Maton Serial Number Search __full__ -
Maton guitar serial numbers are essential for verifying the authenticity and production history of an instrument
. While the company has used several numbering formats over its 80-year history, most modern systems follow a specific year/date logic. Modern Serial Number Deciphering (Post-2014) From roughly 2014 onwards, Maton transitioned to an alpha-numeric system Typically follows a pattern like Year Code: The first digit and letter represent the year using a mapping. For example, represents (2 and A=1) or represents (2 and D=4). Month Code:
The third character (letter) identifies the month. For instance, represents (the 7th letter) and represents Historical and Model-Specific Formats
Before the alpha-numeric shift, Maton used various numeric-only systems: Standard Numeric (Pre-2014): Often used an date stamp (e.g., for September 2012) alongside a separate serial number. Electric Guitars:
Older electric models typically have the serial number on the back of the headstock. The first four digits
usually represent the date of manufacture, followed by the instrument's sequence in that series. Production Date Mapping: Some models use a more granular format: First 2 digits: Production year. 3rd & 4th digits:
Production week (Maton's production year traditionally begins August 1st). 5th digit: Production day ( Last 3 digits: Weekly production rank. Where to Find the Serial Number Acoustic Guitars: Look at the internal label visible through the soundhole or stamped on the neck block. Electric Guitars: back of the headstock ; it may be faint on older instruments. Hidden Stamps: Occasionally, date stamps are located under the neck pickup on certain electric models. Verification and Support
Because of variations over the decades, the most reliable way to trace a specific instrument is through the Maton Museum
or by contacting the factory directly with the model and serial number. You can also verify authenticity by checking build quality and hardware characteristics against Maton's official documentation or finding the history of a particular model How to decode Maton guitar serial numbers? - Facebook
Deciphering a Maton guitar's serial number depends heavily on its era, as the Australian luthier has changed its formatting multiple times since its founding in 1946. Unlike some major brands with centralized databases, Maton serial searches often require manual decoding or direct factory verification for high-value authentication Modern Era (2014–Present) Recent Maton guitars typically use an Alpha-Numeric System that identifies the decade, year, and month. The Code Structure : Usually three or more characters (e.g., First Digit : Represents the decade ( Second Character (Year) : Uses letters where , etc. (e.g., Third Character (Month) : Follows the same letter-to-number logic ( would translate to February 2024. The Transition & 2000s Era
For guitars made roughly between the late 1990s and 2013, you might encounter a numerical prefix MM/YY Format
: Some models from this era simply use the first four digits to indicate the date. : A prefix of likely means February 2009. Specific Batch Coding
: In some instances, the first two digits are the production year, the 3rd and 4th are the week, and the 5th is the day of the week (1–5). Vintage Era (Pre-1990s)
Vintage Matons often have shorter, sequential serial numbers that are harder to date without a reference chart. How to decode Maton guitar serial numbers?
Searching for a Maton serial number is the primary method for dating and authenticating these iconic Australian instruments. Because Maton’s numbering systems have evolved since Bill May founded the company in 1946, the location and format of the number depend heavily on the era of the guitar. Finding Your Serial Number
On most Maton acoustic guitars, you can find the model and serial number in the following places:
The Neck Block: Look inside the soundhole toward the neck. The numbers are often etched directly into the flat wooden block where the neck meets the body.
The Internal Label: Later models typically feature a sticker or label inside the soundhole that displays the serial number, model, and sometimes a date stamp.
The Headstock: On electric models, the serial number is frequently located on the rear of the headstock. Decoding the Systems
Maton has used several different systems over the decades to track production:
How to decipher the year numbers on a Maton guitar? - Facebook
To date or authenticate a Maton guitar, the serial number is your primary tool. While Maton has used several different systems over its history, you can find and decode most of them using the steps below. 1. Locate the Serial Number maton serial number search
Depending on your model and age, the number is usually in one of three places:
Internal Label: On acoustic models, look for a paper label visible through the soundhole.
Neck Block: Shine a light into the soundhole toward the neck; many models have the serial and model number etched directly into the wooden block where the neck meets the body.
Back of Headstock: Common for electric models and some modern acoustics. 2. Decode the Serial Number
Maton's numbering system has evolved, but most fall into these major categories:
Post-2015/Modern Systems: Often use a "Date of Manufacture" (DOM) format.
Alpha-Numeric (2014+): Uses a code like 2DB where 2 is the year (2024), D is the day/rank, and B is the month (February). 8-Digit Format: First 2 digits: Production year (e.g., 06 = 2006). 3rd & 4th digits: Production week. 5th digit: Day of the week (1=Monday, 2=Tuesday, etc.). Last 3 digits: Weekly production rank.
Pre-2015 Acoustic Models: Typically featured the month and year clearly on the label (e.g., 09/11 for September 2011). Vintage/Early Models (Pre-1990s):
Standard Pattern: Often the first digit is the year and the next two are the month (e.g., 0387 = March 1987).
