Morris | Guitar Serial Numbers ^new^
For example:
Modern dreadnoughts introduced later in the company's timeline (1990s and 2000s). Checklist for Verifying a Vintage Morris Guitar
: Most commonly, the serial number is printed on the label visible through the soundhole.
If you are buying or selling a Morris guitar, use this checklist to ensure everything aligns logically:
A common "reviewers' secret" is that the model number (like W-30 or W-40 ) usually indicated the original price in Japanese Yen (30,000 or 40,000 yen). Higher numbers typically mean better woods and more intricate bindings, like abalone. Where to Find Them Early Rose Morris 1996 - Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum morris guitar serial numbers
You can contact Morris directly through their official website at . While the company may not be able to decode every vintage serial number, they can often provide information about modern models and general guidance.
| Series | Period | Characteristics | |---|---|---| | | Late 1960s – late 1970s | Oldest acoustic line; dreadnought and jumbo shapes; inspiration from American designs | | MD Series | 1970s – 1980s | Often indicates mid-range instruments; the MD-500 is a known example | | TF Series | Late 1970s – mid 1980s | Higher-grade handmade instruments; TF logo on headstock; includes W-50, W-100, TF-40, TF-801 | | F Series | 1970s – 1980s | Folk and OM-style instruments; the F-12 and F-20 are known models | | S Series | 2001 – present | Modern fingerstyle-focused line; “Made for Fingerpickers” marketing | | Tornado Series | 1978 – 1980s | Thin-body acoustic-electric; Ovation-inspired design |
It is very common for players to confuse the model number with the serial number on vintage Morris guitars.
Labels shifted to a light beige, tan, or stark white background. For example: Modern dreadnoughts introduced later in the
Before looking at the numbers, look at the paper label inside the soundhole. The text and layout will instantly narrow down the decade. The 1970s Labels (The Blue & Black Era)
| Model | Serial prefix | Probable year | |-------|----------------|----------------| | S-106 (Brazillian) | 6xxxxx (1976) | Rare, high value | | W-40 | M 84xxxx | 1984 | | F-35 | C 15xxxx | 2015 (China) |
Some Morris guitars (entry-level) have – these are identified only by:
Produced primarily from the late 1960s through the 1980s. These are traditional Western/Dreadnought body styles, heavily inspired by Martin guitars. Higher numbers typically mean better woods and more
Variation: Some late 70s models use a single digit for the year. 805123 could mean 1978, May, production number 123. Format 2: The Letter Prefix (Terada Factory / Outsourced)
During the first decade of production, serialization was highly inconsistent.
The first two digits typically represent the year of manufacture.
However, through decades of collector data and observation, patterns have emerged that allow for approximate dating.
Morris is a Japanese brand known for quality acoustic guitars produced mainly from the 1960s through the 1990s (and continuing under various ownerships). Serial numbers are one of several clues used to estimate a Morris guitar’s age, origin, and sometimes model family. Below is a concise guide to reading and using Morris serial numbers plus other tips for identification and dating.