Goya – Levin – Greco (Vintage Guitars)

The only site in the world dedicated to Goya guitars – as well as Levin and “Goya” Greco brand guitars. Learn about the history of these fine musical instruments. Lots of old magazine ads, catalogs and price lists.

311 thoughts on “Goya – Levin – Greco (Vintage Guitars)”

  1. greco goya
    Lee Etta

    I have a greco goya guitar made in yugoslavia, model #GR-7. I would like to know if anyone knows anything about this model guitar.
    Sincerely, Lee Etta

  2. Goya medalist series M-30
    woe schild

    I purchased a Goya Medalist series M-30 guitar today via an ad in the paper for $25. It’s mint. It says made in Korea, serial # 5167.
    Is it worth anything? (besides my satisfaction of owning one) thanks!

    1. Hey,

      I have a Medalist M-30 series as well. I’m trying to find information but it’s pretty sparse. Once Goya was ‘bought’ by Martin and production moved to from Sweden to Korea, the Goya brand lost it’s luster.

      However, I think this guitar sounds amazing. I wish I knew a bit more about it’s construction. I have a feeling that the top of the M-30 is ply, but I’m going to take a closer look this evening. I would love to compare this to an authentic, Made in Nazareth, PA 1970s Martin Dreadnought – I have a feeling this would stack up.

      I found an interesting thread on the ‘Unofficial Martin Website’ that relates more to the Sigma and :

      http://theunofficialmartinguitarforum.yuku.com/reply/984781/Does-anyone-recognise-this-guitar#reply-984781

      Gives some interesting insight into the Canadian arm of C.F. Martin and the ‘transitional’ period Martin was going through.

      To me it seems like Canada is the only place where these guitars are found… I wonder why?

      @woe schild – do you happen to live in Canada?

      nyoung

  3. Goya M22 acoustic guitar/ Made in Sweden
    Lana Soens

    Hello,
    Can anyone contribute information about this guitar. It is in its original case. I was told it is only worth about $100.00. I think they are wrong. Although I was asked to leave it at the shop for an estimate on minor repairs. This guitar by far feels and sounds great for its age.
    Thanks

    1. Re: Goya M22 acoustic guitar/ Made in Sweden
      Magnus H

      They regularly go for 200-300$ on Ebay. It was the lowest in the line of steelstringed flattops of the 50:s and 60:s but it is a solid wood with adjustable trussrod. The M-22 was birch back and sides. It has a bolted neck so a neck reset is fairly low cost.

      /Magnus

  4. greco and goya 12 string
    Steve Petersen

    I have two greco guitars, both model 122, serial#17580 & 38171, would like to know how to date them and what their worth. Also I have a Goya 12 string TS-4 Serial # 4123034. Like to know what date it is and what it is worth. thanks

  5. Greco GR4 (by Goya, Yugoslavia) serial # in the 20's
    billy thomas

    ive been looking all over for information on a guitar i inherited from my aunt. i was wondering if anybody could help me with any more information on a
    Greco model: GR-4, "designed, serviced and adjusted by Goya Guitars, INC." also notes "made in yugoslavia. the serial number is 00027. if anybody has/knows anything about them (quality, rarity, price…any of that) please let me know?
    billy

    1. Re: Levin guitar
      Magnus H

      The equivalent of Levin 111 is Goya G-30. Your serial no dates it to 1963.

      I have followed Goya auctions on Ebay for some years now and would say that a G-30 normally goes for 500 – 1300 $.

      My experience however is that Levin branded instruments reaches higher prices than their Goya equivalents.

      1. Levin guitar
        Steve

        Hi is there any information on a Levin modell 123. It has AB Herman Carlson Levin. thanks

        The equivalent of Levin 111 is Goya G-30. Your serial no dates it to 1963.

        : I have followed Goya auctions on Ebay for some years now and would say that a G-30 normally goes for 500 – 1300 $.

        : My experience however is that Levin branded instruments reaches higher prices than their Goya equivalents.

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

      My Levin guitar was purchased in Europe in 1963. It is a model 111 with serial number 434021 (I think; it is a little hard to read). Is there a cross-walk with the Goya label (as marketed in the US); that is, what is the Goya equivalent of a Levin model 111? I was offered $3500 for the instrument by a lutist some years ago.

      1. Levin 111 for sale
        Christian Nielsen

        I have a Levin 111 in original case, both items are in exellent condition. If this has any interrest I can provide pictures and serial number, then You can send me a bid.

