My first electric guitar was an early 60's Fender MusicMaster. It was given to me in 1969 by the other keyboard player in our six piece band. I thought that it was a somewhat extravagant gift so I gave him $20! I passed it along to my son (and bass player) Howlin' Ry.
Someone gave me a Marlboro Les Paul copy once. I honestly don't recall what became of it.
Someone also gave me an old Vox Student Prince. I made a lap steel out of it. I guess Cin got tired of it lyin' around, and threw it out.
The most I've ever paid for a git fiddle was $175 for a nice 60 something Mosrite six string. Those guitars had easy playing necks. The dude that sold it to me threw in a Peavey standard amp with it. Sorry to say, they got ripped off.
I now have an early 60's vintage Fender Mustang. It has an awesome stock Fender whammy bar. Ry tricked it out for me and it plays nice. The finish is original and has a few cracks, but it ads to its charm.
The price? $15, Salvation Army! (eat your heart out, George)
After rockin' the keys for nearly half a century, I can now say that I can actually play two songs on the guitar as well. Beatles' "Rockey Raccoon" and David Crosby's "Triad". (I wouldn't expect anyone to pay me to hear me play them, however)
Howlin'