I bought my first MIM (a black J-Bass) in 1992, the first year of production. I considered it to be an excellent value at $260 new, even with some glaring flaws in the finish. I've gotten a few others since then, including a 1998 Deluxe P-Bass Special (used to be called a California P-Bass), which is a cut above the MIM Standards. As Fender raises their prices each year, the MIMs yield less and less bang for the buck. Frankly, I'm more impressed with the SX 70s style J-Basses at around $160 plus shipping.