Below are examples of each of the serial number prefixes and how the typography of each changed over the years.
Series: MIJ T+6Years: 1994-1995
Series: MIJ U+6Years: 1995-1996
Series: MIJ V+6Years: 1996-1997
Series: CIJ V+6Years: 1997
Note: This series changes “MADE IN JAPAN” to “Crafted in Japan”. This is the serial number series we refer to as “transitional” that does not appear in most date tables. See note in preceding section.
Series: CIJ A+6Years: 1997-1998
Note: This series of serial numbers has a leading “s/n” instead of “serial number” text.
Series: CIJ O+6Years: 1997-2000
Note: The “Crafted in Japan” typography changes in this series. Also note the change back to using full “serial number” text from “s/n”. (This is the best quality photo of this series we have currently. If you have a better one please get in touch.)
Series: CIJ P+6Years: 1999-2002
Note: This series continues the cursive style “Crafted in Japan” typography.
Series: CIJ Q+6Years: 2002-2004
Note: Notice the change in “Crafted in Japan” typography again in this series from the previous.
Series: CIJ R+6Years: 2004-2005
Note: No change from previous series.