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I'm trying to get an accurate estimate of the value of my Mann semi hollowbody archtop acoustic electric Howard Roberts replica pre-lawsuit era guitar.
If anyone could help I would be so grateful, thx
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02-25-2026 11:43 PM
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It's impossible to even begin guessing without a bunch of well-lit pics detailing the precise condition of the instrument. For example:
Originally Posted by Litnin77
> Full front and back showing the entire instrument from stem to stern
> Front, back and two sides showing the entire body (not the neck or peghead)
> Pic of the first 4-6 frets with the strings pulled to the side, showing whether and how much the frets and fingerboard have divots
> Pic of the back of the headstock and beginning of the neck, which probably shows the serial number, probably shows whether the tuners are original and clearly show whether there has been any repairs
> Pic of the back of the neck
> Closeups of any damaged areas, preferably with a coin or guitar pick as a reference to the size of each damaged area
> Straight-sideways at the 12th fret showing the string height
> Clear picture of the bridge showing whether it is cranked up, cranked down or still has room for adjustment
> 3-4 pics showing the front, back and interior of the case
After that, please describe whether the pickup(s) work and whether all the knobs work right (i.e. function and don't make crunchy sounds when turned)
Beyond that it's always nice to hear what you think about the guitar, how long you've had it etc.
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I don't mean to be rude (although sadly that comes naturally to me). But without that, it's like me calling the auto dealer and asking, "What will you give me for my blue Nissan Rogue?" The answer will surely be, "$500 - 50,000 depending on a lot of things."
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I'm about to put a Mann HR copy up for sale next for $1,200. You could always do the same and ask for $1,100! These are fabulous guitars. The listing will largely conform to Sam's suggestions. Here are some sample pix, with plenty more to come once I get home. Note that mine has an Allparts replacement pickguard, and a tailpiece like the original Gibson HR model. Mine also has the original case, in excellent working condition.
Here's a comparable:
https://guitarsnjazz.com/product/vintage-howard-roberts-16hollowbody-archtop-guitar-made-in-japan-w-case-copy/Last edited by Hammertone; 02-26-2026 at 04:38 PM.
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Is it possible to date these guitars accurately? (being that they lack serial numbers). Originally Posted by Hammertone
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Easiest method is feature-dating. 1976 is a generally a good guess. Originally Posted by Mick-7
These guitars were made in Japan by FujiGen Gakki and came with different brand names on the headstock depending on where in the world the guitar was imported and sold. Great West Imports in Canada imported these guitars using the Mann brand, and they are typically identical to the 1974 Ibanez 2453 with the exception of the name on the headstock.
More here:
Japanese MANN Howard Roberts guitar (Ibanez 2453 ?)
Last edited by Hammertone; 03-08-2026 at 05:28 PM.
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Mine has Ibanez numbering system, June ‘76 build. Originally Posted by Mick-7
Last edited by Aiq; 02-27-2026 at 06:07 PM.
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But is it an Ibanez or an off-brand label copy such as Mann? Originally Posted by Aiq
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Branded ‘Speedfire’. All of the legit lawsuit models were built in the same factory, the same that built Ibanez. Originally Posted by Mick-7
This thread has info about branding, etc.
Japanese MANN Howard Roberts guitar (Ibanez 2453 ?)
Besides the Ibanez serial number system mine had the Ibanez Gold Star tuners but I replaced all the metal due to the pick guard gas off. I bought it from the original owner who kept it in case resulting in the damage.
I still have all the original parts in a box, original case and the first owners store receipt.
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Same guitar, same factory, different inlay at the top of the headstock overlay. Is that what you mean by "off-brand label copy?" They are all off-brand label copies of the Gibson Howard Roberts. Originally Posted by Mick-7
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How do they compare to the Gibson ? I've always been curious about these, but never had the chance to try one.
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Same as the Gibson. Originally Posted by Jx30510
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Yes, but I didn't know they put serial numbers on some of them. I have a 1970's Japanese "Cortez" ES-175 copy, with no serial number on it. Originally Posted by Hammertone
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Info on Ibanez serial numbers.
Just a moment...
Most of the ‘lawsuit’ builds were roughly 75-80.
1975–1988; Letter (A–L) + 6 digits
Seven characters M YY #### single letter (A–L) 2-digit number 4-digit number Example: B840230 (February 1984)
- M = letter indicating month of manufacture: A=January...L=December
- YY = last two digits of year (e.g. 85=1985)
- #### = consecutive production number for the month
Mine is F76****, June 1976 build.
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I know these aren't the best pics I am sorry, it's the best I could do, everything works and has amazing sound imo, plays very impressive ,has some scratches and wear but it's in good shape from what I can tell..thx everyone for the help, I truly appreciate it
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I believe the Ibanez 2453 was introduced in 1975, and stayed in production until 1977. I have a 1977 Ibanez 2453, great guitar! Originally Posted by Hammertone
Just a moment...
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