Fender relic guitars originated in the mid-1990s from the Fender Custom Shop, inspired by the demand for vintage-style instruments. Luthier Vince Cunetto helped pioneer the artificial aging process, which debuted at the 1995 NAMM Show. These guitars replicate natural wear with varying aging levels: NOS (New Old Stock), Closet Classic, Journeyman Relic, Relic, and Heavy Relic.

Relic guitars became popular for their "played-in" feel and vintage vibe without the high cost of genuine vintage models. While initially polarizing, they are now a staple of Fender's offerings, available through the Custom Shop and more affordable Road Worn Series, blending nostalgia with modern reliability.
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