A4 serial number discrepancy ?

[Gary W Shoe]

I have an 1914 A4 that has a serial number 17132. But on the block inside the hole, the stamp says 12044. Is this a discrepancy (mistake), or does the number on the block signify something else?

[journeybear]

There's no discrepancy. The number stamped inside on the neck block is the factory order number (FON), which most experts (I am not one) agree is a more accurate indicator of age than the serial number. I believe the FON is issued when the instrument is ordered or when construction begins, and the SN is issued when the instrument is completed. Someone is bound to chime in within minutes of my posting this to explain better the differences and meanings. ;)

This thread (https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/threads/143398-Gibson-Teens-Serial-Numbers?p=1708021) is chock full of information on the subject. Read up on all that in the meantime.

[lflngpicker]

Journeybear, I appreciate this explanation since I have a 1912 and gave my son a 1913. I am going to study this a bit more from your answer. Thank you.

[Eric Platt]

The 1 you are reading may be excess ink from the FON stamp. Or maybe the instrument number of the batch. Spann's book has 2044 as a batch of A-4 mandolins from 1912. (page 67)

[Gary W Shoe]

Thanks for the information about FON !