      2. levin guitar
        Anonymous

        Serial number 3315630 model number 115. I have owned it since I was 13! A very long time, is this a 55 or 56? It had some work done to the bottom, has been re-glued by professional but obviously has some aesthetic issues so the value isn’t there anymore but sounds fantastic!
        Thanks

      1. Re: Levin Guitar Models
        hugh

        : I have a Stradivarius model identical to the one advertised on e-bay, its serial number is 372121. It is an excellent instrument.

        I have a Levin Stradivarius acoustic guitar. It was made in Sweden but I can’t find a serial number. I acquired it in late 1950’s, from a friend so don’t know how old it is. I would like to know it’s value.

        1. Re: Levin Guitar Models
          Gary

          Hugh, If you look on the top of the head of the guitar you will see the serial number stamped in the wood.The age can then be determined. Stradivarius models were made around 1958-9. I have seen them advertised between $450 and $750.

    1. Re: M-24 series Goya guitar
      Magnus H

      I would say that this guitar is covered by the Levin serial lists, it is if the label says "Made By Herman Carlsson Levin, Gothenburg Sweden". This makes it model year 1958.

      Value?
      Last one I saw sold on Ebay went for aprox $450.

    1. Re: GOYA ACOUSTIC 6 STRING MODEL G-335S SERIAL #91060000058
      Paul Cioe

      Bill,

      I’ve got one too. Beautful to look at…Nice copy of a Martin D 28 or 35, herringbone rosette, etc. I think the sides and back are SOLID rosewood, with bookmatched figures that match up on the inside. Does your label say Goya, CF Martin, made in Korea? Could have been made from the late mid-70s to the late 80s. Beautiful guitar, and a steal for the 150 bucks I paid. It should should a little better than it does, though.

      1. Re: GOYA ACOUSTIC 6 STRING MODEL G-335S SERIAL #91060000058
        Bangkok Johnson

        Here’s the deal guys, just like radio shack is an un-named company that makes electronic stuff for a lot of higher end labels, and Pinnacle vodka is actually made at the Grey Goose plant but sells for half the price, the Goya is a ligitimate Martin guitar, but it it was made in Korea. I’ve owned my G335S since it was born in 1989, at least mine was, complete with all the detailed trim work and inlays. I fell in love with it at a little guitar shop owned by my then guitar teacher. I couldn’t take my eyes off the details, particularly the headstock inlays that resemble the Queenryche "Empire" album logo, or whatever you want to call it. Yes, not a good reason to buy a guitar, but 20 years later I’m glad I did. Put the right strings on that MF’er and it sounds like heaven. There’s a reason for that. Sure it is the B-version of the D-35 and if you had the $$$ you could buy a new martin for about 3 grand, but it will take 20 years for it to sound the way the Goya does. A solid top guitar mellows with age and the sound improves dramatically. You can’t fake that or speed up the process. I’ve played the snot out of the thing for 20 years and the sound has only gotten better. Unless you’re Paul Bunyon or have some really masochistic feelings for your fingers, I recommend using the lightest acoustic strings possible. The thing will still let out some gorgeous low end bass sounds effortlessly. I’ve played an ass load of acoustic guitar in the last 20 years and nothing beats this gem for the cost. If you can find one, buy it, you’ll be saving yourself 1000’s of dollars. Nothing in its price range can match the sound. I paid $450 for mine new and it has endured faithfully.
        Shit, you can barely get a half decent Yamaha for that price now.

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... BILL MCMILLAN
      BILL MCMILLAN

      I can’t find any information about this guitar, I have seen a lot of goya guitars but none with this much detail. tree of life inlay on the fret board, design on the headstock, zig zag pattern on the back, rosewood back and sides,and solid spruce top with a clear coat finish. any ideas ?????

  6. 1949 3n Royal Levin guitar need info
    Patrick Madsen

    Hello, I am traveling to Sweden and may want to pick up a Levin while I am there. I saw a 3n Royal archtop (1949)for sale on the net. Looks interesting, any comments from anyone? Thanks, Parick

  7. unknown levin
    STEVE

    Hello

    I have aquired a Levin LDM-18 of which i can not find any information on.It has a martin stamp on the inside and indicates that it was made in japan. can anyone help with when it was made or any other information would be greatly appreciated.

    /thanks steve.

    1. Re: unknown levin
      Magnus H

      Steve,

      I am nor exactly shure what You´ve got there, but it seems to be a Japan-made Martin D-18 clone, most likely laminate wood. In the early eighties atempts were made by Martin to market Levin branded guitars, which were nothing but re-branded Sigmas.

