When considering the purchase of a guitar, pay attention to the price.
Even if a certificate of authenticity is provided by brands such as Gibson, Fender, or PRS, it could still be subject to fraud. However, the authenticity of a guitar can never be fully guaranteed as serial numbers are easily replicated. If a serial number is not listed or recognized in the decoder, it does not necessarily mean the guitar is fake. Decoders are updated when new serial number formats from recognized manufacturers are known.
Manufacturers may alter their serial number format, particularly in Asian countries where many Western companies have outsourced production.
