I have Geddy Lee's Big Beautiful Book of Bass, where he showcases the 350 basses in his collection. His favorite basses are the ones who have the finish worn down on the body, and the frets slightly worn, because those types of basses have been used in bars and other gigs, and each one of those basses has a story unique to that instrument.
I only have 2 basses, and my 5 string has a very special story to it. It was originally owned by a good friend of mine. Knew Steve for about 17 years before he passed away of a heart attack at 50. Steve's sister gave all of his basses to the top local bassist in Buffalo, Jim Wynne who was best friends with Steve. Jim is also my bass instructor. So one day Jim asked me if I ever considered playing a 5 string. I said I would definitely consider it, and in next weeks lesson Jim had Steve's 5 string all ready for me to take home. Jim has Steve's Rickenbacker 4001, but to this day Jim's Rickenbacker and my 5 string are still considered to be "Steve's bass".