Expert: D. Hughes - 11/7/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am glad to have found this site. I have a DY 60 that I think was made in 1989, as that is the only info I can get. And that is from the store where I bought it, he doesn't have any paperwork and is going from memory, and I can't find any of my original info/paperwork. So the particulars are: Model DY 60, sn 48931, heelblock # D702 410. Looks like a spruce top with quilted maple (2 piece) back and sides, rosewood fingerboard, Gold  tuners, nice abalone inlay around the soundhole, not dots on the finger board, just fret markers on the top side of it and a dark scripted inlay at the 12th fret. The tag inside also has a stamped signature that I can't make out, but looks like RNJ something in a handwritten script.

ANSWER: Hello GC,

There were two different DY60 models, one was an Anniversary model circa 1982. The year SHOULD be on the lower right side of the label?  

Your heelblock number can't be correct, as they do not contain letters.  I'm guessing here that it is probably 5702 410?  That would make it a 1982, which would fit in with the Anniversary model.  However, your description doesn't quite match up. So, I'm going to try and add a photo of the label and rosette of a DY60 Anniversary model. Then, you can tell me yes or no if it is the same as yours and I can then give you more info on the model.

There should also be a metal tag on the back of the headstock, although some made before or after 1982 may not have this.

Regards,
D.Hughes

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The heel block number was incorrect, it's 0702 410. No metal plate on the headstock.

Hereis a picture of the guitar.


Answer
Okay, this is not the Anniversary model from 1982.  The updated heelblock number shows it is a 1995 model, which oddly enough is another Anniversary model, the Maple Anniversary model was dreadnought size, with solid spruce top, 2pc curly maple back and sides (laminates). Natoh Neck, Rosewood fingerboard with flower inlay 12th fret, Ebony bridge. Optional electronics. 1995 MSRP $1,100.  Signature on label is K.Yairi (stamped).

These, and almost all Anniversary, Commemorative or Limited Edition models are not in the Acoustic Bluebook, so value is difficult although I have seen quite a few up on EBay, in excellent condition they usually go for around $450-$550.

Regards,
D.Hughes