Fender Serial Number Decoder

This lookup tool has been developed by enthusiasts to provide a fast and convenient method for decoding Fender guitar serial numbers. And it’s in NO way affiliated with the Fender brand.

The decoder supports various formats, including MIA, MIJ, CIJ, MIM, MIK and MII, encompassing a total of 15 groups and over 70 different serial number variations. You can check out any Fender guitar model: Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jaguar, Mustang, Precision Bass, Jazz Bass and others.

How To Use?

  1. Enter the serial number without any spaces exactly as it appears.
    • Include any letters and prefixes (for example: MN, MZ, Z, N, JV, etc.). Don’t remove leading zeros.
    • Avoid extra characters. Don’t add words like Made in…, model names, or other markings. Only the serial.
    • Try the number both ways (if it’s unclear).
  2. Click the “Check” button.
  3. The decoder will show what year your guitar was made, the country and the factory where it was produced.
    *For some periods and special runs, Fender’s serial schemes overlap – so a result may be approximate.

OR
OR

Not Found?

If the decoder can’t match your serial number, or the result looks wrong, it doesn’t automatically mean the guitar is fake. Use this quick checklist:

  1. Double-check the Format
    • Remove spaces and symbols (for example: -, /, #)
    • Recheck confusing characters
      • 0 (zero) vs O (letter O)
      • 1 vs I
      • 5 vs S
    • Make sure you included any prefix letters (like MN, MZ, JV, etc.)
  2. Confirm the Brand
    Many guiatrs that look like Fender are actually Squier, and they often use different serial formats.
  3. Check the Neck Heel (Vintage Instruments)
    For some vintage instruments, serial numbers alone may not give an exact date. The most reliable confirmation can come from neck heel date stamps.
  4. Check the Pots
    Another option for dating your guitar is the potentiometer codes. Until 1963, Fender primarily used Stackpole potentiometers, after which they switched to CTS.
  5. Still Unsure? Contact Us.
    If you want, you can contact us with:
    • the full serial number (as written)
    • 2-3 clear photos (front/back of headstock, neck plate, bridge area)
    • model name (if known)
  6. Contact Fender
    You can also refer to the official Fender website or other websites and forums.