Maton Serial Number Search -

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 maton serial number search

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

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: Searching for a Maton serial number is the

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 Title: The Archaeology of the Australian Tone: A

Title: The Archaeology of the Australian Tone: A Critical Analysis of Maton Serial Number Systems and Authentication

Abstract This paper explores the methodologies and challenges associated with serial number searches for Maton guitars, Australia’s premier guitar manufacturer. Unlike American manufacturers such as Gibson or Fender, whose serial number archives are extensively documented and publicly decoded, Maton’s serial numbering system has undergone significant variations throughout the company’s 75-year history. This research delineates the chronological eras of Maton serialization, analyzes the efficacy of current identification tools, and highlights the critical role serial numbers play in the authentication, valuation, and historical preservation of Australian musical instruments.

Why Search a Maton Serial Number?

A serial number search can tell you:

Era 1: The Early Years (1946 – early 1960s)

During the immediate post-war period, Maton was still finding its footing. Serial numbers were often handwritten or stamped inside the soundhole on the neck block, but consistency was poor.

Unlocking Your Guitar’s Past: The Complete Guide to Maton Serial Number Search

For decades, Maton has been a cornerstone of Australian guitar manufacturing, crafting iconic instruments played by legends like Tommy Emmanuel, George Harrison, and Josh Homme. Whether you own a vintage 1960s Fyrbyrd, a modern EBG808, or are considering a used purchase, the serial number is your key to unlocking its production history. But unlike Fender or Gibson, Maton’s serial number system has evolved over time. Here’s how to perform an accurate Maton serial number search.

Method 2: The Unofficial Fan Databases (For Vintage Eras)

Since the official records are imperfect for pre-1985 guitars, the Maton community has built its own resources.