So, this is a prototype for what Semie referred to as the American model but what has become known in Mosrite circles as the VIII (V-III, V3, etc). Unlike the couple hundred produced (or shall we say completed at the factory) which sport an NC serial number, this prototype is one of only 34 or so Mosrites (of assorted models) with an AF or "after fire" serial number. It is signed and dated by Semie Moseley on the back of the headstock. The finish is the signature California Grape and the neck is extremely flamey. Some of the prototypical features beyond the AF serial are the large pearl dot inlays and side dots (as opposed to the small brass dots found on the production model), the placement of the mini-switches and their on-off-phase wiring scheme (many of the production models left the factory mis-wired or wired simply on-off), and the more intricate German carve which was simplified on the majority of the production models. It also has a rare black-painted Moseley trem plate. This guitar is all original right down to the hardcase which is essentially a left-handed Fender Jaguar/Jazzmaster case with custom Mosrite-shaped inserts.
Please PM me with serious inquiries.
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