![yamaha fg 75 red label value yamaha fg 75 red label value](https://i2.wp.com/yamahavintagefg.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FG-180-Fret-Markers.jpg)
This date code was probably stamped when they made the sides, not when the guitar was assembled.Year 1 is 1926, therefore year 41 is 1966. In this case it’s the SHOWA period, the reign of Emperor Hirohito, which started in 1926. It’s the Japanese year based on the reign of the current Emperor. The year isn’t the normal year we are used to.The date code is located on either side of the lower bout.Typically 3 to 6 weeks before it’s finished.
![yamaha fg 75 red label value yamaha fg 75 red label value](https://i0.wp.com/yamahavintagefg.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Early-FG-150-Pick-Guard.jpg)
This date code will be very close to when the guitar was built. While the serial number is visible, although not always usable to determine the date of manufacture, there is a Date Code ink stamped on the inside of all early FG’s, except most FG-75’s.