I agree 100%!! I had a 1961 Hagstrom that was in great shape. Just stayed in the closet forever. I was too afraid of ripping the vinyl that was wrapped around it. Eventually I just sold it. I didn't want to play it because I didn't want to damage it. So what good was it to me?? I used the money to buy things I would use (and do every day).

So give me the relic with a side of fries that I can drip the ketchup on.

Mint Condition would be ideal.
The icing would be the original sales receipt, too!

Super clean but with some character marks. The case would be nice in good condition also.

I wouldnt care probably because if I had a 54 strat, I dont think I would sell it unless I really needed the money.

I would really only care that it was playable and could use it. I'd be paranoid about ruining it at first but eventually would settle in, new guitar jitters I guess.

A similiar thing did happen to me except it was some kind of knock off les paul (it has a bolt on neck, which is broken by the way) that I have made a project guitar.

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I tried to think of something clever to put here but- OH! Something shiny!!!

I would want it to be in a condition that I could play it and the price wouldn't go down, or at least to much.

Excellent-plus, but not unplayed. It should have a little owner-vibe.