Hi
There is an ad on craigslist for an AS strat. The serial doesn't look right but I am not a strat expert. Here is a pic of the headstock. Do they put serials on the back? I thought it was 5 or 6 numbers?
thanks
This link gives you the format and dating info for Fender serial numbers . . .
http://www.fender.com/support/usa_instruments.php
You can also email the serial to Fender and they can give you the manufacturing history - date it was made, specs, etc.
That one looks like it could be part of a limited run.
Playing guitar and never playing for others is like studying medicine and never working in a clinic.
I'm no Fender expert (but own a couple). It looks like a (real) Fender Highway One Stratocaster given the 70's style headstock and the asking price. The sticker appears to be stuck over some of the serial number.
As moonrider wrote - call or email Fender with the whole serial number to verify. Good Luck.
I have a hwy 1 strat and it came with a gigbag that looks just like the one in the pic (from what is visible). I believe the serical number is on the back of the headstock too but I am at work and can't check right now. I paid $750 for my strat brand new about 6 months ago. Prices have since gone up.