Guitarras Alvarez (the original)

Guitars builders, flamenca guitars, classic guitars

277 thoughts on “Guitarras Alvarez (the original)”

  1. Alvarez 5028 question.
    Steve Hughes

    I just acquired an Alvarez 5028
    Serial #40290 inside other base of the neck is123055 last number may be a 6 . Other than that it says Alvarez Handmade. Can anyone tell me anything about it?
    Oh it was inspected by Yamada not sure of the letter before that name. Thanks for any information or dating you may share!

  2. Model 33939l
    Tom

    I’ve had this guitar since I think late 80s I think. I can’t find it anywhere can
    You help me on the value and year. It has a number inside at base of neck 905176

  3. Re: Guitars builders, flamenca guitars, classic guitars Guitarras Alvarez (the original)
    Anonymous

    I HAVE HAD AN ALVAREZ DOVE FOR ABOUT 34 YEARS – VINTAGE 1972 I THINK. IT’S IN VERY GOOD SHAPE, BUT PART OF THE MOTHER OF PEARL DOVE IS MISSING AND THE PICKGUARD IS CRACKED. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE I CAN PURCHASE AN ORIGINAL PICKGUARD FOR IT?

  4. VALUE of Alvarez 5032 - Silver Anniversary 1994
    Jim Hobson

    I just purchased an immaculate 1994 Alvarez model number 5032 Silver Anniversary acoustic guitar. At this time there is not a lot of information available online. I reached out directly to Alvarez for value information. They promptly replied that the best they can offer is the 1994 original sales price was $660 and the Alvarez case was $150.

    The guitar has a natural finish spruce top with ivory banding, mahogany sides and back with a decorative “split seam” on the back. The neck is darker natural finish mahogany. The headstock has the dual A inlay, the fretboard has dot inlays with a bird inlay at the 12th fret.

    The case is navy blue with dark gold Alvarez logo, bright royal blue interior, four brass colored latches, padded carrying handle, one interior compartment.

  5. Alvarez acoustic/electric
    Mary

    Hi. I have an Alvarez that I love… Acoustic/Electric except somebody removed the inner wiring for amp. Model 5082 and serial # 87009. I need to talk with someone who can tell me how to get the electronics working again. It does have the tuner and the amp plug in it… just no wiring.

    This guitar sounds awesome as an acoustic but I need more sound to play with others. Thanks… mary

  6. Alvarez Regent Model 5220 or 5225 Serial # 0222022
    JimDad

    Can anyone give my any information on this guitar? I believe it was given to my father in 1983. It was used when he got it. I would at least like to know the date it was manufactured.

    Thanks

  7. 1982 60th anniversary alvarez artist 5041
    Cam

    Hey all a few years back I was scoping for a cheap acoustic to pick around on and I came across an Alvarez Artist 5041 60th anniversary ser.#000630 acoustic electric at a pawn shop and I got it for 30$.Granted the internal pickup wasn’t in the guitar it plays better than any Martin or even Taylor over ever tried out.I was wondering what is this guitar valued at?I have no desire to ever part with it as it sounds beautiful but I am curious.Thanks for any input!

  8. Year of Alvarez Dove serial # 3092 model 5025 Spruce top
    Kenneth

    Rosewood back and sides ,NOT laminate from what I can see. The backs rosewood matches the inside grain of wood. Top is one piece spruce. Has new Klusen tuners,natural finish on top,not sunburst. Tunomatic bridge. Alvarez script logo.Gibson style headstock .
    I was told it was one of the first Doves made in Japan circa 1969. Can anyone elaborate on this guitar ? It is very heavy ,so it may be laminated,but wood matches from exterior to interior wood
    Plays like a dream,perfect intonation . It is the best acoustic for recording I hVe every owned,absolutely no sustain. Just records chords I.e. Rhythm better than any guitar made. It is not loud at all , this guitar is an anomaly in the studio.
    I also own two Martins D-45 and D -42 … The D 42 blows away the more expensive D 45 and for recording rhythm tracks the Alvarez Dove is better than either Martin.
    Contact me if you know about this guitar and serial number (3094 ) made in Japan model 5025. Very fancy large label inside of a classic man plating a lute ?
    My e mail is jakobian @ Att. Net

