month the color was switched to black until the end of production in January 2007. It has been rumored that the white pickguard was dropped because many seemed to be prone to warping. Because of the much smaller production and relative rarity of the blonde body/white pickguard '51, these have become the most sought-after and highly valued '51s according to many fans. See the Area 51 thread in the Squier section of the FDP (Fender Discussion Page) Forum website, for over 800 entries of information and comments, and the Squier 51 Modders Forum for detailed illustrated information on modifying the guitar. Sales The Squier '51 originally sold for around US$150 through most large music retailers and catalog outlets, although various incentives and sales further reduced the sale price at times. In late 2004, several large music chains were selling the '51 for US $99.99, and even as low as $69.99 in Guitar Center and Sam Ash Music stores, as recently as July 2007. Its low price, unique style and exceptional playability & tone makes it very popular with players who like to modify and upgrade their guitar components. The Squier '51 has developed a strong cult following because of its user-friendly neck and unique sound. Today used examples command a higher price than the guitar did when new; as of 2009 original examples in good condition sell for $150–$200 and up. The 2013 reissued version sells for US $199. Reissues In spring 2011, Fender introduced its own version of the Squier '51, also called a '51, under a new line of guitars called the Fender Pawn Shop Series. The Fender '51 had a MSRP of US$999 and was initially being advertised at popular online retailers for US$799. By mid-June 2011, the MSRP had risen to US$1,099, although online retailer prices remained unchanged. Hardware and electronic component differences aside, the configuration of the Fender variant was almost identical to that of the Squier, with the only notable differences being the use of a full thickness Stratocaster alder body instead of a thinner (by approximately one quarter of an inch) basswood body, and a string-through-body hardtail Stratocaster bridge instead of a top-load bridge. The '51's signature features were all retained, including the Telecaster neck and headstock style, the Stratocaster body shape, and the original Precision Bass pickguard and control plate, humbucking bridge and single coil neck pickups, as well as the rotary