Korg M1 Serial Number — Premium & Latest
These are the first 20,000 units shipped from the Korg factory in Japan. If you see the "M1-" prefix, you have a very early unit.
An authentic factory M1EX or M1REX with the correct stamped serial number is significantly more valuable than a standard M1R that has been user-upgraded, even if the functionality is similar.
If you are looking for the serial number for the (Legacy Collection), this is not found on the hardware, but rather, as a Korg Forums post explains , on the black piece of paper included in the plastic bag with the manual. Korg M1 Serial Number
By late 1989, Korg dropped the "M1-" prefix and moved to a purely numeric 6-digit code preceded by a 2-digit factory code (usually "17" for Japan, "22" for the Italian factory for European distribution).
Look for the identification label in these specific locations: These are the first 20,000 units shipped from
Before you buy any used Korg M1, always ask the seller for a clear photo of the rear serial number. If they refuse, walk away. If they provide it, cross-reference it with the table above. And if you find an 80,000 series unit with a clean keybed and a working battery? Buy it immediately. You aren’t just buying a synth; you are buying a piece of music history.
For high-value purchases, especially of rare early units, ask for any documentation that includes the serial number, such as the original invoice, warranty card, or service records. If you are looking for the serial number
Before we decode, we must find. The Korg M1 has three potential locations for its serial number, depending on the production year. Collectors call these "Gen 1," "Gen 2," and "REV B" locations.