  9. Alvarez model 5024/question I haven't seen
    D howell

    I have a model 5024 that I inherited from my dad, Ser number 200422 and date 100687
    my question is the dove on the pick guard has only a dove head, and all that I have seen before is of an entire dove
    body just wondered if you know anything about this guitar, immaculate condition, it is a joy to play. Any info on why it is so different than others. Also how much is it worth or where can I find price guide for these guitars.

  10. guitar pricing
    deano

    I have a
    alvarez fusion 5080N Purchased around 1995 for 8 to 900.00 dollars that is and electrical accoustic in a hard case in mint condition . The serial number is 97030775 and am wanting to sell it . What would a good price be to list it at. Many thanks hdb

  11. Chitarra don alvarez
    francesco

    Salve ho in possesso una chitarra Don Alvarez 22 m exclusive meazzi model del 1973. Sapete dirmi gentilmente che valore commerciale potrebbe avere in questo momento. Grazie

    1. RE: bought an alvarez at an action paid 200$
      KyJones64

      Are you joking??!!! If you got a Kazuo Yairi for $200 you need to play the lottery right now!, lol. A Kazuo Yairi Alvarez can be worth thousands! I have seen them priced from $450-$5,000. These fine guitars are made 1 at a time by Japanese guitar luthier Kazuo Yairi (please excuse my spelling). I think Mr. Yairi might be retired now but when he was working he produced some of the worlds finest n most beautiful guitars. Wow I am jealous. In answer to your question ……………. Yes sir ……. you got a deal!!

  12. Alvarez Dove
    Anonymous

    I purchased this guitar in a pawn shop in 1971. Never learned to play very well, only about 10 hours.I’m 67 years old and would consider sellin it. Can’t find any serial numbers on it.CHERRY. bEST OFFER OVER 3500.00

  13. alvarez classical guitar
    che rico

    I have an Alvarez classical guitar. The model number is 5006. The serial number is 570. Somebody scratched off the country of origin on the tag. Supposedly it was made in Japan. Could you give me info on this?

    1. Re: alvarez model 5046
      Izzy

      : i have an alvarez 5046. i am unaware of the year and lacking a serial #.just trying to find some facts.

      I have the same model, made 04/1972 – 6 string dreadnought, no cutaway. They were made in the 70’s and 80’s, and seem to only be worth around $150 or maybe $200 if pristine – but it plays pretty well and sounds absolutely fantastic. Used to be acoustic-electric when it was new, but mine lost the electronics somewhere along the line, and I’ve replaced most of the hardware on it with the help of a luthier that I know. I got it in a mostly unplayable state of disrepair, so it was sort of a learning fix-it project for me. After replacing tuning machines, frets, saddle, an interior support brace, re-gluing and adjusting the bridge, adjusting the nut, ripping out the dangling pieces that used to be the electronics, and sanding the crud out of the neck it still has a few issues but I have no doubt that if a professional luthier had restored it instead of my friend and I, it would be much better.

      Overall, I think it’s an average playing, great sounding, but fairly inexpensive guitar of reasonably solid quality.

      1. Alvarez 5046
        Terry

        I got it free and it plays and sounds better than a new 300$ guitar.

        Hey get rid of the catcha, it keeps out humans and lets in bots!
        Seventh try to get past catcha.
        8th try, never going to say anything here ever again.

    1. Alvarez slm 5025
      Dan

      What would you like to know about it? The guitar was made at St. Louis Music (slm) in the 70’s
      The same place where Crate amplifiers were made. John Karpowicz was one of the creators of the
      crate, however, I don’t know who started making the Alvarez at SLM. I think the name was added
      on.

  14. Alvarez 5039
    O'Brene Richardson

    My Dad bought a Alvarez 5039, I believe that he got it Christmas 1975. The date on the inside says 2/12/1975, I assume that is the date it was manufactured or completed. The plate says it is 753 of 800. My Day loved that guitar. It is still in mint condition. The case is worn and not in good shape.

