Serial Numbers
Most modern and many older musical instruments have a serial number imprinted on the body of the instrument to help identify them.
Example of a serial number
These numbers are usually made up of a series of digits, but can include letters as well.
If you need to identify your instrument or an instrument you have found, look over the whole body and try to locate the serial number, etched or printed on the instrument. Also look for the name of the instrument's manufacturer and the model number.
If the serial number has been scratched away, DO NOT BUY IT!
Serial numbers are often scratched off stolen instruments, so they cannot be traced. However great the instrument may seem, never buy one with a corrupted serial number - there are always plenty other legitimate instruments available.