Because there is no automated online search tool, you must rely on database lookups and expert verification. Option A: The Maton Museum
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for performing a maton serial number search , interpreting the results, and understanding what the numbers and letters on your headstock or label really mean. The process is not always straightforward, as Maton's serialization system has changed over its long history from 1946 to the present day, but with the right approach, you can discover the story behind your instrument.
Maton sometimes stamped a "2" or an "S" near the serial number to indicate a factory second—an instrument with a minor cosmetic flaw sold at a discount.
Example: Serial indicates a guitar built in 2013 during the 65th week of the production cycle. (Note: Maton's "production year" sometimes starts in August, which can shift the week count). The "Month/Year" Format (Mid-Era)
for specialized authentication.
Because Maton has not published a single unified decoder for public use, enthusiasts and collectors have reverse-engineered the systems over time. If your serial number doesn't fit neatly into the Museum's ranges, the following unofficial decoders can be valuable tools.
More recent Matons use a more complex alphanumeric code, with various interpretations. One example is 16329 2DG , possibly indicating a production date of February 2013. Another is 2FA on a 2026 model, interpreted as 2 for the 2020s, F (6th letter) for 2026, and A (1st letter) for January. On some models, the last two letters might indicate the year and month, such as ZJ or CD , though this isn't confirmed.
Deciphering a Maton serial number is the most reliable way to authenticate and date these iconic Australian-made instruments. Because the factory has changed its numbering systems several times since its founding in 1946, a "Maton serial number search" requires understanding the specific era of your guitar. Where to Find Your Serial Number
The Maton Museum on the official Maton website is the best starting point. It contains a "Maton History" section and, in some cases, specific "Models" listings that provide clues on production years. Option B: Maton Guitar Forum/Social Media maton serial number search
Post photos of your serial number on a .
. For older electrics, the number might be difficult to see if it was stamped lightly or if the finish has aged. In some cases, a date stamp may also be found under the neck pickup. Decoding Serial Number Formats Modern Era (2014–Present): Alpha-Numeric
These guitars feature early logos and lack standardized modern prefixes. Letter Prefix Era (1962 – 1989)
Simple sequential numbering from 1 to approximately 3000 . Because there is no automated online search tool,
Even with this guide, you may encounter dead ends. Here are the most common issues.
Because Maton numbers run sequentially, you can estimate your guitar's birth year by finding where your serial number falls within these historical production milestones: Serial Number Range Estimated Production Era Common Models Found 1946 – 1960s Early Archtops, Coolibah, HG100 3,001 – 8,000 1970s – 1980s Early EM Series, CW80 Vintage 8,001 – 15,000 1990s – Early 2000s EBG808 Tommy Emmanuel, early Mastersmith 15,001 – 30,000 Mid 2000s – 2012 SRS Series, Performer, Messiah 30,001 – 50,000+ 2013 – Present Modern SRS808, Australian Series, EMBW6 5. Identifying Fake Maton Guitars
Maton is known for using leftover parts. It is entirely possible to have a 1976 neck on a 1978 body. The serial number on the neck block takes precedence for the guitar's official "birth year."
While Maton does not offer a simple, public "enter serial number" tool on their website, the brand has maintained relatively consistent, albeit evolving, dating systems over its rich history since 1946. Maton sometimes stamped a "2" or an "S"
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