    1. Alvarez Artist model 5042
      Jeff Jones

      Good Evening, you were wondering about what your Alvarez Artist, model 5042 (60th. Anniversary) guitar was worth. Well I happen to have the same guitar, I purchased this guitar brand new in 1982, I think I payed somewhere around $350.00 for it and I have wondered like you have of the value of this fine guitar. The numbers on the back of the brass plate on the back of my guitar reads 000072, which means I have the 72nd. 60th. anniversary of the model 5042. I was just looking on ebay and came across the same guitar we own, the seller (JaxPawn) has a “Buy it Now” price of $1299.99. He is stating that this is an extremely rare guitar. I am hoping this is the case, I knew that this guitar may have some value but wasn’t sure if it would be this much. By the way, the numbers on the plate of the guitar he is selling are 000326 so if yours is a lower number like mine is that may be more good news. Now I don’t know if this will be the going rate for these guitars, like I stated above this is the only Alvarez #5042 that I have seen going for that price. Lets keep our fingers crossed, lol. I hope this helps you in some way. Keep on pickin’, have a great evening.

      Jeff Jones

      1. Alvarez 5042
        Bob Menfi

        Hello Jeff…..I am the proud owner of 000073…..I bought it new and was looking for a new case for her…the original one is worn out. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine….I play it in church. Man oh man, what a nice sounding and playing instrument! I’m glad to hear the value is more than I paid for it new. Take care Jeff and enjoy.

      2. Hi, I'm writing The
        Harry Angus

        Hi,
        I’m writing The Encyclopedia Of Jerry Garcia Music Venues. A section of the book chronicles Garcia’s 92 musical instruments. I’m interested in information regarding Serial numbers 44181 and 72982.
        Garcia owned these:
        Alvarez-Yairi DY99 Virtuoso Modulus, 1992
        Alvarez-Yairi DY98, 1991 custom
        Alvarez-Yairi Gy-2

        Can you match the serail numbers to the correct guitar?

        Thanks
        Harry

      3. 5042 Alvarez
        Rick

        I have one as well and it sounds and plays as good as it did when I first it. The serial number is all zeros and 19. If you ever find out the value I would be happy if you shared it. I bought mine in late 1981 for $300 or a little more.

      1. guitar
        Anonymous

        Hi…I was wondering if you found out about the year your RD10 was made. I have a Alvarez RD10 serical # 00428074. Trying to find info as well. Thanks. Dan

  15. alvarez model 5073
    Mack Russell

    Hey guys, I just bought an Alvarez Model 5073 in an estate sale. I think it was made in 81 or 82, is a thin body acoustic/electric with a tone and volume knob. Dark Brown solid color, quite a pretty guitar, and plays well. Can anyone tell me about this particular model, and what it might be worth? I already have someone looking to trade me a new Dean Acoustic model EQA TBK, and don’t want to do anything foolish.

    Thanks!

    1. Mack, Did you trade the
      Mike Mosher

      Mack,

      Did you trade the 5073? I have a thinline 5073 from 1980 sunburst. It fell off the wall and incurred damage. I would like another one. Do you still have yours? If not, might you have any information on who you sold or traded it too?

      Thanks,
      Mike at [email protected]

    2. alvarez 5073
      Maximilian

      Hey Mack,

      Do you, by any chance still have that Alvarez? If so I am interrested to buy or to trade for newer acoustic? I collect old japanese acoustic guitars and shape it is in is of lesser importance, as it will be just in display. If you di not have it any more maybe you have co-ordinates of present owner?

      Regards,

      Max

  16. Value of Alvarez low serial number
    Bill Burkes

    I have a beautiful Alvarez 5051, 60th anniversary edition of SLM 1922-1982, SERIAL NUMBER 000003. It is in like-new condition, mahogany. Beautiful tone and plays and sounds as good as any of my guitars and I have a 1962 Gibson J-50, a 2005 Martin D-42, and several more guitars.

