One of the more unique offerings from Fender's post-CBS lineup is the short-lived but ultra-vibey Coronado. This model came to market in 1966 likely aimed at competing with Gibson/Epiphone and their Casino, but it didn't quite take off enough to make a serious impact. That being said, these Coronados certainly make for a lovely sounding thinline that sound nothing like their solidbody counterparts.

Outfitted with an original set of DeArmond-built single coil pickups and Fender's own bridge and tremolo tailpiece, the Coronado has a bright and sparkly tone with a nice airy response. Those DeArmonds remain true to form even in a Fender-built instrument - that unmistakable voice is there. Light on the midrange, and those high and low frequencies have some nice pop to them with a hint of compression.

You might be looking at this guitar and wondering "Why does it say Coronado I on the peghead but have two pickups?" Great question! While we can't say with absolute certainty that it's a factory job, this Coronado is stamped "SPECIAL" on the back of the headstock. Combined with a March 1966 neck heel ink stamp, this is likely one of the first Coronados Fender produced, destined for the NAMM trade show that summer, or possibly a future celebrity endorsee.