      The same models were avaliable Sigma branded, most likely there are identical instruments sigma branded labeled SDM-18. The model code were sort of ased on the D-18 , with the prefix S or L for Sigma or Levin. The M was for Mahogany top veneer in back and sides.

      I have seen some SDR-18:s and LDR-28:s which are clones of a Martin D-28, branded Sigma or Levin, with R for "Rosewood look".

      /Magnus

      1. Re: unknown levin
        Palle Brix

        http://www.vintage-guitars.se/Levin_LDM_18_info.htm

        : Steve,

        : I am nor exactly shure what You´ve got there, but it seems to be a Japan-made Martin D-18 clone, most likely laminate wood. In the early eighties atempts were made by Martin to market Levin branded guitars, which were nothing but re-branded Sigmas.

        http://www.vintage-guitars.se/Levin_LDM_18_info.htm

        : The same models were avaliable Sigma branded, most likely there are identical instruments sigma branded labeled SDM-18. The model code were sort of ased on the D-18 , with the prefix S or L for Sigma or Levin. The M was for Mahogany top veneer in back and sides.

        : I have seen some SDR-18:s and LDR-28:s which are clones of a Martin D-28, branded Sigma or Levin, with R for "Rosewood look".

        : /Magnus

  8. levin guitar 1973 36w
    Scott S

    Hi I bought this guitar last year, it is in very good condition for its age, I had it checked out by a guitar restorer. its a 1973 levin model 36w.I was wandering what this guitar maybe worth? its a very rare guitar in Australia. I bought it for $850AUS.
    scott

    1. Re: levin guitar 1973 36w
      Magnus H

      Scott,

      It is hard for me to comment on prices on Swedish guitars in Australia. With the current exchange rate 850 AUD would be around 5000SEK, which is probably what a well kept W-36 would sell for in Sweden, at the maximum. They are pretty rare, but nevertheless, You find them quite cheap sometimes, probably because it does not look very fancy.

      It was the cheapest in Levins range of flattops 1973 – 1979, but still it is a well made instrument in solid materials. I have one myself, a 1974) and I must say that it is one of the nicest sounding guitars I have played.

      I have head and read many complaints on the plastic saddle screws, which were later exchanged to a traditional bone saddle. Many owners have modified the bridge to carry a bone saddle, which is said to improove the sound.

      I have managed to make new saddlescrews of bone material, because I find the screws very convienient to get perfect action, string by string.

      If I were You I would keep the guitar.

  9. Levin Guitar
    Marie Torres

    I have a Levin guitar, I have had it for about 52 years, excellent condition. The guitar was made in Sweden, and the Number on the neck of the Guitar is 269898-27. I would appreciate some information, thank you.

    1. Re: Levin Guitar
      Magnus H

      Here You are:

      The serial number for 1951: 243440 – 271455

      Your Guitar is most likely a model 27 "Texas". It is a Sunburst steelstringed guitar with following spec:
      – Sides and bottom in birch
      – Top of resonant spruce
      – Fretboard of Walnut
      – White edging on top, bottom and soundhole
      – Spannish style Rosewood bridge
      Length 965 mm
      Length of body 465 mm
      Width of body 355 mm
      Scale length 630 mm
      1 Year Warranty

  10. Levin acoustic - built in 1925
    Henry

    can someone give me an approximate value for my Levin acoustic guitar. I´ve checked the serial number (55540)and according to the list, it was built in 1925. It is a parlor guitar with steel-strings. Thru the sound-hole I can make out "HERMAN CARLSON LEVIN Musikinstrument fabrik, Goteborg" which is stamped into the wood bottom. The guitar is in very good condition, with all original parts. I´m a luthier so I can honestly say it´s very impressive, considering the age of the instrument.I heard someone was asking for 2000 dollars for a similar one on E-bay about 6 months ago. Can this be true?

      1. Re: Levin parlour guitar serial No357234
        Neil Reay Bennett

        You are correct Magnus,
        I missed a digit off the end..
        Have these guitars have any saleable value woud you say?

        Its a 119 model.
        Cheers neil.

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Neil Reay Bennett
      Neil Reay Bennett

      Hi guys,
      I have a Levin guitar as descrbed.
      I think its dated around 1917 according to the serial number.
      I am thinking of parting with it but have no idea of a value.
      Its in a very decent playable state, few normal dings, crack up the back, nice straight neck, no fretboard/fret wear at all.
      Any ideas are welcome as I am completely stuck.
      Thanks Neil.

