Squier Vista Series Venus, made in Japan 1997. It's not a big stretch to declare the Vista Series as the coolest Squier guitars ever made; this Venus is certainly befitting of the cult-status that surrounds these guitars. The Venus was co-designed by Courtney Love of Hole, the shape is based loosely on a custom guitar she frequently used called the 'Mercury'. It's certainly visually striking; the shape is really eye-catching. The tuxedo B&W look is sleek, and the matching headstock really adds a touch of class. Aside from looking amazing, this has all the mojo to back it up: it's brilliantly playable and sounds amazing. The neck is moderately chunky, similar in profile to a '57 Reissue Strat, and it's brilliantly made; these came out of the same Tokai Gakki factory as all the Fender Japan stuff of th same era. The tone is tasty too; the neck and middle positions are Strat-esque, but with a bit of the offset-style plonk and thump, and the bridge humbucker really opens up nicely the tone for rhythm playing. These were basically only made in 1997, so they're certainly an oddity, and they're only getting more collectable as the legend around the Vista Series spreads wider. Basically, this is equal parts whack and awesome. 

Model: Squier Vista Series Venus
Made: 1997, Japan (serial A021464)
Finish: gloss black w/ matching headstock
Body: solid basswood
Neck: maple with rosewood board, dot inlays, 25.5" scale
Mods: none
Neck & bridge pickup: original Fender Japan HB (bridge) and ST-single (neck)
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: Mild finish wear. There's one noticeable ding on the bottom edge, aside from that it's basically just some very minor dimples here and there on the body. Overall condition: excellent (9/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electrics tested and working properly. Very little fret wear, around 9/10 for life left. Really nice!