Fernandes FG Serial Number: What You Need to Know

The Fernandes FG serial number refers to a specific model of guitar produced by the Japanese company Fernandes. The 'FG' prefix in the serial number indicates that the guitar was manufactured either in China or Taiwan, although not all examples built in these countries bear the 'Super Grade' script on their headstock.

One of the most notable models bearing the FG serial number is the RSG-75 and RSG-95, which were likely produced by Tokai. The Japanese-made RSG-95 was introduced briefly in 2008 before being discontinued. In 2003, the RSG returned as part of the Classics Series, but the Japanese-made RSG-75 was quickly discontinued.

In the mid-1980s, Dyna Gakki began producing Burnys, a line of SG copies that included the RSG model. Production continued until the Revival Series was discontinued in 1993. However, Kasuga production did not last long and by 1988 or 1989, the guitars had no serial numbers and no pot codes to date them.

Guitars built by Kasuga have a serial number ink-stamped into one of the pickup cavities, with the first digit denoting the year and the second digit denoting the month. Unfortunately, there is no reliable way to date guitars from this era except by referencing their pot codes underneath 'M500kOhm', which consist of two digits and a letter.

RSG models built between 1982 and 1986 were manufactured by either Matsumoku or Fujigen, although some early 1982 models may have had serial numbers stamped on the back of the headstock. The vast majority of RSGs from this era lack serial numbers, making them more challenging to date.

One notable aspect of the RSG is that it never received the highly sought-after VH-1 pickups produced between 1985 and 1989. Instead, later models featured post-1989 VH-1 pickups with different specifications. Additionally, while official catalog specs describe the RSG body as two-piece, many examples actually feature a three-piece construction.

Overall, understanding the Fernandes FG serial number requires knowledge of the complex history of guitar production in Japan and the various manufacturers involved. By studying the serial numbers and pot codes, collectors and enthusiasts can gain insight into the provenance of these iconic instruments.

Fernandes fg serial number