  11. Levin, acoustic, Model No. 123
    Christine

    I got a Levin guitar from my great grandmother when I was 14. And she got it from her uncle when she was a kid I have heard.

    Does anyone know the age of my guitar?

  12. Vintage Levin BT 315 Model?
    Kate

    Hi all,
    I have a vintage Levin semi acoustic guitar (Model # BT315, was written on the inside of the guitar.) I was just wondering if anyone would be able to help me out about finding a price guide, as i would like to sell the guitar.

    Thanks for your help
    Kate

  13. Greco w-120 12 string
    Joe Ickler

    have this great guitar. acquired from old buddy. neck was snapped in half in 1970’s or 80’s can’t remember. Buddy tried everything to glue it back. Nothing worked except a homemade epoxy he created out of the blue. Every things stays in tune in any weather condition and no matter what you do to the guitar. All 12 STRINGS!!! would like some info when this w-120 was made and anything else about it

    1. Re: Levin guitar - please help with details
      Magnus H

      Kit,

      I forgot the part where You asked if it is worth doing repairs on it.

      I depends on what repair we are talking about. A neck reset on these may be costly, but on the other hand that is normally not required as Levins had very strong necks.
      If strung up with steelstrings they may start to move though.

      If the repair is reglueing of the bridge or loose braces or fix up of cracks, ask for a price. Tuners can be replaced if damaged.

      My experience is that these instruments are nice players. Perhaps not for the proffesional musician but they are certainly nicer than most asian made cheep guitars of today, with laminated woods and mechanics that looks to be from the toy store.

      They normally bring in a couple of hundred dollars if auctioned out on Ebay to…

      /Magnus

    2. Re: Levin guitar - please help with details
      Paul Cox

      Kit,
      Match Levin serial numbers to date of manufacture at http://www.gitarren.se/radotips/sernr_levin.html. would make yours 1963; if they are accurate. From what I’ve seen and played, Levin seem to be very high quality guitars, I wouldn’t part with my ’65 model 335. In my opinion it would be worth completing minor repairs (professionally) if you enjoy playing it as much as I do. As for repair cost versus guitar value, I have no idea; Maybe Magnus H will give further follow up; he seems to know his onions, and Levins.
      regards
      Paul

    3. Re: Levin guitar - please help with details
      Magnus H

      Kit,

      Your guitar is year 1963.
      The 115 is "grand concert size", neck, sides and bottom of aged mahogany, top of Alpspruce, fretboard of Rosewood.
      Levin had a 10 year warranty to the original owner on this model which makes it one of the finer in their classical line. The scale is 650 mm.

      /Magnus

    4. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Kit Williams
      Kit Williams

      I have a Levin guitar, with the model number 115 and the serial number 430871 stamped into the top of the head. Copuld someone please tell me the year of manufacture and the model of this guitar – if possible, It requires some minor repair work and would it be worth doing so.
      Kindest regards
      Kit.

    1. Re: Greco 980 circa 1968 MIJ - any info
      Sawyer

      Hey Mike – I have the same model but the neck is cracked and the rest needs a good deal of work to be playable.

      1) do you still have this guitar?

      2) interested in selling either the neck only or the entire guitar?

      let me know. thanks.

    2. Re: Greco 980 circa 1968 MIJ - any info
      scott

      : Came across this cool old bird ( no serial number ) Greco " Gneco " logo and think I may have tracked her origins down from the Goya Greco 1968 catalog. She has the metal top hat knobs Anyone know more about this era ? ( timing was same year as Shrike ). One of the other Greco forums think that she could well be a Fuji Gen built for Goya to import to USA. She is very similar to Ibanez MIJ of the same period. My friends son is interested in buying her, showed her to me and asked me how much to restore her and if I would do some digging. It is a little out of my comfort zone as I usually play with late 70’s to mid 80’s MIJ. I have not been able to take her apart yet as he took her back to the current owner but here are a couple of pics. She has the typical problem with string slipping off the neck and badly needs a reset on the neck. Frets look reasonable and neck is good. She is missing the vibrato, ashtray and someone badly fitted an oversize nut ! Pick ups and switches are fine – wiring is Japanese syle and pots are the large variety. Any ideas on parts availabilty for these on evilbay or similar ? Opinions welcome on if she is a project worthy of trying to restore or if should I tell him she is now a parts recycling job.

