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Guitar Serial Number Lookup

Fender

Fender Serial Number Lookup: Decode Your Fender Guitar's Age & Value

Home

Guitar Serial Number Lookup

Fender

Fender Serial Number Lookup: Decode Your Fender Guitar's Age & Value

Home

Guitar Serial Number Lookup

Fender

Fender Serial Number Lookup: Decode Your Fender Guitar's Age & Value

Introduction:

Fender electric guitars and basses have shaped the sound of popular music since the 1950s. Whether you own a vintage Telecaster, Stratocaster, Precision Bass, or a modern American Professional, your Fender's serial number contains valuable information about its age, origin, and potential value. This comprehensive guide will help you decode Fender serial numbers across all eras and production facilities.

Fender's serialization methods have changed significantly throughout the company's history, with different systems used during the pre-CBS era (1950-1965), CBS ownership period (1965-1985), and modern era (1985-present). Additionally, Fender uses distinct serial number formats for instruments made in different countries. This guide covers all major Fender serialization methods, from the earliest Broadcaster and Esquire models to current production instruments.

Where to Find Fender Serial Numbers

Fender has used several locations for serial numbers throughout its history:

1950-1954 (Earliest Fenders)

On the bridge plate: Stamped into the metal bridge plate where the strings anchor
Early Telecaster, Esquire, Broadcaster, and Precision Bass models

1950-1954 (Earliest Fenders)

On the bridge plate: Stamped into the metal bridge plate where the strings anchor
Early Telecaster, Esquire, Broadcaster, and Precision Bass models

1950-1954 (Earliest Fenders)

On the bridge plate: Stamped into the metal bridge plate where the strings anchor
Early Telecaster, Esquire, Broadcaster, and Precision Bass models

1954-1976 (Pre-CBS through Early CBS Era)

On the neck plate: Stamped on the metal plate where the neck attaches to the body
All Fender models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and basses

1954-1976 (Pre-CBS through Early CBS Era)

On the neck plate: Stamped on the metal plate where the neck attaches to the body
All Fender models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and basses

1954-1976 (Pre-CBS through Early CBS Era)

On the neck plate: Stamped on the metal plate where the neck attaches to the body
All Fender models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, and basses

1976-Present (Later CBS Era and Modern Production)

On the headstock: Printed or stamped on either the front or back of the headstock
All Fender models from all production facilities

1976-Present (Later CBS Era and Modern Production)

On the headstock: Printed or stamped on either the front or back of the headstock
All Fender models from all production facilities

1976-Present (Later CBS Era and Modern Production)

On the headstock: Printed or stamped on either the front or back of the headstock
All Fender models from all production facilities

Fender Serial Number Systems By Era

Bridge Plate Numbers (1950-1954)

The earliest Fender instruments had their serial numbers stamped into the bridge plate (where the strings anchor to the body). These are the most valuable vintage Fenders, representing the company's first successful solid-body electric guitars and basses.

Identification: Numbers stamped directly into the metal bridge plate.

Model-Specific Serial Number Ranges:

Broadcaster/Nocaster/Telecaster (1950-1954):

0001-1300: 1950-1952
1300-3000: 1951-1954
3000-5000s: 1952-1954

Precision Bass (1951-1954):

100-600: 1951-1952
0001-0900: 1952-1953
0900-2000: 1954

Collector's Note: Instruments with bridge plate serial numbers are among the most valuable Fenders, with early Broadcasters and Nocasters sometimes selling for $100,000+. Authentication is critical for these rare instruments.

Choose Bridge Plate Numbers

Bridge Plate Numbers (1950-1954)

Identification: Numbers stamped directly into the metal bridge plate.

Model-Specific Serial Number Ranges:

Broadcaster/Nocaster/Telecaster (1950-1954):

0001-1300: 1950-1952
1300-3000: 1951-1954
3000-5000s: 1952-1954

Precision Bass (1951-1954):

100-600: 1951-1952
0001-0900: 1952-1953
0900-2000: 1954

Choose Bridge Plate Numbers

Bridge Plate Numbers (1950-1954)

Identification: Numbers stamped directly into the metal bridge plate.