  17. need help finding the guitar I've always wanted.
    Brian W

    Looking for an Alverez, classical silver anniversary edition. Old friend had one in 1990-91. Loved playing that one. Does anybody know the series and or the model #. It would help me greatly in finding one for sale.

  18. need help finding the guitar I've always wanted.
    Brian W

    Looking for an Alverez, classical silver anniversary edition. Old friend had one in 1990-91. Loved playing that one. Does anybody know the series and or the model #. It would help me greatly in finding one for sale.

  19. I am looking to sell an Alvarez Custom 1981 DY60 Yairi Anniversary 6string Acoustic-electric & wanting to know a price. Please email me if you have info or are interested in purchase of this guitar that is in EXCELLENT condition. Thank you, Kathy O.

  20. Alvarez Guitar Model: 5024; Like New Condition
    Keith Feld

    Selling my 1970’s Alvarez Model: 5024 for $500. Very rarely used and looks new. Complete with hard Case.

    Call: Keith Feld at 732-645-2420

      1. Alvarez 5087
        Anonymous

        What do you know about this guitar. Also, I cleaned it up and applied tuner cleaner to the controls, but it still sounds like the ocean. Any suggestions?

  21. alverez model 5024 ser #396 YES 396
    keith

    This guitar is in very good condition with the exception of bowing on the front due to being strung for 40 years, also has stress cracks from this..Anyone know what it is worth,
    Thanks for any response

  22. Alvarez Model 5032 SLM Silver 60th Anniv.
    Jim

    I have had this for over 20 years. Can’t find anything out about it. Its value. How many were made. I have #00052 of how ever many were made. Would like some help. I have looked and looked and cannot find anything.
    Thanks!!

    1. Re: Alvarez Model 5032 SLM Silver 60th Anniv.
      Paco

      : I have had this for over 20 years. Can’t find anything out about it. Its value. How many were made. I have #00052 of how ever many were made. Would like some help. I have looked and looked and cannot find anything.
      : Thanks!!
      I have a 5032 also I was told they were made between 1992 and 1994 .

  23. ned help with my Alverez 5024
    Rob

    I have an Alverez 5024 dove, and it has the adjustable bridge. Well the screw adjusters are not in the bridge but I have them but have no idea how they should go in!!!!!! Please help!!!!!!!!

  24. 1977 Alvarez SLM 5046
    Ken Greimann

    I have a 11-28-77 Alvarez SLM 5046 that I bought new back in 1978. Somebody recently told me this may be a collector’s item. Is that correct?
    Ken

    1. Re: alvarez silver anniversary guitar
      Cher

      I am new at this discussion forum and would like to know if this is a good place to inquire about values of instruments? I own an antique store and get guitars and such in once in a while and I need to know how to price them and who to sell them to. Any help you can offer I am grateful for.

    2. Re: alvarez silver anniversary guitar nr6
      Zack Van Arsdale

      :
      alvarez silver anniversary nr6 guitar acoustic electric. thre nobs. what is value? don’t know year. great shape. RSVP
      thanks~ Zack

  25. How old is my Alvarez fusion
    Doug

    I just picked up a used Alvarez fusion series FD-60 Amber acoustic and was wondering when it was made. It’s the Korean made (not Chinese) with a serial number of 128302.

    Doug

  26. Alvarez Guitar
    Johnna

    I have an Alvarez Cut-away model RD8C Serial number F209070277 with an Alvarez case. I would like to now what year the guitar was made and possibly the present value. It is in great condition.