      : http://s213.photobucket.com/albums/cc144/guinnessmikey/

      hey mike…i was wondering if you found any info about the ’68 goya 980. i just got one in excellent condition. let me know if you got some answers. THX & happy holidays 1

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Mike
      Mike

      Came across this cool old bird ( no serial number ) Greco " Gneco " logo and think I may have tracked her origins down from the Goya Greco 1968 catalog. She has the metal top hat knobs Anyone know more about this era ? ( timing was same year as Shrike ). One of the other Greco forums think that she could well be a Fuji Gen built for Goya to import to USA. She is very similar to Ibanez MIJ of the same period. My friends son is interested in buying her, showed her to me and asked me how much to restore her and if I would do some digging. It is a little out of my comfort zone as I usually play with late 70’s to mid 80’s MIJ. I have not been able to take her apart yet as he took her back to the current owner but here are a couple of pics. She has the typical problem with string slipping off the neck and badly needs a reset on the neck. Frets look reasonable and neck is good. She is missing the vibrato, ashtray and someone badly fitted an oversize nut ! Pick ups and switches are fine – wiring is Japanese syle and pots are the large variety. Any ideas on parts availabilty for these on evilbay or similar ? Opinions welcome on if she is a project worthy of trying to restore or if should I tell him she is now a parts recycling job.

      http://s213.photobucket.com/albums/cc144/guinnessmikey/

  14. Greco model GR628, HOW MUCH??
    morgan barber

    i recently acquired a pristine Greco acoustic. its a model GR628, serial number 37604. I was wondering if anyone knew how much this is worth? you can email me or whatever. thanks!

    1. Re: Greco model GR628, HOW MUCH??
      FrEeBoRn

      Couldnt tell ya. I have the gr625 S.N 21140 Its about 40 something years old right now though. Mine is the remake of the gibson hummingbird I think.

  15. 1959-1960 Goya guitar price
    Pam Bush

    Would like to sell my Goya, Model 90, SN 466/041 black semi-hollow body electric guitar and case in good condition. What do you think it is worth?

    1. Re: 1959-1960 Goya guitar price
      jason

      : Would like to sell my Goya, Model 90, SN 466/041 black semi-hollow body electric guitar and case in good condition. What do you think it is worth?

      did you sell it?

    1. Re: Levin - how to tell whether it's original?
      Stefan Lassila

      : Hi
      : In the eighties I bought a guitar "labled" Levin Model LG13 with a serial number on a sticker inside. The number is 531365.
      : How can I tell it’s an original or not?
      : Thanks
      : Lukas

      Hi, Lucas!
      Look at this
      http://www.johaneliasson.com/under_sidor/levin.htm
      The guitar are made in 1974
      You can see it on the list in the page
      Have a nice day gratings from Sweden

    2. Re: Levin - how to tell whether it's original?
      Magnus H

      Lucas,

      Why should You be in doubt that it is an original?
      The LG13 is a medium to low level classical guitar in solid woods. It is most famous for being in the movie Sound of Music, strummed by Julie Andrews. It was really a Goya G-13, but it is the same guitar.
      The number indicates that it is made 1974.

      /Magnus

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Lukas
      Lukas

      Hi
      In the eighties I bought a guitar "labled" Levin Model LG13 with a serial number on a sticker inside. The number is 531365.
      How can I tell it’s an original or not?
      Thanks
      Lukas

      1. Levin LN 26
        Martin M

        I have a Levin Goliath which I bought second hand in about 1972. According to the serial no it’s 1968. Any idea on value? Condition is used, ie not mint but not beaten up.

      1. Re: Levin acoustic - built in 1925
        Henry

        Magnus: thanks for showing interest in my inquiry. I have one more piece of info regarding my Levin guitar. The headstock is like the one on classical nylon stringed guitars.(the tuning pegs hang down under the headstock)The serial number is 55540, if that´s of any help. Tack for now.

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

      Howdy: can someone give me some info on a Levin acoustic guitar with serial number 55540. I believe they call this a "parlor guitar". Inside the guitar reads "Herman Carlson Levin" musikinstrumentfabrik Göteborg
      It has no fancy trimmings. There are no fret dots either. Can you tell me what this model is called and approximately what the guitar is worth.
      It is in excellent playing condition. Sounds beautiful. Thanks, Henry in Jakobstad, Finland.

