I don't quite get it.

[marnold***]

I vaguely remember when American-made instruments were in that price range. 30 years ago or so?

I got my made-in-the-USA Peavy Fury p-bass with a hard-shell case for less than $300 (I want to say $280) brand spankin' new in 1987 or 1988. I still want it back. Its resale value wouldn't be as great as a Fender's, but as far as quality goes, it would be every bit its equal, if not better.