Guys,

Here's a note from down under.
I've got a F55-12 s/n 7941781 - a present from my wife about 80/81 - so I suspect a 79 build.
It's been left out in the rain around camp fires, played in bays off the back decks of many a boat and has still outlived lots of other guitars.
When I thought about replacing it, I found out what I was dealing with and have since bought a case, replaced the machine heads, and treat it with renewed respect.
I play a lot more expensive guitars - regularly - but still love coming back to the old Fender.
Whatever the background, someone made a gem.

Bill