  16. Model GR627K 12 String Greco
    Pat Hendrix

    I bought this guitar in about 1973 new in Little Rock, AR. My brother went down and bought one just like it. I now have both of them. Just wondering what they are worth. Both are in very good condition. A few surface scratches but nothing major. Sound better today than when they were new. Thanks, Pat

    1. Re: Model GR627K 12 String Greco
      Lindsey

      : I bought this guitar in about 1973 new in Little Rock, AR. My brother went down and bought one just like it. I now have both of them. Just wondering what they are worth. Both are in very good condition. A few surface scratches but nothing major. Sound better today than when they were new. Thanks, Pat

      Did you ever find out anything about this guitar. Thanks

  17. Levin guitars
    Gordon Cree

    I have a Levin jumbo accoustic model L1 18 which I have had for over 40 years and still play every day. Can anybody give me any information about the model or approximate value, purely for my own satisfaction as I would never sell it. Thanks Gordon.

    1. Re: Levin guitars
      Magnus H

      Gordon, Your guitar should be either LS-18 or LT-18.
      LS-18 (1957 – 1964) had normal round dot markers in the fretboard, and 3-in-line open tuners. LT-18 (1965 – 1968) had square shaped block inlays in the upper side (low E) of the fretboard. Both guitars were what was called Goliath size (approximately same as Dreadnought). The top was Alpine spruce, sides and bottom flamed maple, neck of mahogany and ebony fretboard. The LS-18 was called "the Levin Super Goliath".

      Approximate winning auction price on ebay lately 600 – 900$

      Best regards…/Magnus

        1. Re: Levin guitars
          Magnus H

          Kevin,

          Serial number 140206 would make it year 1943, which is at least 15 years before the LS-18 was introduced. If it was bought in the late 50:s the serial number should be in the 350000-400000 range. I think (from studying several Levin instrument catalogs) that the model was introduced first as a guitar targeting the north american market, labeled Goya S-18, and I have never seen any before 1957.

          Does Your guitar have the serial number stamped in the wood at the top of the neck?

          Best regards…/Magnus

        2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... kevin fletcher
          kevin fletcher

          : I have a Levin LS 18,serial no.140206, which i bought from a lady of nearly 100 about 12 years ago and she remembered buying it in the 1950’s. It is all original, the top has aged beautifully and the tone is fabulous. I find that i can’t be as sloppy on it as on my more modern guitars,it does need to be played more precisely. My understanding is that they are quite collectable now.

          Gordon, Your guitar should be either LS-18 or LT-18.
          : LS-18 (1957 – 1964) had normal round dot markers in the fretboard, and 3-in-line open tuners. LT-18 (1965 – 1968) had square shaped block inlays in the upper side (low E) of the fretboard. Both guitars were what was called Goliath size (approximately same as Dreadnought). The top was Alpine spruce, sides and bottom flamed maple, neck of mahogany and ebony fretboard. The LS-18 was called "the Levin Super Goliath".

          : Approximate winning auction price on ebay lately 600 – 900$

          : Best regards…/Magnus

          1. Levin LS-18
            Pete

            Hi Magnus, I have a “Levin LS-18. The serial number is 189718 and the number stamped on the head is 442439 On the label inside it says AB HERMAN CARLSON LEVIN. Goteburg. Could you please give me any info about it, ie date of manufacture. Many Thankslw 8t y

    1. Re: Levin LG-17 #455341
      Magnus H

      John,

      Why do anything if it is in good condition?
      If it plays and sounds nice, why start messing with it?
      My experience is that instruments ages with style…

      Your guitar is made in 1965. At 42, You are allowed to show some age, don´t You think?

      /Magnus

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... John C
      John C

      I have had this guitar for 40 years or so. Can someone tell me when it was made, if it is worth anything and how to restore it? It is basically in very good condition – had a matt finish from new and I would like to know what is the best way to preserve it and if it is worth doing? Thanks. John

    1. Re: GRECO 12 string
      Jacob

      Im pretty sure you have the same guitar i have (actually have to of them). I can’t find squat as far as info on them, have you had any luck?

      1. Re: GRECO 12 string
        Denise

        : Im pretty sure you have the same guitar i have (actually have to of them). I can’t find squat as far as info on them, have you had any luck?

        I am having problems finding out any info on a greco 12 string guitar made in the early 1960’s anyone know anything about that

    2. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... kevin welsh
      kevin welsh

      I’ve had this guitar since the mid-80’s and wondering if anyone knows anything about them besides that they were built in Japan. It doesn’t have any seriel numbers on the stock so I don’t know what year. It’s a beautiful looking guitar in excellent shape.

  18. goya classical guitar
    s.west.

