Here’s a collection of serial numbers of Mosrite’s last U.S.A. years. Semie Moseley was working with a small team, making something like one guitar per day – there are series of guitars but also a lot of one-offs, proto-types, custom mades … There are serial numbers that make sense in a line and serial numbers that won’t match in any row … And there are the so called „parts-rites“, Mosrites that are made from parts (signed and unsigned, finished and roughly shaped) that were sold after Semie’s death, for example to Canada (often stamped C93).
– The Ventures model reissue – 1976-85
– The Ventures model reissue – 1986-87
– The Ventures model reissue – 1988-95
– American model aka Mark VII and Mark VIII 1984
– Gospel Encounters 1982-84
– Terry model 1985-86
– Tone Chamber 1987
– The Ventures model reissue – 25th Anniversary 1987-88
– M88, M89 1988-89
– V88, V89 1988-89
– The Nokie model 1988-91
– Semie Moseley model 1986-92
– Double Axe 1984-90
– Ramones 1989-2001 (?)
– Gospel Victory 1990
– The Joe Maphis Single Neck Model 1991
– The Nokie 30th Anniversary 1992
– The Ventures model reissue – 40th Anniversary 1992
– Built in Soul model 1992-93
– Equalizer model 1993
– The Golden Commemorative model 1993
– Yuzo Kayama model 1993
– Doublenecks
– Customs, One-Offs, Prototypes
Please note: All information here is the autor’s belief. The estimated numbers of made exemplars are a rough guess from the saved serial numbers. All information is without engagement, no responsibility is taken for the correctness of this information.
If you have any more informations about serial number and model and year or have pictures of your Mosrite that you’d allow me to publish here, please tell me at max@hang10.de
News:
Jan 23, 2021: R029 (1985 Anniversary ’65 Ventures model) and MOT-1 (custom made for Mötley Crüe) added
Feb 13, 2021: 300x, 3037 (Golden Commemorative) and JM06 (Jow Maphis Doubleneck) added
Mar 04, 2021: T003 (?, Terry model) added
Mar 23, 2021: ME002 (Equalizer model) added
Mar 24, 2021: N91-52 (The Nokie model), NC026 (1984 Ventures 65RI) and USA001 (Built in Soul model) added
Apr 03, 2021: 01587 (Tone Chamber) added
Apr 06, 2021: 63002 (63RI) and SM036 (Built in Soul model) added
Apr 22, 2021: 64001 (64RI) added
May 05, 2021: CC41 (65RI), KK008 (Yuzo Kayama model) and KC021 (Yuzo Kayama model) added
May 06, 2021: G2004 (Joe Maphis Single Neck) added
Jun 08, 2021: SM P4 (Built in Soul model) added
Oct 03, 2021: Links for 63·03 and 87043 added
1976-1985
| s/n | year | model | color | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 77 | 1976 | 65RI | white or Pearl White | Moseley, bolt neck, no body binding, top jack, trussrod screw at headstock, M-knobs, 1976 headstock logo, eBay October 2016: Mosrite USA The Ventures Model Used w / Hard case, BIN 3418 USD. Not sure about the serial number. |
| 78 | 1976 | 65RI | black | Moseley, bolt neck, no body binding, top jack, trussrod screw at headstock, M-knobs, 3.62kg, 1976 headstock logo, eBay May 2016: Mosrite 76～78’VENTURES MODEL Black Electric Guitar Free Shipping from JAPAN, BIN 3162 USD. |
| 838 | 1976 | 63RI | Pearl White | Vibramute, set neck, body binding, top jack, spun knobs, 1976 headstock logo, pictures here in dorkrockrecord’s photobucket: Mosrite Mark I 1976 |
| 10 | 1976 | „Bicentennial Reissue“ | Pearl White | Moseley, top jack, set neck, body binding, trussrod screw at headstock, M-knobs; some pix and info here at surfguitar101: Mosrite Ventures Mark I Bicentennial Reissue |
