Hamer USA Serial Numbering System

From 1974 through at least 1984 Hamer USA employed two separate serial numbering systems, one for custom instruments and one for production models. Since 1984 all instruments have been numbered according to the Production Model system, including standard production line guitars and all special orders.

Custom Instruments: These instruments are easily recognized by the use of a four digit number stamped into the wood on the back of the headstock. According to Hamer the numbers ran from # 0000 through # 0680, however numbers into the mid 0700's have been reported and may go as high as the low 0800's. All of the early Hamer USA Standards and 12-string basses such as the Quad Bass as well as a number of prototype instruments were included in this serial numbering system.

Production Models: Starting in 1977 the production models are stamped (initially with ink, later into the wood, on the back of the headstock) with either a five or six digit serial number. The first digit indicates the year that the instrument was built. The next four or five digits are sequentially stamped in order of production. For example, serial number 7 0001 was built in 1977 and was the first production model guitar built. Similarly, 0 1964 was built in 1980 and was the 1,964th production guitar built. The serial numbering sequence by decade is as follows:
 

Imported Hamer Chaparral 12-string basses (model CH-12 and CH-12XT) have a seven digit serial number.