    40 yr, old handbuilt goya spanish lable model no. 4 sycamore frnt blonde mahogany sides split rosewood back. incredible tone. what should i insure it for please.

  19. Levin archtop swing guitar - please help with origin
    Marc Borms, Belgium

    I bought a Levin guitar, bought in 1952 and stayed with the same owner, until today. No more info, also the inside labels are removed ( in 1952, by the Brussels import shop ) and sold as US Swing Master guitar.
    The guitar has a number 6202.
    Photos available at http://www.embase.be/levin
    Can somebody give more info about model or history of this guitar ?
    Thx.

    1. Re: Levin archtop swing guitar - please help with origin
      Magnus H

      Marc,

      I hate to disappoint You, but I seriousely doubt that this Guitar has anything in common with Levin, than being (possibly) made in Sweden. When this guitar was on sale recently on ebay, it was discussed in a swedish forum for antique instruments.

      A guy in northern Sweden turned up with a photo of two guitars which looked identical, in his posession. I think one of them was branded "Bella".
      I add a link to the thread in the swedish forum (which is in swedish Im afraid´). You can contact Lasse S by klicking on his nick in the left margin.

      /Magnus

      http://www.antikviteter.net/antikprat/messages/183/188151.html?1181763647

    1. Re: Levin Jumbo LS 18. made in Sweden no.450618
      Magnus H

      Norman,

      According to the serial number lists your guitar is made in 1965. The lists are available at
      http://www.gitarren.se/radotips/sernr_levin.html

      Does it say model LS-18 on the label?
      I think this model was sold in UK as model 1855 "The Super Goliath". At least I have a broshure from a brittish dealer from early sixties.
      But LS-18 makes sense since the corresponding Goya was labeled S-18. My experience from ebay is 500 – 900$ in US, probably more in UK. These guitars have extremely good reputation.

      /Magnus

  20. Levin LG 17 serial # 439836
    Chris Holmes

    I’ve owned this guitar for over 25 years and want to have the cracks in the sound board repaired. Can any-one tell me what timbers were used. Any other information about this great instrument would also be apreciated. Thanks Chris

  21. Levin 254595
    Arjan

    I’ve inherited a Levin ser. nr. 254595 from my grandfather. Can anyone tell me more about it?
    The GOLDEN label inside says
    1 ars GARANTI
    Skulle nagot material eller fabrikationsfel
    uppsta inom 1 ar. reparera vi detta gratis
    om instrumentet sandes franco var fabrik
    A.B. HERMAN CARLSON LEVIN
    GOTEBORG

    1. Re: Levin 254595
      Magnus H

      Adrian,

      I means

      One year Warranty
      Should any material or fabrication flaws
      show within one year from purchase, we will
      repair it for free if the instrument is shipped
      to our factory.

      The serial number says manufaruring year 1951, so I am afraid it is a little late now.

      The one Year warranty models we the less expensive, so You shouldn´t expect to high value. But still, It is a handmade solid wood very vintage guitar and many of these guitars are surpricingly nice to play.

      In the gallery of sold instruments at http://www.vintage-guitars.se/gallery.htm You may find your guitar among the Levins.

      Good luck…./Magnus

    1. Re: Levin Classical
      Magnus H

      Jim,

      Levins serial # interval for 1967 is 474503 – 486142, so You must have bougt it fresh from production.

      Model 112 was one of the top models in Levins classic line of the 50:s and 60:s. It had top of aged alp spruce, back and sides of mahogany, ebony fretboard and a nice soundhole ornament. I think You can compare it with the Goya G-30 if You check recent auction prices on ebay. I would say from 200-600@ if put on auction in the US. I put the low range to 200 as Levin is not that known on that side of the atlantic, I would recommend to mention the relation to Goya in the item description.

      The sales price would possibly be higher if sold in Europe.

      Good luck…/Magnus

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

      I have a Levin classical guitar, model 112, serial # 477200. Purchased circa 1967 in Europe. I would like to sell it. It has had little use and is in excellent condition. Any advice? Can you suggest a price? Thanks — Jim

  22. Hello,
    I have an old ‘Levin’ guitar. Its half size (18 fret) Nylon string. the sticker on the inside says ‘1ars GARANTI’ made in sweden.
    Can anyone shed some light on this? I think this would be about 1960.
    Cheers,
    BEN

    1. Re: Levin guitar
      Magnus H

      Ben,

      Normally You find a serial number printed on top of the neck headpiece. This number will lead You to the exact manufacturing year.(http://www.gitarren.se/radotips/sernr_levin.html).

