Fender Masterbuilt Kyle McMillin Ltd 70th Anniversary Nocaster Relic - USA 2020

Here is a Fender Custom Shop 70th Anniversary Nocaster Relic Masterbuilt by Kyle McMillin in 2020, a beautifully executed tribute to one of the most important transitional periods in Fender history. The Nocaster name represents the brief 1951 era between the Broadcaster and Telecaster, when Leo Fender’s early solidbody design was already proving its lasting influence. This Masterbuilt example captures that moment with exceptional attention to detail, combining period-correct specification with the refinement and consistency of the modern Custom Shop.

This example features a Honey Blonde finish over an ash body with tasteful relic work that convincingly evokes a well-played early ’50s Fender. Natural checking, edge wear and hardware ageing give the guitar a broken-in character without feeling overdone. The result is an instrument that feels immediately familiar and resonant, with the aesthetic of a genuine vintage piece paired with modern build precision.

The substantial early-style “U” neck profile sits comfortably in the hand, offering a full but controlled feel that encourages confident playing. A lightly tinted nitro finish, 7.25" radius and narrow tall frets complete the vintage-inspired specification, while still maintaining excellent playability by modern standards. In the hands, the guitar feels solid, responsive and alive.

Tonally, the hand-wound Custom Shop Nocaster pickups deliver the classic early Fender voice - bold, dynamic and highly responsive. The bridge pickup provides signature bite and snap with excellent harmonic detail, while the neck position offers warmth and clarity with a smooth, open character. The guitar reacts strongly to touch and dynamics, rewarding nuanced playing with a wide expressive range.

Condition is excellent with only light Custom Shop relic treatment and no additional wear. Everything functions as it should. Comes supplied with its original Fender Custom Shop tweed case and documentation, representing a rare opportunity to own a Masterbuilt Nocaster that authentically captures the spirit of Fender’s earliest designs while offering modern reliability and precision.

Specifications: 

Year: 2020
Country: USA
Model: Fender Custom Shop MB Ltd 70th Anniversary Nocaster Relic
Finish: Honey Blonde Relic
Body: Ash
Neck: Maple
Fingerboard: Maple
Scale: 25.5"
Pickups: Fender Custom Shop hand-wound Nocaster set
Bridge: Vintage-style Tele bridge with brass saddles
Tuners: Vintage-style Fender
Case: Original Fender Custom Shop tweed hard shell case