A Martin Guitar will have the model designation and the serial number etched on the neck block. Look in the soundhole toward the neck to see where this is etched.

How do you read a Martin guitar model number?

The number in the left-side column is the year, and the number following the year is the last serial number used in that given year. Serial number 8349 for example, would be the first guitar built in 1899.

How do you tell the age of a Martin guitar?

An exception are the electric solidbody guitars. By means of the serial number of your Martin can therefore quite precise date of production be determined. Look in the sound hole of the guitar in the direction of the neck and you see on the neck block model and serial numbers are stamped.

What do the numbers mean on a Martin guitar?

Style numbers indicate the construction materials and appointments of the guitar, and this system allows for several combinations between body shapes and styles. The first letters or numbers indicate the body shape (0, 00, OM, D, etc.) that are followed by a style number (15, 18, 28, 45, etc.), and separated by a dash.

Are there fake Martin Guitars?

Counterfeit guitars typically make use of cheaper laminate wood. If they differ, it means the wood is a laminate, not solid. With our counterfeit Martin D-45, the back and sides of the guitar are laminated, telling us that it is not authentic.

What is the head of the guitar made of?

Headstocks are always made from the same wood type as the guitar neck, which is most commonly (not limited to) Mahogany, Rosewood, and maple.