      Sometime they added a model number so You can find the exact model from catalogs. If You post the seriel number and model I can try to help You further.

      The fact that the labe say "1 års GARANI" (One Year warranty) tells me that it is one of the simpler models, which does not mean that it is bad. Some of these guitars can be very pleasant to play.

      The more expensive guitars were 5 or even 10 year warranty.

      Regards…/Magnus

      1. Re: Levin guitar
        Ben

        Hi Magnus,

        Thanks for your help. The serial number is 295699 27
        The link you posted shows it was made in 1953. The fact that it is smaller than full size tells me its not a top of the range model.. is this a fair assumption? Thanks for your help on the warranty translation!

        Cheers, BEN

        : Ben,

        : Normally You find a serial number printed on top of the neck headpiece. This number will lead You to the exact manufacturing year.(http://www.gitarren.se/radotips/sernr_levin.html).

        : Sometime they added a model number so You can find the exact model from catalogs. If You post the seriel number and model I can try to help You further.

        : The fact that the labe say "1 års GARANI" (One Year warranty) tells me that it is one of the simpler models, which does not mean that it is bad. Some of these guitars can be very pleasant to play.

        : The more expensive guitars were 5 or even 10 year warranty.

        : Regards…/Magnus

        1. Re: Levin guitar
          Magnus H

          Ben,

          Model 27 was also called "Texas", and I qouote (and translate) the 1950 Levin product catalog:

          Bottom and sides ii beautiful birch. Top od resonance spruce. Fretboard of walnut. White inlays around top, bottom and soundhole. The whole instrument polished to high finish, in dark redbrown colour with gold-yellow shading in top and neck (I guess this is what is normally called sunburst). Bridge of rosewood in spannish style (classical string through). Nickel plated tuners. 1 year warranty.
          Length 965 mm
          body lengh 465 mm
          body width 355 mm
          scale length 630 mm

          I see on the picture that it has 12 frets to the body.

          Good luck with it.

          /Magnus

  23. Levin A12R 12-string
    WildTurkey

    Hi, a friend has recently bought a Levin A12R 12-string acoustic and has asked me if i could find out any information on it and how much it could be worth?

    I believe it was made sometime in the 60’s but not 100% sure. The guitars in good condition

        1. Re: Levin A12R 12-string
          Magnus H

          Can You describe it a little in detail. Does it have a cutaway on the treble side?
          The label in the soundhole, does it say where it is manufactured? (Sweden, Finland, Japan?)
          Any serial number?
          Does it say "Sound of Wood, "The Special sound" or CF Martin Organisation?

          /Magnus

      1. Re: Levin A12R 12-string
        Magnus H

        I have never heard of this model, but Levin normally placed a serial number, either on top of the headpeice or on the label in the soundhole. This would be a lead to the manufaturing year. Does the label say "The Special Sound" or "Sound of Wood"? This would indicate early to late 70:s.

        The later 12 stringed Levins used to be cutaway.

        Can You describe it closer?

        /Magnus

    1. Re: Levin 335
      alvari lume

      : I have a Levin model 335 that I know to be at least 45 years old. The serial number is unknown. I would like to know if it is collectable and if so, approximate value. It is in good condition and plays well. It is an arch top, "S" holes and a right hand cutout.

      I have a similiar situation…
      levin 335.. in a good condition. beatifull instrument with a very warm and beautifull sound, but it’s hard to get any information.. most likely it’s from late 60’s
      if you get any information, please send me a message at
      [email protected]
      you can see the guitar in video at
      http://www.myspace.com/alvarilume
      all the best
      a.l.

    2. Re: Levin 335
      Magnus H

      Ron,

      Model 335 was the lowest model in Levins 300-series, which were introduced 1955 or -56. There were 5 levels with model 315 as top of the range.

      They were available as acoustic or with one or two microphones factory fitted.

      There were also 3 smallbodied archtops added to the series in the sixties, with florentine cutaway, more intended for rockers.

      The 300 series is considered some of the best guitars Levin ever made. Bare in mind the 335 is the simplest, though.

      In Sweden a 335 sells for 220 to 440 GBP, in UK probably a lot more.

      Regards…Magnus

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ron
      Ron

      I have a Levin model 335 that I know to be at least 45 years old. The serial number is unknown. I would like to know if it is collectable and if so, approximate value. It is in good condition and plays well. It is an arch top, "S" holes and a right hand cutout.

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