I'm prioritising gigging my AVII Precision, my most expensive purchase, but it stubbornly refuses to do acquire wear or battle scars...
I used to use my Performer for every gig in the 90s. For some reason I'm reluctant to use it of late. Must get it out there soon.
Edit: I don't deliberately abuse my basses.
My choice for gigs is always led by what playing experience I want and what sound I feel like having.
On the original question, if you have great looking, easy playing and excellent sounding instrument, it seems churlish never to let a band and audience benefit from it.
One could argue you should always use your best bass... but I'd say use the one(s) likely to bring out your best on the night.