The Story Behind the S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed Limited Edition: rare woods, history, and the return of a legend

Back in 2017, PRS released a small batch of guitars that disappeared from stores almost instantly. Known as the Reclaimed Limited series, these instruments stood out thanks to their Brazilian reclaimed woods and completely unique look. Now, in 2025, the Reclaimed Limited concept returns — rebuilt, expanded, and crafted for a new generation of players.

The new PRS S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed Limited Edition blends striking aesthetics, rare woods rescued from South America and the Caribbean, and one of PRS’s most flexible electronic configurations. With hum/single/hum pickups, a 5-way switch, and two mini-toggles, the instrument offers a total of 12 tonal combinations, making it an incredibly versatile companion both on stage and in the studio.

The run is limited to just 700 guitars worldwide.

To explore the story behind this edition, PRS spoke with Michael Reid, the company’s Senior Wood Buyer who has been sourcing woods for Paul Reed Smith for more than four decades.

Q&A with Michael Reid — PRS Senior Wood Buyer

How long have you worked with Paul and PRS?

Michael first met Paul in 1980, shortly after PRS received a commission from Carlos Santana. Paul needed highly figured maple but didn’t have the right stock. A local wood dealer pointed him toward Michael, who at the time was making period furniture using curly maple. This meeting marked the beginning of a long friendship — and in 1987, Reid officially joined PRS.

What inspired this new Reclaimed run?

The inspiration traces back to Reid’s work in Brazil roughly 20 years ago, where he sourced reclaimed woods from abandoned rural houses. Years later, during a casual conversation with PRS’s sales director, the idea of using these woods for guitars resurfaced — eventually leading to the original 2017 release and now to its 2025 revival.

The woods used in the new limited edition

Top — Peroba Rosa

Previously used as exterior cladding on old Brazilian homes, this wood is between 100 and 150 years old. Its tones range from warm yellow-pink to deep purples. PRS works with reclamation companies that dismantle old structures and prepare the wood for new life in craftsmanship and luthiery.

Fretboard — Guaribu Preto

The fingerboards come from hand-hewn beams that once supported traditional Brazilian farmhouses. The wood is dense, stable, and naturally dark — perfect for high-quality fretboards.

Neck — Salvaged Cuban Mahogany from Puerto Rico

After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, thousands of mahogany trees were left on the ground. PRS established connections with local sawmills able to reclaim and mill the fallen trees into neck blanks. Today, this “Maria wood” provides exceptional mahogany with a meaningful origin.

Are the tops visually unique?

Yes — each one tells its own story. Some pieces of Peroba Rosa show natural checking or small nail marks left from their previous life as siding. The preparation process includes removing paint layers and hand-extracting countless small nails.

What has been the most rewarding part of this project?

For Michael, it’s both the relationships formed along the way and the enthusiastic response from musicians worldwide. Owners of Reclaimed Limited guitars understand that these instruments are not gimmicks — they are serious tools for serious players.

What do you appreciate most about your work?

Michael shares one of his favorite quotes from Harry S. Truman:
“It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.”
To him, that sentiment captures the spirit of PRS and why he remains part of the company after more than 40 years.

Review on PRS S2 Special Semi-Hollow Reclaimed Natural Limited Edition