When I had some of the most remarkable Fender Stratocaster anniversary editions in stock, I decided to make a short story about these models and their background. Each carries its own story, its own specs, and for some, a bit of collector mystery.
1979 – The 25th Anniversary Stratocaster
To mark 25 years since the Stratocaster’s debut, Fender issued this special model in 1979. Early units showed off a fragile water‑based Pearl White finish—so delicate that it often failed. Fender responded by shifting to a more stable finish they called “Anniversary Silver” (at times referenced as “Porsche Silver”). This guitar also returned to past glory with a 4‑bolt neck plate and the older truss‑rod bolt location at the neck heel—both nods to earlier Stratocaster designs. About 10,000 units were shipped between 1979–80.
Fender 25th Anniversary Stratocaster 1979
1989 – 35th Anniversary Stratocaster (Custom Shop)
With the Fender Custom Shop now in operation, the 35th Anniversary Strat was one of its early flagship creations. It blended modern tech with vintage flair: Lace Sensor pickups, locking tuners, TBX‑style tone control, figured maple tops (quilted or flame), bird’s‑eye maple or highly figured necks, and features like roller or upgraded nuts. Limited in number (~500), each one has become highly sought, especially with original certificate and Tweed case.
Fender Custom Shop 35th Anniversary Stratocaster 1989
1994 – 40th Anniversary Reissue
For the 40th, Fender released a reissue of the ’54 Stratocaster. Though not fully period‑correct in every detail, it leaned heavily on vintage hardware: 3‑way switch, the string retainer over the tremolo block, one‑piece or maple neck with skunk stripe, ash body in many cases. This model aimed to capture the feel of the original 1954 guitar while using production techniques and components of the ’90s.
Fender 40th Anniversary 1954 Limited Edition Reissue Stratocaster 1994
2004 – 50th Anniversary “Golden” & American Deluxe Models
The 50th Anniversary year was massive. Among the stars was the 50th Anniversary American Deluxe Stratocaster: select alder bodies, Modern “C” maple necks with rolled edges, 22 medium‑jumbo frets, Samarium‑Cobalt noiseless single‑coil pickups, locking tuners, a 2‑point tremolo bridge, S‑1 push/push switch in the volume control to open up alternate wiring options, and commemorative hardware. Many models also had gold‑plated parts and special anniversary neckplates. These guitars blend improved playability and modern electronics with the Stratocaster’s heritage.
Fender 50th Anniversary American Series Stratocaster 2004
Fender 50th Anniversary American Deluxe Stratocaster 2004
2014 – 60th Anniversary Models
In 2014, Fender celebrated 60 years of the Stratocaster with multiple variants—Custom Shop builds, NOS style, heavy relic finishes, etc. Some came close to period spec, some introduced modern enhancements (neck radius, switching options). Collectors often praise these for their attention to detail, finish work, and tone, though not every unit matches the original ’54 spec perfectly.
Fender 60th Anniversary Commemorative American Standard Stratocaster 2014
If you love these kinds of anniversary Strat stories, let me know via mail or Whatsapp. I can keep an eye open for you!
Thanks to Gary Davies for his great book: Anniversary Strat. You can buy the book via this link. https://strat28.wixsite.com/anniversarystrat
