Unclear Serial Number

[kswilson89]

Hello

I ventured down to my local guitar shop earlier today. Normally this shop doesn't have anything too 'special' in stock but today there was a pretty USA Starfire IV sitting in the window. Without hesitation I plugged it in and my word, what a guitar... It's been on my mind since. One thing that I did find curious though was that the serial number on the back of the headstock was there but was barely stamped into the finish it seemed, to the point where I couldn't read it. The "made in USA" imprint was pretty much none existent as well. Does anyone have any idea why this would be? I wish I'd have taken a picture! It was a Westerly RI model if that helps at all... Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks
Karl

 

[davismanLV]

Did it match the serial number on the label?

 

[GAD]

Could be a refin. Could be just the way it is. Really need pics to tell, though.

 

[kswilson89]

Did it match the serial number on the label?

I couldn't make the serial number out on the back of the headstock, maybe 1/3 of it was decipherable.

 

[kswilson89]

Could be a refin. Could be just the way it is. Really need pics to tell, though.

I think I'll go back tomorrow and get a snap or two!

 

[jp]

If the guitars still has the original label, it's usually visible through one of the f-holes. See if it matches the serial number on the headstock.

 

[fronobulax]

We have seen many examples where the stamping is pretty faint and the instrument left the factory that way. Best bet is to look at the label. Sometimes photo enhancement tricks can tease out more digits so some headstock photos might be interesting.

 

[kswilson89]

Thanks for the replies so far, I'll report back tomorrow with a pic!

 

[davismanLV]

I couldn't make the serial number out on the back of the headstock, maybe 1/3 of it was decipherable.

So the label inside the F-hole will help you decipher it. Or not....