Sequential: Some very old models use a simple sequential number (e.g., 005) followed by a decade/year indicator (e.g., 886 for 1986). 3. Verify via Official Resources
If the number doesn't match these patterns, use these official avenues for verification: Maton Museum
To identify the age and history of your Australian-made instrument, a Maton serial number search requires understanding different decoding systems that have changed over the decades. Unlike some major brands with a single database, Maton's numbering varies based on the instrument's age and type. Where to Find the Serial Number
Before decoding, you must locate the number on the instrument:
Acoustic Guitars: Look for a label inside the soundhole or a number etched onto the neck block (visible by looking through the soundhole toward the neck).
Electric Guitars: The serial number is typically found on the back of the headstock.
Vintage Models: Check the internal label or the heel of the neck. How to Decode Maton Serial Numbers 1. Modern Alpha-Numeric System (2014–Present)
From 2014 onwards, Maton transitioned to a letter-based coding system where Z=0, A=1, B=2, and so on. Format Example: 2DB
Decoding: 2 = 2, D = 4, B = 2. This equals 242, representing the year 2024 and the 2nd month (February). 2. Standard Modern System (Approx. 1990s–2014)
Many guitars from this era use a multi-digit code that details the exact day of production. First 2 digits: Production Year (e.g., 06 for 2006). 3rd and 4th digits: Production Week. 5th digit: Day of the Week (1=Monday, 2=Tuesday, etc.). Remaining digits: Weekly production rank.
Note: Maton's production year traditionally begins on August 1st. 3. The Prefix System (Alternate Modern) Some owners report a simpler four-digit prefix system: First 2 digits: Year of manufacture.
Next 2 digits: Month of manufacture (e.g., 0902 would be February 2009). 4. Vintage and Classic Era (1950s–1980s) Maton guitar serial numbers are essential for verifying
Earlier models often used a simpler "Month/Year" format, sometimes separated by a slash or space. Example: Serial 387 or 03 87 indicates March 1987.
Instrument Number: Occasionally, a low three-digit number (like 005) indicates the specific instrument number in that series. Authenticity and Verification
Because Maton records for very early models (especially 1940s–1960s) can be incomplete, owners should look for other identifying markers: How to read Maton guitar model year and serial number?
The Ultimate Guide to Maton Serial Number Search and Decoding
If you are looking to date your Australian-made masterpiece, a Maton serial number search is the most reliable way to unlock its history. Whether you own a vintage Starline or a modern EBG808, the serial number reveals the production year, month, and sometimes even the specific day it left the factory. Where to Find Your Maton Serial Number
Before you can decode the information, you need to locate the number on your instrument. The placement has changed slightly over the decades: Acoustic Guitars:
Soundhole Label: On most models built until 2015, the serial number and model name are printed on a label visible through the soundhole.
Neck Block: On newer or high-end models, the number may be etched directly into the wooden neck block inside the body. Shine a light into the soundhole toward the neck to see it. Electric Guitars:
Headstock: Typically found on the back of the headstock. On older vintage electrics, it might be lightly stamped or inked and can sometimes fade over time. Decoding Your Serial Number
Maton has used several different numbering systems since they began production in 1946. Here is how to read the most common formats: Modern Alphanumeric System (2014 – Present)
In 2014, Maton moved to an alphanumeric code that uses letters to represent numbers ( Example Code: 2DB Decoded: 242 →right arrow
The first two digits (24) are the year (2024) and the last digit (2) is the month (February). Standard 21st Century System
For many guitars produced between 2000 and 2014, the format often follows a year/month/rank or year/week/day structure.
Year and Month: A prefix like 0902 typically translates to February 2009. Production Detail: Some codes break down as: First 2 digits: Production Year. 3rd & 4th digits: Production Week. 5th digit: Production Day (1 = Monday, 2 = Tuesday, etc.). Last 3 digits: The guitar's rank in that week's production. Vintage and Late 20th Century Systems
1990s Electrics: Often used a four-digit prefix representing the date (Month/Year), followed by the series number.
1960s – 1980s: Many acoustic models had a simple Month/Year format (e.g., 03/87 for March 1987) printed on the internal label. Official Verification Tools
If your serial number doesn't fit these common patterns, or you want a verified history of your instrument, you can use these official resources: How to decode Maton guitar serial numbers? - Facebook
Finding and decoding a Maton serial number is straightforward for modern guitars, but older models may require a bit more detective work. Finding the Serial Number
Acoustics: Look inside the soundhole towards the neck. The serial and model numbers are usually etched directly onto the internal neck block. Electrics: Often found on the back of the headstock. Decoding the Date
Maton has changed its numbering system multiple times. Here are the most common patterns:
Alpha-Numeric (2014–Present): Uses a mix of letters and numbers where Z=0, A=1, B=2, etc. For example, "2DB" translates to 242, indicating February 2024. Week-Based (approx. 2005–2014): First 2 digits: Production Year. 3rd & 4th digits: Production Week. 5th digit: Day of the week (1 = Monday, 2 = Tuesday, etc.). The Search Process: Methods and Tools Unlike many
Example: "06053168" was built in the 5th week of 2005, on a Wednesday. Month/Year (Late 80s–Early 2000s): First 1-2 digits: Month of manufacture. Last 2 digits: Year of manufacture. Example: "996" or "0996" would be September 1996.