Model-Specific Serial Number Ranges:

Broadcaster/Nocaster/Telecaster (1950-1954):

0001-1300: 1950-1952
1300-3000: 1951-1954
3000-5000s: 1952-1954

Precision Bass (1951-1954):

100-600: 1951-1952
0001-0900: 1952-1953
0900-2000: 1954

Choose Bridge Plate Numbers

Neck Plate Numbers (1954-1963)

In late 1953/early 1954, Fender moved the serial number to the neck plate (the metal plate on the back of the guitar where the neck attaches to the body).

Identification: 4-5 digit numbers stamped into the metal neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

0001-8000: 1954
6000-10000: 1955
9000-16000: 1956
16000-25000: 1957
25000-30000: 1958
30000-40000: 1959
40000-58000: 1960
55000-72000: 1961
72000-93000: 1962
93000-99999: 1963

Models Using This System: All Fender electric models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Precision Bass, and Jazz Bass.

Dating Notes: Some overlap exists in these ranges as production and numbering weren't always sequential. When in doubt, physical features often provide the most accurate dating information.

Choose Neck Plate Numbers

Neck Plate Numbers (1954-1963)

In late 1953/early 1954, Fender moved the serial number to the neck plate (the metal plate on the back of the guitar where the neck attaches to the body).

Identification: 4-5 digit numbers stamped into the metal neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

0001-8000: 1954
6000-10000: 1955
9000-16000: 1956
16000-25000: 1957
25000-30000: 1958
30000-40000: 1959
40000-58000: 1960
55000-72000: 1961
72000-93000: 1962
93000-99999: 1963

Models Using This System: All Fender electric models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Precision Bass, and Jazz Bass.

Dating Notes: Some overlap exists in these ranges as production and numbering weren't always sequential. When in doubt, physical features often provide the most accurate dating information.

Choose Neck Plate Numbers

Neck Plate Numbers (1954-1963)

In late 1953/early 1954, Fender moved the serial number to the neck plate (the metal plate on the back of the guitar where the neck attaches to the body).

Identification: 4-5 digit numbers stamped into the metal neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

0001-8000: 1954
6000-10000: 1955
9000-16000: 1956
16000-25000: 1957
25000-30000: 1958
30000-40000: 1959
40000-58000: 1960
55000-72000: 1961
72000-93000: 1962
93000-99999: 1963

Models Using This System: All Fender electric models including Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Precision Bass, and Jazz Bass.

Dating Notes: Some overlap exists in these ranges as production and numbering weren't always sequential. When in doubt, physical features often provide the most accurate dating information.

Choose Neck Plate Numbers

L-Series Neck Plate Numbers (1963-1965)

In late 1963, Fender began using "L" prefix serial numbers on the neck plate, continuing until the CBS purchase in January 1965.

Identification: An "L" followed by 5 digits stamped into the neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

L00001-L20000: 1963
L20000-L55000: 1964
L55000-L99999: 1965

Historical Note: L-series instruments from early 1965 are considered "pre-CBS" despite being manufactured in the year Fender was sold to CBS. These transitional instruments are quite valuable.

Choose L Series Neck Plate Numbers

L-Series Neck Plate Numbers (1963-1965)

In late 1963, Fender began using "L" prefix serial numbers on the neck plate, continuing until the CBS purchase in January 1965.

Identification: An "L" followed by 5 digits stamped into the neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

L00001-L20000: 1963
L20000-L55000: 1964
L55000-L99999: 1965

Historical Note: L-series instruments from early 1965 are considered "pre-CBS" despite being manufactured in the year Fender was sold to CBS. These transitional instruments are quite valuable.

Choose L Series Neck Plate Numbers

L-Series Neck Plate Numbers (1963-1965)

In late 1963, Fender began using "L" prefix serial numbers on the neck plate, continuing until the CBS purchase in January 1965.

Identification: An "L" followed by 5 digits stamped into the neck plate.

Serial Number Ranges:

L00001-L20000: 1963
L20000-L55000: 1964
L55000-L99999: 1965

Historical Note: L-series instruments from early 1965 are considered "pre-CBS" despite being manufactured in the year Fender was sold to CBS. These transitional instruments are quite valuable.