    1. Re: Alvarez acoustic electric model # 5086..
      Susan Guy

      : My father traded an off-brand guitar for an old Alvarez model 5086. It was pretty beat up, but he’s cleaning it up. Just curious how old and much it is worth. Dad would like to know. Thanks…

      I’ve found out that it is a "silver anniversary" edition guitar. Would like to know if it has any value. Thanks

      1. Re: Alvarez acoustic electric model # 5086..
        John Berwald

        : : My father traded an off-brand guitar for an old Alvarez model 5086. It was pretty beat up, but he’s cleaning it up. Just curious how old and much it is worth. Dad would like to know. Thanks…

        : I’ve found out that it is a "silver anniversary" edition guitar. Would like to know if it has any value. Thanks

        I bought one new and had it refretted a couple years later. It is by far my favorite acoustic. I’m not real fond of the electronics, but with a little coaxing it can sound pretty good through a P.A. system. I use Martin light gauge strings. As far as value i think I paid ~$700.oo new.

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Susan Guy
      Susan Guy

      My father traded an off-brand guitar for an old Alvarez model 5086. It was pretty beat up, but he’s cleaning it up. Just curious how old and much it is worth. Dad would like to know. Thanks…

    1. Juan Alvarez Madrid
      Cesar

      The value really depends on the model and condition, Juan and his Brother Lorenzo had very good skills with some mentoring by Barbero although good instruments they really did not get the player to move there guitars forward. If you contact me with some info I can be a little more specific.
      regards
      Cesar

    1. Re: Alverez 5024 - 1975
      Andy Trivette

      they have been bringing between $150.00 and $300.00 on ebay I am looking to buy one haven’t found one made in my Birth year is what I am looking for. 1975 is the magic year interested in selling it?
      Thanks,
      Andrew

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Roy N
      Roy N

      I have acquired an Alvarez guitar with this model number FW35/5. It has "crafted from selected timbers" on the Alvarez label and the back has a lighter, inlaid panel of satinwood? Instead of the usual mirror image A’s on the neck there is the Alvarez signature. There is no indication of year and I have not been able to find any reference online to this model. Please help with any information – age or value, etc.

    1. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      Jay

      Just bought the guitar you’re talking about from a flea market in MS. Got it for 400 bucks and it plays great. Model #33, has the knick on the back and everything! Email me if anyone finds out how much these things are worth!

    2. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      D Wade

      I have #142 ~ found it in a pawn shop around ’83/84 kept my eyes on it for several months before I broke down and got it.

      Always a nice tone, even with old / dead strings. I never played this unit much, was always afraid of scratching the top (no pick guard). If I was more of a lead player, picker ~ I would like it better.

      Any offers?

      I am looking to sell to get another Alvarez, looking for a AD60CK Koa Cutaway, with pick-up.

      1. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
        Ray Laue

        : I have #142 ~ found it in a pawn shop around ’83/84 kept my eyes on it for several months before I broke down and got it.

        : Always a nice tone, even with old / dead strings. I never played this unit much, was always afraid of scratching the top (no pick guard). If I was more of a lead player, picker ~ I would like it better.

        : Any offers?

        : I am looking to sell to get another Alvarez, looking for a AD60CK Koa Cutaway, with pick-up.

        please call me 404-822-4939 or email me at [email protected] for possible offer…

        ray laue

      2. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
        Ray Laue

        : I have #142 ~ found it in a pawn shop around ’83/84 kept my eyes on it for several months before I broke down and got it.

        : Always a nice tone, even with old / dead strings. I never played this unit much, was always afraid of scratching the top (no pick guard). If I was more of a lead player, picker ~ I would like it better.

        : Any offers?

        : I am looking to sell to get another Alvarez, looking for a AD60CK Koa Cutaway, with pick-up.

    3. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      Mark Hinton

      : HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051
      It took awhile to get back. Thanks for all the follow-ups. Guitar was in accident.Nicked on back. Insurance paid $750.00. Hope this helps some.

    4. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      Dan

      FWIW I have #120 bought for $150 in a pawn shop a few years ago -way cool gutar love playing it.Info on it does seem to be scarce

    5. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      don

      : HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051 mine i s
      1039 linder music replacced my volume switch i replaced my bridge a few years ago a martin owner used it in acosamtic jam id it rang like his martin

    6. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      Dan Downing

      :
      Hi Mark:
      I too have this guitar and bought it while in the music business back in 1982. I have serial number 151. I actually played 001!!!! The salesman from St. Louis stopped at the store to show it off and I had to have one. I put in the case and have rarely played it. I keep hoping it may worth a lot of money. Have you gotten any responses from your question. Drop me a line.

      HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051

      1. Alvarez 5051
        Ray

        Where and when did you play ser # 000001? Just curious… I sold one in the 80’s at a pawn shop in Memphis Bought it from ob Fisher’s Music store for 350.00 and pawned it for 100.00 I regret it…

        anyone know how many made? what is te highest serial # anyone can verify?

        Thanks…

        Ray
        404-822-4939

      2. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
        Mark Sitter

        I jut bought one of these as well my number is 000052 I have no clue either how much these are worth but they do play well.
        : :
        : Hi Mark:
        : I too have this guitar and bought it while in the music business back in 1982. I have serial number 151. I actually played 001!!!! The salesman from St. Louis stopped at the store to show it off and I had to have one. I put in the case and have rarely played it. I keep hoping it may worth a lot of money. Have you gotten any responses from your question. Drop me a line.

        : HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051

    7. Re: Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
      ron

      : HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051
      I have several Alvarezs..all old…a 5062 from ’76, a 5059 from ’79, a 5088C from ’96, and a 5054 from 78. I don’t know anything about this model but I might be interested if you want to sell.

    8. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Mark Hinton
      Mark Hinton

      HI, I have had this guitar for many years and it has the delicate engravings for the sound. Mine is serial #000033. I was curious how many were made and How much it is worth. Thanks. Alvarez 5051

      1. Serial # 5051 Alvarez
        Anonymous

        I have this guitar. Where do I find the serial number? I think it’s one of the originals based on posts I’ve read because string heads are rattling around in it but the gold Picard with “Aniversary Edition” isn’t on back of head stock. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

      2. Alvarez model 5051 60th Anniversary Guitar
        Fred Tew

        I have the one with the open floral design. There is no serial number anywhere to be found. Sounds amazing, even better then my Gibson! I would sell it for $1200 with the hard case. anyone interested please email me [email protected]

      3. Model 5051 60th Anniversary SLM Alvarez
        Anonymous

        I have two 5051 guitars. The first is SN:109 (made in late 1981, sold in 1982) which is the St. Louis Music 60th Anniversary edition. There were only 200 of those made. I know this from direct discussion with factory service person. The other is SN:000295 which was made and sold in 1983 (the last year they were produced). You can tell the anniversary model from the “gold” placard on the back of head stock which say’s it is an anniversary edition. The 1983 models just had a SN sticker on the back of the head stock. Neither of mine have the oval cut-outs. Both sound unbelievably amazing. Best projection of any guitar, any manufacturer, I own. The sound board is mostly the reason but the vintage mahogany also plays its part in that sound. Alvarez is my favorite guitar brand. Best sound and playability for the price. I originally had a 1982 model SN 13? which I bought in 1982 Fresno CA for $350. I sold it in 1985 and regretted it immediately. Spent 30 years looking and got both of my current models within the last 9 months. I saw on EBay that SN 001 was sold in Oct of 2014. I would really like to start a website about vintage Alvarez guitars. I also have 1973 5046 which plays like a dream.

      4. alvarez artist 5051
        kathy

        I have serial #000135.

        Someone gave it to me. Beautiful! No pick guard, no holes in the carvings.

        Now I know I better take care of it! Was just ready to let my guitar playing son take it back with him to college and on a whim we looked it up!!!!

        No way, this baby stays home with me!

        KR

      5. Alvarez 5051
        Tony Moye

        I own this guitar and purchased new in 84 from a local music store. It was a fith year wedding anniversary gift from my wife. Evidently, I have one of the earlier examples because there are no ovals in the floral engravings. It is in pristine condition. I cant find a serial number on it. Anyone have an idea of the value of one in perfect like new condition?