Vintage/Early Models: Pre-1980s serials are often sequential and lack a built-in date code. You can cross-reference these in the Maton Museum, which lists production ranges for specific models. Helpful Resources
Maton Museum: An official database to search by model number to find production dates and quantities.
Official Maton FAQ: Often provides updated links to dating guides and serial information.
Facebook Community: The Maton Facebook Group is highly active for verifying unusual or "off the record" serial numbers. How to decode Maton guitar serial numbers?
Decoding Your Heritage: The Maton Serial Number Guide Identifying the production date and history of a
guitar is essential for both collectors and players. While Maton has used several systems since its founding in 1946, most modern instruments follow a highly structured format that reveals the exact day it left the factory. Where to Find Your Serial Number
On most Maton acoustics, the serial number and model designation are etched directly into the neck block . To see it, look through the soundhole toward the neck. Modern Models
: Often etched on the internal neck block or printed on a sticker inside the soundhole. Older Models
: May have a sticker with the company's address (Canterbury Rd, Bayswater, or Box Hill), which helps narrow down the era.
: Some models, like the MS2000, may have the serial number stamped under the neck pickup. How to Decode Modern Maton Serial Numbers
For instruments produced in recent decades, the serial number typically consists of seven or eight digits . You can break them down as follows: Example (SN: 1365640) Production Year Production Week = 65th Week Production Day (1=Mon) = Saturday Weekly Production Rank = 40th guitar that week Note: Maton's production year traditionally begins on August 1st Older and Alternative Formats
If your serial number doesn't fit the pattern above, it may follow one of these historical systems: MM/YY System (Pre-2014ish)
: Some stickers use a simple date stamp like "09/12," indicating September 2012. Alpha-Numeric (Post-2014ish) : Uses a code like "2AG," where represent the year (2022) and represents the month (July, as G is the 7th letter). Prefix System
: A four-digit prefix like "0902" often directly indicates the year (2009) and month (February). Verifying Rare and Vintage Models What does 2BG mean on a serial number? - Facebook
The Search Process: Methods and Tools
Unlike many American brands, Maton does not maintain a fully public, searchable web interface where typing a number yields an instant spec sheet. Instead, the search relies on a hybrid of official resources and community intelligence.
1. The Official Maton Enquiry (The Primary Method) The most authoritative source is Maton’s customer service department in Melbourne, Australia. Via their official website, users can submit a serial number enquiry. The company maintains a handwritten and digital ledger dating back to 1946. A successful query typically returns:
- Exact model name (e.g., "Fyrbyrd," "EBG808," "M225")
- Year of manufacture (often to the specific month)
- Original timber specifications (e.g., "Sitka spruce top, Queensland walnut back/sides")
- Factory-original hardware and pickguard type.
Limitation: This process is not instant. Due to manual archive referencing, response times can range from 48 hours to two weeks. Furthermore, records for instruments from the 1950s and early 1960s may be incomplete due to a factory fire or simple archival degradation.
2. The Unofficial Fan Databases & Forums
For immediate, though less authoritative, results, the Oz Guitar Forum and Maton Collectors Facebook groups are invaluable. Enthusiasts have crowdsourced extensive lists of serial number ranges. For example, it is widely known that serial numbers starting with M1000 to M2500 generally correspond to the late 1970s, while A100 to A500 often indicate early 1980s acoustics. Cross-referencing a number with these community-led tables can provide a “best guess” year within minutes.
3. Decoding the "Date Stamp" (A Hidden Trick)
On many post-1990 Matons, a separate ink stamp—distinct from the serial number—exists on the interior heel block. This four-digit code (e.g., 2304) decodes to 23rd week of 2004. While not a direct serial number search, this internal date stamp is a failsafe to validate the information provided by the official serial lookup.
Case Study: What a Serial Number Can Reveal
Example serial: 406789 (found on an EBG808TE)
- First digit ‘4’ suggests 2004 or 2014.
- Check model: EBG808TE introduced in 2003.
- Cross-reference with known list:
406xxxappears in Maton’s 2004 production log. - Result: 2004 EBG808TE, Blackwood back/sides, Sitka top. Original pickguard, no factory cutaway.
3. The Heel Plate (Vintage only)
On very early models (1950s and early 60s), the serial number was sometimes stamped onto the metal heel plate where the neck meets the body, or on the back of the headstock.
Pro Tip: If the sticker is missing or faded, look for an embossed stamp into the wood of the neck block. Maton hand-stamps these; the impression may be faint.