Choose L Series Neck Plate Numbers

F-Style Neck Plate Numbers (1965-1976)

After CBS purchased Fender in January 1965, they continued using neck plate serial numbers but changed the format. These plates featured a large stylized "F" logo underneath the serial number.

Identification: 6-digit serial numbers on a neck plate with an "F" logo underneath.

Serial Number Ranges:

100000-110000: 1965
110000-200000: 1966
180000-210000: 1967
210000-250000: 1968
250000-280000: 1969
280000-300000: 1970
300000-330000: 1971
330000-370000: 1972
370000-520000: 1973
500000-580000: 1974
580000-690000: 1975
690000-750000: 1976

CBS Era Features: During this period, Fender guitars underwent significant changes including larger headstocks, polyurethane finishes, and three-bolt necks with "Micro-Tilt" adjustment (1971-1981).

Choose F Style Neck Plate Numbers

F-Style Neck Plate Numbers (1965-1976)

After CBS purchased Fender in January 1965, they continued using neck plate serial numbers but changed the format. These plates featured a large stylized "F" logo underneath the serial number.

Identification: 6-digit serial numbers on a neck plate with an "F" logo underneath.

Serial Number Ranges:

100000-110000: 1965
110000-200000: 1966
180000-210000: 1967
210000-250000: 1968
250000-280000: 1969
280000-300000: 1970
300000-330000: 1971
330000-370000: 1972
370000-520000: 1973
500000-580000: 1974
580000-690000: 1975
690000-750000: 1976

Choose F Style Neck Plate Numbers

F-Style Neck Plate Numbers (1965-1976)

After CBS purchased Fender in January 1965, they continued using neck plate serial numbers but changed the format. These plates featured a large stylized "F" logo underneath the serial number.

Identification: 6-digit serial numbers on a neck plate with an "F" logo underneath.

Serial Number Ranges:

100000-110000: 1965
110000-200000: 1966
180000-210000: 1967
210000-250000: 1968
250000-280000: 1969
280000-300000: 1970
300000-330000: 1971
330000-370000: 1972
370000-520000: 1973
500000-580000: 1974
580000-690000: 1975
690000-750000: 1976

Choose F Style Neck Plate Numbers

Headstock Serial Numbers (1976-Present)

In 1976, Fender moved serial numbers to the headstock and introduced a new dating system with letter prefixes indicating the decade of manufacture.

Identification: Letters followed by numbers, printed or stamped on the front or back of the headstock.

American-Made Fenders (1976-Present):

S + 6 digits: 1970s

S7 + 5 digits: 1977
S8 + 5 digits: 1978
S9 + 5 digits: 1979

E + 6 digits: 1980s

E0 + 5 digits: 1980
E1 + 5 digits: 1981
(continuing through E9 + 5 digits: 1989)

N + 6 digits: 1990s

N0 + 5 digits: 1990
N1 + 5 digits: 1991
(continuing through N9 + 5 digits: 1999)

Z + 6 digits: 2000s

Z0 + 5 digits: 2000
Z1 + 5 digits: 2001
(continuing through Z9 + 5 digits: 2009)

US + 8 digits: 2010s and beyond

US10 + 6 digits: 2010
US11 + 6 digits: 2011
(continuing with current production)

Choose Headstock Serial Numbers

Headstock Serial Numbers (1976-Present)

In 1976, Fender moved serial numbers to the headstock and introduced a new dating system with letter prefixes indicating the decade of manufacture.

Identification: Letters followed by numbers, printed or stamped on the front or back of the headstock.

American-Made Fenders (1976-Present):

S + 6 digits: 1970s

S7 + 5 digits: 1977
S8 + 5 digits: 1978
S9 + 5 digits: 1979

E + 6 digits: 1980s

E0 + 5 digits: 1980
E1 + 5 digits: 1981
(continuing through E9 + 5 digits: 1989)

N + 6 digits: 1990s

N0 + 5 digits: 1990
N1 + 5 digits: 1991
(continuing through N9 + 5 digits: 1999)

Z + 6 digits: 2000s

Z0 + 5 digits: 2000
Z1 + 5 digits: 2001
(continuing through Z9 + 5 digits: 2009)

US + 8 digits: 2010s and beyond

US10 + 6 digits: 2010
US11 + 6 digits: 2011
(continuing with current production)

Choose Headstock Serial Numbers

Headstock Serial Numbers (1976-Present)

In 1976, Fender moved serial numbers to the headstock and introduced a new dating system with letter prefixes indicating the decade of manufacture.

