Tokai Goldstar Sound - Neck Stamp

[rc100]

I have a 1984 Goldstar Sound (50's model with a maple neck). At the heel of the neck beyond the 21st fret there is a letter 'M' stamped in to the face of the neck.

Anyone seen this before and any idea what it might be for ??

Thanks

 

[iainblack]

Hi, a photo would be useful but all I can think is a really redundant M for Maple. I wonder if there is an R for Rosewood out there? The early Springys had the modle number stamped at the final fret, 100, 80 etc

 

[jacco]

Pics please!
I've only seen a 'V' on a 1981 ST-85 and a 'D' on a 1984 LS model (if I'm correct). I thought they were demo models and were indication neck shape..

 

[Cali Girl]

Yes, a picture would help. Paging wishbonz, he is keeping an eye on these unusual letter stamps, I believe.

 

[wishbonz]

No one seems to know for sure - I've emailed Tokai JP and a noted expert in Japan - got no reply from either.
I don't buy the neck profile idea - doesn't make sense to me, and especially as we now have an 'M' it seems.
I have an '81 LS100 with a 'D', I thought it may be a show/exhibition model (demonstrator) as i only know of 2 others.
Now we have a 'V' and 'M' - OK here's another theory - direct factory ordered models by either a dealer or valued collector/customer who warranted having a stamp denoting their name - I'm thinking of the 'Leo' ordered Gibson Les Pauls with 'L' serial numbers, back in the early 80s I think, well you get the idea?
Until someone can come up with a true explanation, we'll have to keep speculating . . .

 

[jacco]

No one seems to know for sure - I've emailed Tokai JP and a noted expert in Japan - got no reply from either.

Have you tried asking Sat/Koiz?

PS I don't buy the custom order letter for then it would be Japanese sign, wouldn't it?

 

[wishbonz]

Jacco, I just asked Sat, he says 'D' denoted one that was factory ordered through a Tokai 'Dealer'. Forgot to ask on the V and M on my first mail, have just sent him another with that question - awaiting reply.

If he's correct, I wasn't too far off with my last theory - (i didn't mention any ideas I held in my email to him btw).