        1. 60th alv sn 5051
          tammy

          i cant find mine either its a first batch no oval cut out but mine in 82 at oceana va , va bch for $50.00 30 yrs later still plays like a dream. sn suppose to be inside ive looked and looked cant find one dont much matter ill be dead & gone before somebody else ownes this one . you can pretty much name your price in perfect condition

      6. 5051 60th anniversary Alvarez
        Anita

        Can anyone tell me where I might find a serial number for this guitar I know it is not the first batch because the laser cut is not open but it has very ornate and I have to use a flashlight to see inside of it all I can see is handmade Alvarez

      7. 60th 5051 slr
        rom

        I have 000015 I was told only 200 copys were ever made . Not sure how true that is
        But all that being said it is a very sweet guitar I have 40 alvarez guitars most yari
        The 5051 is one of my fav. To play due to its unreal sound projection

        1. 5051 with ovals
          Anonymous

          Were can I find the numbers on my 5051. The only thing on the inside says Alvarez Hand Made placed on a rib. I bought the guitar new back in 1984 at a hometown music store in Kansas. Any ideas

        2. Alvarez model 5051
          Jaime Blackwell

          i have talked to two different guitar techs from alvarez and they worked there when this model was produced. There are no known records of this production model left as per the age and the fact that they just didnt keep them for a long period of time back then..The 60TH anniversary model # 5051 was produced at the end of 1981 into 1982 in 3 separate batches. Both techs confirm this. the first batch was the model with nothing but the laser cut floral design on each side of the fret board where it was attached to the neck. This design was revised in the next two batches because ( as some of you know) if a string broke the nut on the end would fall inside and there was no opening i the body to remove it.so it was stuck in there to rattle forever! the next two batches that came through with an oval hole i the center of each floral design. This also really opened up the sound projection. The next batch came through he same way.. I as also told there were some where around 200 made total from the 3 batches. one tech told me it sold for $489.00 new and the other told me $349.00 new. I’m going with the 489.00 because i read an article on line about these guitars and the person writing it was a former music store owner who remembered selling them for $489.00.
          $489.00 is not a lot to pay for a guitar by today’s standard but in 1982 it was a lot of money for a guitar! although I will state this for the record, you can purchase a real nice sounding guitar for that money today if you buy an Alvarez.. Their $200- $300.00 dollar models sound far better than any others out there in the same price range. yet they are look upon by to a deaf ear (so to speak) in favor of the Fenders, Yamaha’s, Epiphone’s and Ibanez to name just a few. All mass produced and all very generic sounding.. Its too bad.
          To end this I will say, who know what they are worth. mine personally (in my opinion) sounds better than the 2000.00 Maritin’s and Gibson’s. the Taylor’s for the same money cant even compare. I brought mine into guitar center and played it up against these other guitars. The guitar tech offered me 1500.00 for it after playing it for a less than a min. i asked what the trade in value was and they offered me $275.00 because of a small nick on the head stock where my daughter dropped it. Needless to say I still have the guitar. My daughters future was not so clear at the time. consider them baseball cards their worth what ever someone is willing to pay for them at that particular time.. i also have a 1977 fender that is one of the last American made fender acoustics and after 35 years it sounds amazing. if i had to give one away it would still be the Fender. Not because of the quality but because the Alvarez was willed to me by my father on his passing.. That makes it priceless to me. for the rest of you, if they made 200 of them 30 years ago its safe to say that there is only a probable 150 left in existence and out of those, how many are in good to very good condition aesthetically and musically. its safe to say this guitar will be a collectors item in the next 10-20 years and could be worth a hell of a lot of money by then.. just howmuch a collector will pay for your “Micky Mantle bubble gum card”? well that depends on how many cards that are left get close pinned to the spokes of someones bicycle tires!!! Happy playing ya’ll!

          1. Alvarez guitar with the laser cut sound holes
            Anonymous

            I bought this item on a whim thinking I would take lessons. The guy in the store played it for me so I could hear what it sounded like. I only took a few lessons, at the time I was pregnant. I never learned to play it. It is in showroom condition. Mine must have been the first run because there is no access to the inside. I still have the sales receipt. I paid $350 plus $150 for a hard case.

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