Identification: Letters followed by numbers, printed or stamped on the front or back of the headstock.

American-Made Fenders (1976-Present):

S + 6 digits: 1970s

S7 + 5 digits: 1977
S8 + 5 digits: 1978
S9 + 5 digits: 1979

E + 6 digits: 1980s

E0 + 5 digits: 1980
E1 + 5 digits: 1981
(continuing through E9 + 5 digits: 1989)

N + 6 digits: 1990s

N0 + 5 digits: 1990
N1 + 5 digits: 1991
(continuing through N9 + 5 digits: 1999)

Z + 6 digits: 2000s

Z0 + 5 digits: 2000
Z1 + 5 digits: 2001
(continuing through Z9 + 5 digits: 2009)

US + 8 digits: 2010s and beyond

US10 + 6 digits: 2010
US11 + 6 digits: 2011
(continuing with current production)

Choose Headstock Serial Numbers

V-Series Numbers (1982-Present)

Vintage reissue models typically have serial numbers beginning with "V" on the neck plate.

Identification: "V" followed by 5 or 6 digits stamped on the neck plate.

Dating Limitations: The "V" serial numbers themselves don't reliably indicate the production year. To precisely date these guitars:

Check the neck heel date stamp (visible only when the neck is removed)
Verify potentiometer codes
Review model-specific features

Choose V Series Numbers

V-Series Numbers (1982-Present)

Vintage reissue models typically have serial numbers beginning with "V" on the neck plate.

Identification: "V" followed by 5 or 6 digits stamped on the neck plate.

Dating Limitations: The "V" serial numbers themselves don't reliably indicate the production year. To precisely date these guitars:

Check the neck heel date stamp (visible only when the neck is removed)
Verify potentiometer codes
Review model-specific features

Choose V Series Numbers

V-Series Numbers (1982-Present)

Vintage reissue models typically have serial numbers beginning with "V" on the neck plate.

Identification: "V" followed by 5 or 6 digits stamped on the neck plate.

Dating Limitations: The "V" serial numbers themselves don't reliably indicate the production year. To precisely date these guitars:

Check the neck heel date stamp (visible only when the neck is removed)
Verify potentiometer codes
Review model-specific features

Choose V Series Numbers

Production Location Serial Numbers

Fender produces guitars in several countries, each with distinct serial number systems.

Japanese Fenders

Fender Japan production began in 1982, with instruments bearing location-specific serial number prefixes.

Serial Number Prefixes and Production Dates:

JV + 5 digits: 1982-1984
SQ + 5 digits: 1983-1984
E + 6 digits: 1984-1987
A, B, C + 6 digits: 1985-1986
F + 6 digits: 1986
G + 6 digits: 1987
H + 6 digits: 1988
I, J + 6 digits: 1989-1990
K + 6 digits: 1990
L + 6 digits: 1991
M + 6 digits: 1992
N + 6 digits: 1993
O + 6 digits: 1994
P + 6 digits: 1995
Q + 6 digits: 1996
R + 6 digits: 1997
S + 6 digits: 1998
T + 6 digits: 1999

Later Japanese Fenders use more complex systems with various prefixes including "JD," "JO," and "CT."

Choose Japanese Fenders

Japanese Fenders

Fender Japan production began in 1982, with instruments bearing location-specific serial number prefixes.

Serial Number Prefixes and Production Dates:

JV + 5 digits: 1982-1984
SQ + 5 digits: 1983-1984
E + 6 digits: 1984-1987
A, B, C + 6 digits: 1985-1986
F + 6 digits: 1986
G + 6 digits: 1987
H + 6 digits: 1988
I, J + 6 digits: 1989-1990
K + 6 digits: 1990
L + 6 digits: 1991
M + 6 digits: 1992
N + 6 digits: 1993
O + 6 digits: 1994
P + 6 digits: 1995
Q + 6 digits: 1996
R + 6 digits: 1997
S + 6 digits: 1998
T + 6 digits: 1999

Later Japanese Fenders use more complex systems with various prefixes including "JD," "JO," and "CT."

