Godin has used three main serial number systems throughout its history: the early 5-to-6 digit system, the highly common 8-digit system, and the modern 12-digit system introduced in the mid-2000s. 1. The Modern 12-Digit System (Post-2005/2006)
Since 1993, Godin has primarily used an 8-digit system that follows a specific "fiscal year" format starting August 1st. Example: 05023217 Production Year 05 = 2005 (Fiscal year starting Aug 2004) 3 & 4 Production Week 02 = 2nd week of the fiscal year 5 Day of the Week 3 = Wednesday (1=Mon, 2=Tue, etc.) 6, 7, 8 Production Rank 217 = 217th guitar built that week
This system provides specific production details based on a fiscal year that starts on August 1st First 2 Digits:
Vintage or early-run Godin models (like the original Artisan series) can fetch higher prices among collectors.
They typically respond within a few days with exact build date, original specs, and sometimes factory notes. godin guitar serial number lookup
To perform a Godin guitar serial number lookup, you'll need to decode the prefix, serial number, and suffix. Here's a general guide to help you get started:
This comprehensive guide will help you decode any Godin serial number, trace your instrument’s history, and spot counterfeit models. The Core Godin Serial Number Systems
Consult reputable secondary sources
Godin guitars have a unique serial number system that provides valuable information about the instrument. The serial number is usually printed on a label or engraved on the guitar's body, often in one of the following locations: Godin has used three main serial number systems
Performing a successful requires more than just typing numbers into a generic database. It requires understanding the factory codes, the location of the numbers, and the nuances of the Godin family of brands (Seagull, Simon & Patrick, Norman, Art & Lutherie, and LaPatrie).
You cannot perform a lookup if you cannot find the number. Unlike a Martin (on the neck block) or a Fender (on the headstock), Godin is inconsistent.
Production week of that fiscal year (01 to 52).
The sequential production number for that specific calendar year. Where to Find the Serial Number on Your Godin Example: 05023217 Production Year 05 = 2005 (Fiscal
Follow the standard 8-digit and 12-digit rules. The serial number is almost always found on the paper label inside the soundhole. Summary Checklist for Godin Dating Serial Length Date Range Formula Breakdown 4 to 5 Digits 1980s – Early 1990s
Indicates quality. A 0 means it is a standard model, while a 9 indicates it is a factory second (usually with cosmetic flaws). Digits 8-12: The production series or sequential number. Older Serial Number Systems
To accommodate growing production across multiple facilities (including Godin's sub-brands like Seagull, Simon & Patrick, and Art & Lutherie), Godin transitioned to a highly precise 12-digit serial number format. FFF YY WW D NNNN Digits 1–3 (FFF): Factory or model line code. Digits 4–5 (YY): The production year. Digits 6–7 (WW): The production week of the year.
