
- Washburn electric guitar identification serial numbers#
- Washburn electric guitar identification serial number#
"George Washburn started making guitars in 1864. As the proud owner of a turn of the century Washburn, I have done quite a bit of research on the company. I wanted to correct some misinformation you have published in your "Washburn" page of the web site () concerning Washburn Guitars. we assume that he has done quite a bit of homework on the subject and have published his letter here for your evaluation. the following letter was sent into us from a Washburn owner. The above info was given to Dr.Duck from the Washburn Guitar Company. the year will be in the "Model Name" of the guitar.
Washburn electric guitar identification serial number#
on some models (but not all) - the first two digits of the serial number is the year the guitar was made. then the same thing happened again in the 1950's !!. Washburn guitars had a fire sometime in the 1920's that destroyed everything, including all records and paperwork that they had prior to the day of the fire. the company has changed hands many times since then. George Washburn started making guitars in 1864.

However, the guitar plays well.Ducks Deluxe : Washburn Guitar Dates : Dr. In the past, it appears to have been strung with heavier strings and consequently there is dip in the top around the sound hole and a tilt to the bridge. The guitar is strung with nylon/classical low tension strings (the guitar was designed for gut) with the action set at about 8/64".

There are several short cracks in the sides that have been repaired. There are several repaired top cracks, all cleated.

Overall, the guitar has an attractive appearance. The bridge pins, end pin and tuners appear original. The fingerboard is Brazilian, bound in white celluloid and sports three engraved position markers. The neck is cedar and shaped into a soft 'V'. The back is inlaid with a colorful strip. The sound hole is inlaid with herringbone and colored rings. The top and back are bound in white celluloid and dark/light wood. The back and sides are choice, straight-grained Brazilian rosewood. The neck measures 1 13/16" at the nut, and string spacing 2 3/16" across at the saddle.

The tone, though rich and mellow, possesses much volume and is quite powerful enough for all home purposes" Today, one would accurately call it a 'parlor guitar'. It is the popular style is a great favorite as a lady's instrument. This guitar is somewhat larger than the usual Ladies' size, but of beautiful proportions and a very elegant model. The numeral 1 in the style number represents the size, standard size. The serial number places the guitar at around 1897. Both the style number and serial number are stamped on the headstock. The Washburn line presented a dizzying array of models this example is a Style 123. The quality of workmanship and materials appears second to none. Regardless of how many were made annually, a quick look at one of their instruments shows a well made guitar, on par with a Martin.
Washburn electric guitar identification serial numbers#
The claim was 100,000 instruments made annually! Pleijsier, in his book on Washburn prewar instruments, states that a close examination of the serial numbers of the era could support the makers claim! In fact, the company claimed to be the largest manufacturer and importer of musical instruments in the world. Washburn guitars, manufactured by Lyon & Healy in Chicago, were marketed aggressively in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.
