original but I'm not sure what I actually have. I'm very new to identifying strats and was unable to come up with an answer here. Are the pickups and pickguard original? Thank you very much!

DANJEL · March 8th, 2010, 04:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul

there's a limited edition '54 reissue strat ( surprise surprise 1954 made).
This one's not got the badge on the headstock but the edition number stamped on the rear of the headstock ( x of 1954). The neck plate says Fender 40th Anniversary stratocaster 1994.
A superb machine ( mine's 2 tone sunburst with a flame maple neck)

I own nr. 0559 of these 1954. I was wondering what pickups this pup has? Anyone know? Will I deplete the value of this guitar if I change the fretwire to the Dunlop Jumbo wire?

s-strats-D-rvb · March 8th, 2010, 10:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DANJEL

I own nr. 0559 of these 1954. I was wondering what pickups this pup has? Anyone know? Will I deplete the value of this guitar if I change the fretwire to the Dunlop Jumbo wire?

Look through the thread, I e-mailed Fender and they were nice enough to send them (specs) to me. I posted them so you can see everything about these guitars.
If you change the pups in yours let me know,I might be interested if you don't want to keep them.