Pretty much true. 👍🤘

Ah yes, it is.

Stratocaster road worn series

Your vote will be noted.

Why is the road worn one $5,400?

It could be the great sound, the finish on the guitar, supply and demand (depending on what year), or the fact that new guitars went up in price and used guitars followed.

I'll take the one on the right!

The one that got scratched in shipping? I guess if it doesn't effect the sound of the guitar.

G&L clearance instruments come to mind.
Not into this 'relic' fad. Kinda like buying clothes that are already worn out.

I believe it all depends on the sound you're looking for. Because older guitars sometimes have a unique sound.

Not talking about certain vintage instruments, I am taking about this factory 'relic' finish.
Yes, I have instruments that I bought used and have some wear. Some of them do sound unique, and they are no longer manufactured, but the wear isn't what gives them their sound.

I know.

The only point I was trying to make is if I spend 2k+ at the Fender Custom Shop, the finish better be flawless, because I can get a second from G&L that will have a nearly impossible to spot blemish for around $400 that plays and sounds awesome!
I will be amazed if these Fender road worn guitars hold their value, but, the cool thing about Fender instruments is they have sufficient volume to establish a fair market value quite easily.

That's true a scuff in the finish doesn't affect the sound. And Fender does hold their value.