Choose Japanese Fenders

Japanese Fenders

Fender Japan production began in 1982, with instruments bearing location-specific serial number prefixes.

Serial Number Prefixes and Production Dates:

JV + 5 digits: 1982-1984
SQ + 5 digits: 1983-1984
E + 6 digits: 1984-1987
A, B, C + 6 digits: 1985-1986
F + 6 digits: 1986
G + 6 digits: 1987
H + 6 digits: 1988
I, J + 6 digits: 1989-1990
K + 6 digits: 1990
L + 6 digits: 1991
M + 6 digits: 1992
N + 6 digits: 1993
O + 6 digits: 1994
P + 6 digits: 1995
Q + 6 digits: 1996
R + 6 digits: 1997
S + 6 digits: 1998
T + 6 digits: 1999

Later Japanese Fenders use more complex systems with various prefixes including "JD," "JO," and "CT."

Choose Japanese Fenders

Mexican Fenders

Fender began Mexican production in 1990, using several serial number formats as production evolved.

1990-2000: MN prefix (M=Mexico, N=Nineties)

MN0 + 5 or 6 digits: 1990-1991
MN1 + 5 or 6 digits: 1991-1992
MN2 + 5 or 6 digits: 1992-1993
(continuing through MN9 + 5 or 6 digits: 1999-2000)

2000-2010: MZ prefix (M=Mexico, Z=Zeros/2000s)

MZ0 + 5 or 6 digits: 2000-2001
MZ1 + 5 or 6 digits: 2001-2002
(continuing through MZ9 + 5 or 6 digits: 2009-2010)

2010-Present: MX followed by 8 digits

MX10 + 6 digits: 2010-2011
MX11 + 6 digits: 2011-2012
(continuing through current production)

Dating Note: Some overlap exists in Mexican Fender dating. For example, MN0 can extend into 1991, MN1 into 1992, etc.

Choose Mexican Fenders

Mexican Fenders

Fender began Mexican production in 1990, using several serial number formats as production evolved.

1990-2000: MN prefix (M=Mexico, N=Nineties)

MN0 + 5 or 6 digits: 1990-1991
MN1 + 5 or 6 digits: 1991-1992
MN2 + 5 or 6 digits: 1992-1993
(continuing through MN9 + 5 or 6 digits: 1999-2000)

2000-2010: MZ prefix (M=Mexico, Z=Zeros/2000s)

MZ0 + 5 or 6 digits: 2000-2001
MZ1 + 5 or 6 digits: 2001-2002
(continuing through MZ9 + 5 or 6 digits: 2009-2010)

2010-Present: MX followed by 8 digits

MX10 + 6 digits: 2010-2011
MX11 + 6 digits: 2011-2012
(continuing through current production)

Dating Note: Some overlap exists in Mexican Fender dating. For example, MN0 can extend into 1991, MN1 into 1992, etc.

Choose Mexican Fenders

Mexican Fenders

Fender began Mexican production in 1990, using several serial number formats as production evolved.

1990-2000: MN prefix (M=Mexico, N=Nineties)

MN0 + 5 or 6 digits: 1990-1991
MN1 + 5 or 6 digits: 1991-1992
MN2 + 5 or 6 digits: 1992-1993
(continuing through MN9 + 5 or 6 digits: 1999-2000)

2000-2010: MZ prefix (M=Mexico, Z=Zeros/2000s)

MZ0 + 5 or 6 digits: 2000-2001
MZ1 + 5 or 6 digits: 2001-2002
(continuing through MZ9 + 5 or 6 digits: 2009-2010)

2010-Present: MX followed by 8 digits

MX10 + 6 digits: 2010-2011
MX11 + 6 digits: 2011-2012
(continuing through current production)

Dating Note: Some overlap exists in Mexican Fender dating. For example, MN0 can extend into 1991, MN1 into 1992, etc.

