Q: Are there any differences between original issue jag-stangs and the ones that were “re-issued” in 2003/2004?
A: There are no real differences between the original issue jag-stangs and the jag-stang “reissue” of 2003/2004. The only difference of note is that you will sometimes find a “Designed by Kurt Cobain” sticker on original issue jag-stangs and sometimes a Fender 50th Anniversary sticker on the 1996 jag-stangs on the back of the headstock. (see pic below)
2003/2004 re-issue has an alder body as opposed to the basswood body the originals came with.
I have an original 1996 issue Jag-Stang.. Mine has the 50th anniversary sticker.. but not the Designed by Kurt Cobain sticker.
I’ve had three jag-stangs in the past 22 years. They’ve all had both stickers (I’m pretty sure they were all 1995’s) and the sticker says 1946-1995, which is kinda odd considering that’s only 49 years.
The Jag-Stang was “officially” announced at Winter NAMM 1996 – January 18, 1996. It’s possible some were available to buy before that date.. but more likely those were just manufactured in 1995. So guitars for release in 1996 are generally considered 50th anniversary. Cheers!
I have a 1995 Sonic Blue Jagstang that has both the 50th Anniversary and the designed by Kurt Cobain sticker.