Disclaimer: While this guide covers the standard Yamaha dating systems, exceptions exist due to factory transitions and special runs. Always verify with multiple sources for high-value instruments.
Many modern and vintage Yamaha serials use a code where letters represent digits for the year and month. Year Digit I J K L M N O P Q/X October (X) Y Z 2. Regional Systems & Eras
1 (Year) = 1971, 1981, or 1991 (Yamaha serials often ). 09 (Month) = September. 18 (Day) = 18th day.
These typically use a 3-letter and 6-number format (e.g., QIM180013 ). QI (Year) = 02, or 2002. M (Month) = June. 18 (Day) = 18th day. Determining When a Guitar or Bass was Manufactured