Norman guitars built before 1989 can be dated mainly by the label inside the body of the guitar. In some cases, accurate dating is possible from the serial number.
Circa 1969 – 1970
Guitars built in the early years rarely have a serial number. Some are identified by the company name “Norman Guitar Enrg”. This is often accompanied by a stamp identifying the model.
From 1971 to 1979, each model has its own serial number sequence, starting with 1001. For example, a B20, B30 and B50 can be found with the serial number 2223.
Circa 1971 – 1973
The first label appeared in 1971. This one, a small red label with a central maple leaf, was used until 1973.
Be careful not to confuse this with the large red label used from 1974 (see below).
1974 and 1975
In 1974, and 1975, depending on the model, Norman guitars are identified with a white background label written in red, (sometimes looking brick-red, or brown, due to normal fading over time).
1974 to 1980
The switch from white label to a large red label with white maple leaf took place in 1974 or 1975, depending on the model.
You will notice that this large red label includes bilingual sentence “Fabriqué au Canada – Made in Canada”, which differentiates this sticker from the small red label of 1971 to 1973.
From 1980 onwards, the numbering method was changed with a new type of label: serial numbers are assigned to guitars coming off the production line, in sequence, regardless of model. Each serial number is thus unique.
1980 to 1989
The new label used from 1980 onwards features an effigy of Mr Normand Boucher working on a guitar. The label is surrounded by a strip of yellow maple leaves.
