Fender Lone Star Stratocaster

The MIM Deluxe-era Lone Star (1996–2016) trades at $500–$1000, with a median around $750 — high for a Mexican-made Strat, which tells you the market has found genuine demand here. The HSS layout with a hot bridge humbucker and two Texas Special single-coils gives it a versatility that the Player series lacks. Supply is consistent but not overwhelming.

Pricing has been drifting slightly lower over the past few months, which makes this a reasonable buyer's market right now. An example in the $650–$750 range with clean electronics is fair value. Above $900 it needs to be exceptional. These don't appreciate significantly, but they hold their value better than most MIM guitars.