Trying to work out when your Eastman guitar was made? Eastman has used several serial-number systems over the years, and the format changed more than once. This guide turns the official rules into plain English.
Important: SB models are different
Do not use the rules below for Eastman SB models. Eastman specifically says the standard serial-number sequences are not accurate for SB guitars. For an SB model, contact Eastman directly for help dating the instrument.
2020 to current
For current Eastman serial numbers, the leading letter identifies the product category and the first two digits identify the year.
So if the number begins with a product-category letter followed by 24, the instrument dates from 2024. A number beginning with a letter followed by 26 dates from 2026.
2016 to 2019
For this period, the first and third digits give the year. The second digit identifies a two-month production window.
| Second digit | Production period |
|---|---|
| 1 | January / February |
| 2 | March / April |
| 3 | May / June |
| 4 | July / August |
| 5 | September / October |
| 6 | November / December |
Eastman’s own example is 15712345. The first and third digits are 1 and 7, giving 2017. The middle digit is 5, meaning September or October.
2014 to 2016
For this system, the first and fourth digits identify the year, while the second and third digits identify the month.
In other words, the year is split across the outside digits of the first four characters, with the two middle digits used for the month.
What if your serial number does not match?
Eastman has used multiple serial-number variations over the years, so not every instrument fits these three patterns. If yours does not match, the safest route is to contact Eastman with the full serial number and model rather than forcing it into the wrong system.
Where to find the serial number
The location varies by instrument family. Check the label or identifying marks inside acoustic and hollow instruments, and inspect the rear of the headstock or other manufacturer markings on solidbody models. If you are unsure whether the number you have found is actually the serial number, compare it with the model information and paperwork supplied with the instrument.
Can a serial number prove an Eastman is genuine?
Not by itself. A serial number can help with dating, but it should not be treated as a complete authenticity check. If you are buying used, compare the model specifications, construction, hardware and identifying details as well, and ask an authorised Eastman dealer or Eastman directly if anything looks inconsistent.
Looking at a used instrument? Our Eastman model guides can help you compare the claimed model against current and documented specifications.
Source: Eastman Guitars official FAQ, serial-number guidance. Eastman advises owners to contact them directly where a serial number does not fit the published systems.