PRS Guitar Serial Number Lookup/Decoder
Founded in 1985 by luthier Paul Reed Smith in Maryland, PRS Guitars is a premier American manufacturer known for blending high-end craftsmanship, innovative design, and artistic flair to produce electric and acoustic guitars, amplifiers, and accessories. Positioned as a top-tier manufacturer often cited alongside Fender and Gibson, PRS is renowned for its premium quality, iconic bird inlays, and versatile, modern instruments used by artists like Carlos Santana and Mark Tremonti.
PRS Serial Number Lookup/Decoder FAQs
Where can I find the PRS serial number?
Most Paul Reed Smith guitars list the serial number on the back of the headstock. Some acoustics place it inside the soundhole on a paper label, and older instruments may use a neck plate or stamped marking. If you cannot find it, check the headstock back and the neck joint first.
What can this PRS serial number lookup/decoder tell me?
It typically identifies the production year, factory or plant code, and country of origin. Some serial formats also hint at model lines or production sequence, but that varies by era.
Why won't my PRS serial number decode?
Serial formats change over time, and limited runs or custom shop instruments can deviate from standard patterns. Try removing spaces or hyphens, and if it still fails, reach out so we can review it and improve the decoder.
Decoder Note
Note: If you try a serial number and the decoder is not able to decode it, please contact us and let us know so we can check the number and fix the decoder. Thank you!
How to decode a PRS serial number
PRS guitar serial numbers generally use the first one or two digits to indicate the production year, located on the back of the headstock. Modern US Core models (post‑1994) typically use the last two digits of the year (e.g., “09” = 2009). Earlier models used a single digit (e.g., “8” = 1988) or sequential numbers (e.g., 0001–0400 for 1985).
Decoding by Series & Age
- US Core Models (Post‑1994): The first two digits indicate the year (e.g., 05XXXXX is 2005, 10XXXXX is 2010).
- US Core Models (Pre‑1994): These often used a single digit for the year, or strict sequential numbering, such as 1985 (0001–0400), 1986 (0401–1700), or 1990 (7601–10100).
- PRS SE (Student Edition): These utilize a letter prefix indicating the year, starting with “A” for 2000, “B” for 2001, through “N” for 2013, followed by a sequence of numbers.
- Acoustic Models: Serial numbers start with “A” followed by the two‑digit year (e.g., A09XXXX = 2009).
Key Identification Details
- “10” Top: A small “10” written in the top right corner of the headstock indicates a “10 top” wood grade.
- MODCAT Code: For detailed specifications (pickup type, color, neck shape), check the MODCAT code, often found on the original case, or sometimes on a sticker in the pickup cavity.
- Year Code Table (US/Core): 0 = 1990 or 2000, 1 = 1991 or 2001, 5 = 1985, 1995, or 2005, 08 = 2008, 15 = 2015, 20 = 2020, 24 = 2024.
For definitive verification, especially on older instruments, PRS Guitars' support website provides the most accurate, up‑to‑date, and comprehensive database.
