Martin Serial Numbers

DATING MARTIN GUITARS AND MANDOLINS BY REFERENCE OF SERIAL NUMBERS

Determining the production date of your Martin guitar is relatively easy compared to Gibson or Fender because Martin simply used serial numbers in sequence starting from 1898, with the exception of their electric solidbody guitars. Therefore, the serial number of your Martin guitar can accurately indicate its production date.

Where to find the serial number

By peering into the sound hole of the guitar towards the neck, one can observe that both the model and serial numbers are imprinted on the neck block. The model number is located above the serial number.

To determine the production year of your Martin guitar or mandolin, you can either use Martin serial numbers decoder or refer to the tables PROVIDED BELOW.

DECODER coming soon… see tables

Martin history in short

Martin Guitars is one of the oldest and most respected guitar manufacturers in the world, and has been making instruments since 1833. The company was founded by Christian Frederick Martin, a German immigrant who settled in the United States in the early 19th century.

Martin began his career as an apprentice to a cabinet maker in Germany, where he learned the skills necessary to build instruments. When he arrived in the United States, he started making guitars in his home in New York City.

In 1839, Martin moved his business to Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where it remains to this day. The move was prompted by a need for better materials, as the hardwoods available in New York were not suitable for guitar construction.

Martin quickly established a reputation for building high-quality instruments, and by the mid-19th century, his guitars were in high demand. In 1852, he introduced a new style of guitar that would become the company’s signature instrument: the dreadnought.

The dreadnought was a larger, louder guitar than any that had come before, and it quickly became popular among musicians of all genres. Martin continued to innovate in the years that followed, introducing new models and refining his designs.

In the early 20th century, Martin guitars became a favorite of country and blues musicians, and the company continued to grow. During World War II, Martin ceased guitar production in order to focus on producing goods for the war effort.

After the war, Martin resumed guitar production and continued to innovate. In the 1960s, the company introduced a new line of guitars designed for the emerging folk and rock music scenes.

Today, Martin continues to produce high-quality instruments that are highly sought after by musicians around the world. The company’s guitars are known for their impeccable craftsmanship, beautiful tone, and timeless design.

Martin has also been a leader in sustainable forestry practices, working to ensure that the materials used in their instruments are responsibly sourced. The company’s commitment to quality and sustainability has helped it to maintain its position as one of the most respected guitar makers in the world.