Choose Mexican Fenders

Other Production Facilities

Korea (1988-2002):

E + 6 digits: 1988-1989
S + 6 digits: 1990-1991
Various Squier-specific prefixes

China (2000-Present):

CY + 5 or 6 digits: 2000s
Various Squier-specific formats

Indonesia (2002-Present):

IC + 5 or 6 digits
SI + 6 digits (Squier Indonesia)

Choose Other Production Facilities

Other Production Facilities

Korea (1988-2002):

E + 6 digits: 1988-1989
S + 6 digits: 1990-1991
Various Squier-specific prefixes

China (2000-Present):

CY + 5 or 6 digits: 2000s
Various Squier-specific formats

Indonesia (2002-Present):

IC + 5 or 6 digits
SI + 6 digits (Squier Indonesia)

Choose Other Production Facilities

Other Production Facilities

Korea (1988-2002):

E + 6 digits: 1988-1989
S + 6 digits: 1990-1991
Various Squier-specific prefixes

China (2000-Present):

CY + 5 or 6 digits: 2000s
Various Squier-specific formats

Indonesia (2002-Present):

IC + 5 or 6 digits
SI + 6 digits (Squier Indonesia)

Choose Other Production Facilities

Fender-Specific Guides

Different Fender models often have unique characteristics that help with dating. For more detailed information specific to your model, visit these dedicated guides:

How to Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

How to Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

How to Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Stratocaster Guitars

How to Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

How to Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

How to Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

Learn How To Date Fender Telecaster Guitars

Beyond Serial Numbers: Other Dating Methods

When Fender serial numbers are unclear or potentially misleading, these alternative methods can provide more accurate dating:

Neck Date Stamps

One of the most reliable dating methods for Fender instruments is the pencil or stamped date on the heel of the neck (the end of the neck that joins the body). This is typically only visible when the neck is removed from the body.

Format: Month-Day-Year format, often abbreviated (e.g., "2-24-65" for February 24, 1965)

Accessing Neck Dates: Requires removing the neck from the body—best done by a qualified technician to avoid damage.

Neck Date Stamps

Format: Month-Day-Year format, often abbreviated (e.g., "2-24-65" for February 24, 1965)

Accessing Neck Dates: Requires removing the neck from the body—best done by a qualified technician to avoid damage.

Neck Date Stamps

Format: Month-Day-Year format, often abbreviated (e.g., "2-24-65" for February 24, 1965)

Accessing Neck Dates: Requires removing the neck from the body—best done by a qualified technician to avoid damage.

Potentiometer Codes

Electric guitar potentiometers (volume and tone controls) often have date codes that provide manufacturing dates:

CTS Pots (common in Fender instruments):

Format: 137xxxx (13=manufacturer, 7=1967, xxxx=week)

Stackpole Pots (found in some 1950s models):

Various date code formats

Accessing Pot Codes: Requires removing the control plate, pickguard, or back cover to view the potentiometers.

Potentiometer Codes

Electric guitar potentiometers (volume and tone controls) often have date codes that provide manufacturing dates:

CTS Pots (common in Fender instruments):

Format: 137xxxx (13=manufacturer, 7=1967, xxxx=week)

Stackpole Pots (found in some 1950s models):

Various date code formats

Accessing Pot Codes: Requires removing the control plate, pickguard, or back cover to view the potentiometers.

Potentiometer Codes

Electric guitar potentiometers (volume and tone controls) often have date codes that provide manufacturing dates:

CTS Pots (common in Fender instruments):

Format: 137xxxx (13=manufacturer, 7=1967, xxxx=week)

Stackpole Pots (found in some 1950s models):

Various date code formats

Accessing Pot Codes: Requires removing the control plate, pickguard, or back cover to view the potentiometers.

Pickup Date Codes

Fender pickups sometimes contain date information:

Bottom of pickup bobbin (visible if pickup cover is removed)
Wire color changes at certain periods
Magnetic pole piece material and staggering patterns

Pickup Date Codes

Fender pickups sometimes contain date information:

Bottom of pickup bobbin (visible if pickup cover is removed)
Wire color changes at certain periods
Magnetic pole piece material and staggering patterns

Pickup Date Codes

Fender pickups sometimes contain date information:

Bottom of pickup bobbin (visible if pickup cover is removed)
Wire color changes at certain periods
Magnetic pole piece material and staggering patterns

Body Date Stamps

On some Fender instruments, especially from the 1960s and 1970s, dates were penciled or stamped in the neck pocket, pickup cavities, or control cavities.

