What Do Guitar Serial Numbers Represent?

by gary miller
(texas,united states)

Like a vin on a vehicle,numbers and letters represent color,model,etc. How is it with my guitar?

ANSWER

Hi, Gary--

Most of the time the serial number on a guitar gives only information about the date and location of manufacture.

Sometimes there will be a letter after the serial number--for example "N". This indicates natural finish.

Generally there is no way to tell the model of a guitar from the serial number. Serial numbers are usually stamped on the neck of the guitar when the neck is finished. The actual date of the FINISHED guitar will be weeks or months later.

Lynne