Squier
Since 1982
Squier was established by Fender in 1982 to produce affordable versions of classic Fender guitars. The brand originated from the V.C. Squier Company, a string manufacturer founded in 1890 and acquired by Fender in 1965. The initial Japanese-made JV series (1982-1984) became legendary for their quality, closely matching American Fenders. Today, Squier produces guitars in Indonesia and China across multiple series—from the entry-level Bullet to the acclaimed Classic Vibe—offering authentic Fender designs to players of all budgets.
44
Years in Business
10M+
Guitars Sold
$100M+
Annual Revenue
Complete Squier Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Squier guitars.
Squier Price Overview
Squier covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$280
+3% vs last year
eBay Listings
5,500
Active listings
Sold This Month
1,800
+5% vs last month
Price Range
$80-$2,500
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Squier Timeline
V.C. Squier Company Founded
Victor Carroll Squier established the V.C. Squier Company in Battle Creek, Michigan, manufacturing strings for violins, banjos, and guitars.
Fender Acquisition
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation acquired the V.C. Squier Company for its string manufacturing expertise.
Squier Guitar Brand Launched
Fender reactivated the Squier name for affordable Japanese-made guitars. The JV (Japanese Vintage) series launched with '57/'62 Strats and '52 Teles.
SQ Series Introduced
The SQ series followed the JV, featuring 1970s-inspired designs with Japanese-made pickups.
Korean Production Begins
Squier shifted production from Japan to South Korea to reduce costs, leading to mixed quality reception.
Chinese/Indonesian Production
Production expanded to China and Indonesia, beginning a new era of improved quality control and value.
Classic Vibe Series Launch
Introduced the Classic Vibe series with vintage-spec alnico pickups and premium appointments, revolutionizing budget guitars.
Classic Vibe Refresh
Major update to Classic Vibe series with Fender-designed alnico pickups and improved hardware.
Contemporary Series Update
Launched updated Contemporary series with roasted maple necks and modern appointments.
Paranormal Series Expansion
Expanded the Paranormal series with unique hybrid designs and offset models.
Complete Squier Product Lineup
Squier: Authentic Fender design and tone for every player and budget
Classic Vibe Series
Vintage-inspired with premium appointments
Vintage '50s specs at ~$449
Rosewood board, alnico pickups at ~$449
Large headstock, '70s vibe at ~$449
'50s/'60s/'70s variants at ~$449
Offset classic at ~$479
P-Bass and J-Bass at ~$449-$549
Contemporary Series
Modern features for contemporary players
Roasted maple, humbuckers at ~$449
Modern Tele with active options at ~$449
Active electronics, modern design at ~$449
Semi-hollow modern at ~$449
Affinity Series
Entry-level quality for beginners
Entry Strat at ~$249
Entry Tele at ~$249
Entry offset at ~$279
Entry bass at ~$279-$329
Paranormal Series
Unique hybrid designs and offsets
Tele-Jazzmaster hybrid at ~$449
Filtertron-style pickups at ~$449
27" scale baritone at ~$479
Offset revival at ~$449
Bullet/Sonic Series
Most affordable entry point
Entry level at ~$149-$179
Updated entry at ~$199
3/4 size travel guitar at ~$149
Vintage JV/SQ (Collectible)
1982-1984 Japanese-made collectibles
'57/'62 specs, Japan at $1,000-$1,500
'52 specs, Japan at $1,200-$1,800
Rare collectible at $1,500-$2,500+
'70s specs, Japan at $800-$1,200
"Squier: Authentic Fender design and tone for every player and budget"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Classic Vibe Series Buying Guide
Best Value in Budget Guitars
Fender-designed alnico pickups, vintage-tinted necks, and quality hardware—widely considered the best value in the $400-$500 range
Era Selection
'50s: Maple board, vintage radius. '60s: Rosewood/laurel, slightly modern. '70s: Large headstock, 4-bolt. Choose era for aesthetics and feel
Upgrade Platform
Excellent base for modifications—standard Fender-spec body/neck means drop-in replacement parts. Many players upgrade pickups/tuners over time
Affinity vs Bullet/Sonic Guide
Affinity Advantages
Better electronics, sealed tuners, improved nut and bridge. Worth the $50-$100 premium over Bullet for serious beginners
Bullet/Sonic Purpose
Absolute entry level—best for uncertain beginners or beater/travel guitars. Functional but limited upgrade potential
Body Wood Differences
Affinity: Poplar or alder. Bullet: Basswood. Classic Vibe: Alder or poplar. Wood affects resale more than tone at this level
Vintage JV/SQ Series Buying Guide
JV Premium (1982-1984)
Japanese-made with US pickups, nitro-like finishes, and exceptional quality. Large 'Fender' logo examples most valuable. $1,000-$2,500 depending on model
SQ Series (1983-1984)
Japanese-made but with Japanese pickups and '70s specs. Slightly lower value than JV but still excellent guitars at $800-$1,200
Authentication
Verify serial number format (JV + 5 digits or SQ + 5 digits). Check pot dates, logo style, and hardware consistency. Fakes exist due to high values