Format: Similar to neck date format (Month-Day-Year)

Accessing Body Stamps: Requires removing the neck or pickguard—best done by a qualified technician.

Body Date Stamps

On some Fender instruments, especially from the 1960s and 1970s, dates were penciled or stamped in the neck pocket, pickup cavities, or control cavities.

Format: Similar to neck date format (Month-Day-Year)

Accessing Body Stamps: Requires removing the neck or pickguard—best done by a qualified technician.

Body Date Stamps

On some Fender instruments, especially from the 1960s and 1970s, dates were penciled or stamped in the neck pocket, pickup cavities, or control cavities.

Format: Similar to neck date format (Month-Day-Year)

Accessing Body Stamps: Requires removing the neck or pickguard—best done by a qualified technician.

Identifying Counterfeits

Unfortunately, counterfeit Fender guitars have become increasingly sophisticated. Watch for these warning signs:

Serial Number Red Flags

Incorrect font or spacing in the number
Serial numbers that don't match the apparent age or features of the instrument
Numbers from valuable vintage years on guitars with modern features

Physical Authentication Points

Headstock shape (different models have distinctive shapes)
Neck pocket fit and finish
Bridge and hardware quality
Electronic components and wiring techniques
Finish quality and color accuracy
Weight and body contours

Expert Authentication Services

For valuable vintage Fender instruments or when you need definitive answers about age and authenticity, consider these professional resources:

Expert Appraisal

Our team of vintage Fender specialists can provide:

Precise dating based on all available evidence
Authentication of originality and components
Complete documentation of features and specifications
Fair market value assessment
Condition grading

Documentation Services

We offer comprehensive documentation including:

Detailed photography
Component analysis
Historical context research
Ownership history investigation
Comparative analysis with known authentic examples

Free Initial Consultation

Upload photos of your guitar
Share the serial number and any other identifying information
Describe your guitar's history and condition
Ask specific questions about dating or value

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Call (440) 219-3607

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Our experts will assess your guitar and provide a fair cash offer based on current market value.

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Accept our offer and receive payment on the spot, by check, or via direct deposit.

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No special documentation is required for most sales. For very valuable vintage instruments, any provenance or ownership history is helpful but not necessary. We handle all the paperwork to make selling easy.

What documentation do I need to sell my guitar?

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While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

Do you purchase other musical instruments?

While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

Do you purchase other musical instruments?

While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

How does your online appraisal process work?

Our online appraisal process is simple: submit clear photos of your instrument (front, back, headstock, serial number, and any damage), along with details about its history and condition. Our experts will evaluate the information and provide a fair market offer within 24-48 hours.

How does your online appraisal process work?

Do I need to clean or repair my guitar before selling it?

No, please don't make any repairs or even clean vintage instruments before contacting us. Original condition—even with dust, grime, or minor issues—is often preferable for accurate valuation. Improper cleaning can actually damage valuable finishes on vintage instruments.

Do I need to clean or repair my guitar before selling it?

Do you offer more for guitars with original cases?

Yes, original cases—especially for vintage instruments—can significantly increase value. 'Case candy' such as original paperwork, warranty cards, tags, and accessories also adds value. Keep everything together when selling for maximum return.

Do you offer more for guitars with original cases?

What payment methods do you offer?

We offer several secure payment options including cash (for in-person transactions), certified check, bank wire transfer, PayPal, or direct deposit. For high-value instruments or collections, we can accommodate special arrangements to ensure your comfort and security.

What payment methods do you offer?

Selling Options

Multiple Ways To Sell

Sell Online

Submit photos and information through our secure form for a quick online valuation and offer.

Get A Free Estimate

Sell By Phone

Speak directly with our experts at (440) 219-3607 for immediate assistance and valuation.

Call (440) 219-3607

In-Person Evaluation

Schedule an appointment for an in-person assessment of valuable or multiple instruments.