Modern Morris guitars, particularly the fingerstyle-focused S-Series , use a more formalized numbering system. YYMMXXX
The most common serial format for 1970s and early 80s "W-series" (Martin style) and "F-series" (folk style) guitars is a six-digit number usually found on the internal neck block or the back of the headstock. YYXXXX morris guitar serial numbers
This Martin-style vertical logo was most prominent during the mid-to-late 1970s "lawsuit" peak. 4. Modern S-Series and Hand-Made Models (2001–Present) Morris changed their label designs and logos frequently,
Look for "Luthier Made" or "Hand Made" stamps, which indicate the guitar came from the premium workshop rather than the standard production line. Summary Table: Morris Dating Quick-Reference Likely Serial Format Label/Logo Style 1967–1972 No serial or 4-digit Blue or Round "Moridaira" labels 1973–1979 6-digits (starts with 7) Black/White labels; Martin-style logos 1980–1989 6-digits or Letter prefix "TF" or "Hurricane" branding appears 2001–Now 7+ digits (YYMM...) S-Series for fingerstyle; Hand-Made Premium labels Modern Morris guitars
If your serial number is faded or missing, the physical appointments of the guitar are your best dating tools. Morris changed their label designs and logos frequently, which can narrow down the era:
Around 1983, Morris rebranded many "W" models to the TF series . If your guitar is a TF-80, it was almost certainly made after 1982 .
However, dating these instruments can be notoriously tricky because Morris used several different serialization systems across their factories in Matsumoto and overseas. Here is how to decode Morris guitar serial numbers and identify your guitar's age. 1. The Standard 6-Digit Code (1970s–1980s)