The Washburn N4 is more than just a signature model; it is a cornerstone of 1990s rock and metal guitar history. Designed in collaboration with the legendary Nuno Bettencourt, the N4 became an instant classic thanks to its unique body shape, the revolutionary Stephens Extended Cutaway (SEC), and its raw, aggressive tone. From the crumbling walls of rock clubs to the polished stages of arena tours, the N4 has been a workhorse for decades.
Unlike generic guitars where a serial number is simply a production tracking code, the Washburn N4 serial number tells a story. Because the N4 has been in production for over 30 years across various factories and price points, the serial number is the primary identifier for:
Some early models used 3 or 4 digits for the instrument number followed by the last two digits of the year (e.g., for instrument #123 in 1991). Hidden Marks: washburn n4 serial numbers
Some N4s have a in the model name (e.g., N4T, N4 Vintage T). This stands for "Terada" – a high-end Japanese factory that produced limited runs of N4s in the early 2000s. These are extremely well-made and have serial numbers starting with T or JT .
If you see a six-digit number combined with a "Made in USA" stamp on the neck plate, you likely have a high-value instrument. These guitars featured hand-wound pickups (Seymour Duncan 59s or Bill Lawrence L-500s in the bridge) and the authentic Stephens Extended Cutaway. The Washburn N4 is more than just a
Year (95). Next 2 digits: Month (12). Remaining: Sequence number. Late 1990s–Present 94000000
If you own a rare Terada or USA N4, write down the serial number, take detailed photos, and insure the guitar. Values for clean E -series N4s have tripled in the last decade, with E1xx models regularly selling for over $5,000. Unlike generic guitars where a serial number is
Unlike Fender or Gibson, Washburn has used multiple serial number formats over the years, varying by factory, country of origin, and era. This guide will walk you through every format, helping you decode your guitar’s birthday, identify rare collectible runs, and avoid fakes.
For a specific run of Japanese-made N4s, Washburn utilized a serial number system that made identification much easier.