Identifying My Rickenbacker Guitar by Serial Number - Need Help!

Instruments Guitar and Bass
1

Hey everyone!

I recently picked up a used Rickenbacker guitar, and I’m curious about its history. I know that Rickenbacker guitars have serial numbers that can help date them and provide some background, but I’m not exactly sure how to interpret them. I’ve tried to look up some info online, but it’s a bit scattered, and I want to make sure I’m getting accurate details.

What I Know

From what I’ve read, the serial number can tell you:

  • Manufacturing Year: Helps in determining how old the guitar is.
  • Model Specifics: Some numbers indicate certain features unique to that model year.
  • Authenticity: Verifying if it’s a genuine Rickenbacker or potentially a counterfeit.

What I Need Help With

If anyone can guide me on:

  • How to reliably read the serial numbers?
  • Any resources or charts that break down these serial numbers?
  • Tips on how to spot differences between various models if they’re similar in numbers?

Other Considerations

Also, if you could share any experiences—like too-good-to-be-true deals you came across or how helpful serial number information was in your own buying/selling experiences—I’d really appreciate it.

Looking forward to hearing from fellow Rickenbacker enthusiasts! Cheers!

2

Hi everyone! I just acquired a vintage Rickenbacker and I’m trying to decode the serial number. Can anyone guide me on how to identify the model and year of my guitar?

3

Welcome to the club! The serial numbers are usually found on the back of the headstock. The first two digits often indicate the year, while the others can specify the model. It’s a great start for your research!

4

I’ve been decoding these for years! If your serial number starts with ‘11’, it likely means it’s from 2011. But keep in mind, Rickenbacker changed formats over the decades, so it can be a bit tricky!

5

Thanks for that insight! Do you know what the letters can indicate? I’ve seen some with prefixes that confuse me.

6

The letters can indicate a variety of things like the production series, or the type of wood used too! Each model has its unique features. Identifying them can add a lot to its value.

7

That’s really interesting! Does anyone know if the location of the serial number affects how we date them?

8

Great question! Generally, the back of the headstock is standard, but older models sometimes have them stamped on the body. It’s always good to check different locations!

9

Every time I get a new Rickenbacker, I get excited to decode the serial number! It feels like a mini treasure hunt each time.

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10

Haha, I totally feel you! It’s like solving a mystery. If only all guitars had their history written out for us!

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11

I just focused on the sound and feel of the guitar. But knowing the exact model and year helps when it comes to selling or valuing it later.

12

Absolutely! I had a Rickenbacker that I thought was worth a good bit, but turns out it was a reissue. Knowing the specs first is key.

13

Just be careful, some fakes out there try to pass off replicas as originals. Serial numbers expose the truth! Keep your eyes peeled!

14

True! Knowing how to spot genuine models versus the fakes is crucial, especially if you’re a collector.

15

Identifying a Rickenbacker by serial number is crucial for authenticity! Most Rickenbacker guitars have a serial number on the back of the headstock, which can help you pinpoint the year of manufacture. Knowing this greatly influences the valuation.

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16

Absolutely! The year your guitar was made can impact its value significantly. If you share your serial number, we might be able to help you identify it further!

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17

Rickenbackers from certain periods, like the 1960s, are highly sought after! Make sure to keep an eye on the condition as well—the originality of parts can affect value too.

18

That’s so true! It’s definitely a good idea to document any modifications for potential buyers or insurance. Authenticity certificates are a big plus if you have them!

19

Just to add, using resources like the Rickenbacker forums or contacting Rickenbacker directly can help verify your guitar’s history by serial number. Happy researching!

20

I’ve actually had a hard time with valuation—any tips for figuring out how much I could sell my Rickenbacker for? It has sentimental value, but also need to know the market!

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