What Does a Guitar Serial Number Actually Tell You?

Most guitarists know their instrument has a serial number, but few understand what it encodes — or what it doesn't. Here's everything a serial can and can't reveal.

How to Spot a Fake Guitar: A Complete Buyer's Guide

The market for counterfeit guitars has grown alongside online marketplaces. Here's how to protect yourself — from serial number checks to physical inspection.

The Complete History of Fender Serial Numbers

Fender has used more serial number formats than almost any other manufacturer — a direct reflection of ownership changes, new factories, and expanding global production.

The Complete History of Gibson Serial Numbers

Gibson's serial number history is one of the most complex in the guitar world — spanning eight decades, multiple ownership eras, and more format changes than almost any other brand.

How to Buy a Used Guitar Online Without Getting Burned

Buying a guitar you can't play first is always a leap of faith. With the right process, you can dramatically reduce the risk of fakes, lemons, and misrepresented instruments.

The Best Guitar Eras by Brand: What Years to Look For

Certain years and eras produce instruments of exceptional quality, character, and collectibility. A guide to the golden periods for every major guitar brand.

Guitar Factory Codes Explained

Many guitar serial numbers encode a factory or plant code that reveals where the instrument was built. Here's what those codes mean and why they matter.