| 175B | 1978 | 65RI with body binding | Sunburst | Moseley, top jack, M-knobs, pots 1978, pix here at facebook: 1978 Mosrite Ventures |
| no s/n | 1978 | 65RI | Pearl White | Vibramute, top jack, M-knobs, pots: 1377812 (March ’78) |
| 93 | 1978 | 65RI | Pearl White | Moseley, top jack, M-knobs. eBay June 2016: 1978 Vintage Mosrite MARK-I 1965 Electric Guitar 6 String 1970s w/OHSC, BIN 3289 USD. |
| TO RD ·SM3· | 1978 (?) | 65RI | Sunburst | Moseley, top jack, neck binding, trussrod screw at body end, M-knobs. Thanks to H.N. for his contribution. |
| ×15× | 1979 | 63RI | Sunburst | Moseley, top jack, set neck, body binding, trussrod screw at headstock, M-knobs. The „ד in the serial number are very small, probably made with a small Phillips screwdriver ;) |
| ??? | 1979 | 63RI | Sunburst | Vibramute |
| 003x | 1979 | 65RI | Sunburst | for sale March 2016, ad here: Mosrite 1979年製 USAモズライト社製造品 KY-UP製ピックアップ付き（リア）ビブラミュートモデル, price: ￥268,000 |
| X165X | 1979 (?) | 63RI | black/black | Moseley, top jack, M-knobs, triple body binding, trossrod adjustment at headstock; eBay December 2016: MOSRITE THE VENTURES Used w/ Hard case, BIN 3193 USD (3009 EUR then) from Japan (free shipping). X165X is the serial number. |
| CC13 | 1979 | 65RI | Sunburst | thanks to АЯ for showing. |
| CC41 | 1979 | 65RI | Sunburst | Yahoo May 2021: ★☆美品 MOSRITE Made in U.S.A 65年モデル Ventures モズライト ベンチャーズ USA☆★ |
| CC44 | 1979 | 65RI | Olympia White (ref.) | hardware changed to Moseley hardtail (custom made by Expat Guitars, Tokyo), picture here at the mosriteforum: Mosrites at Expat Guitars!!! |
| CC66 | 1979 | 65RI | Sunburst | Vibramute, some info and a link to some pictures here at the mosriteforum |
| AF007 | 1984 | 65RI | sunburst | black AF-Moseley, mint condition, eBay January 2015: MOSERITE VENTURES MODEL,6STRING,AMERICAN,MOSERITE,RIGHT-HANDED starting at 13,000 USD, BIN 16,900 USD. |
| AF00x (?) | 1984 | 65RI | custom painting | black AF-Moseley |
| AF01x (?) | 1984 | 65RI | Sunburst | black AF-Moseley, owned by Marshall Crenshaw, found here: dater une guitare ancienne MOSRITE |
| AF034 | 1984 | ? | ? | found here: dater une guitare ancienne MOSRITE |
| AF1414 | 1984 | 65RI | California Grape | black Moseley, info and pictures here and here at facebook. |
| NC018 | 1984 | 65RI | Sunburst | Moseley |
| NC026 | 1984 | 65RI | sparkle gold | Moseley, owned by Semie himself, for sale at Gbase March 2021: ~1982 Mosrite Semi’s own Ventures gold sparkle, price 12000 USD. |
| NC050 | 1984 | 65RI | sparkle white | Moseley |
| NC150 | 1984 | 65RI | Sunburst | Moseley, unbound rosewood fretboard with brass markers, late bridge, strange headstock logo (without The Ventures), humbuckers, wooden sunburst neckplate, headstock’s back signed by Semie Moseley in 1984; Reverb April 2018: Mosrite Ventures re issue 1984 3 color burst, price 2900 USD. I have no idea what it is; I’d say it’s a partsrite, but that may be only me ;) |
| B068 | 1984 | 65RI Bass | black | Ventures logo, duckfoot tuner, bass humbuckers – I guess it was made 1984 as there’s a very similar bass at 1984 NAMM pictures |
| R029 | 1985 | „anniversary ’65 model“ | black, Sunburst neck’s back | eBay January 2021: The Ventures ’65 Mosrite of California Black Electric Guitar 1985 USA Made+Case, BIN 4219 USD |
| R030 | 1985 | „anniversary ’65 model“ | black, Sunburst neck’s back | plate on case says „anniversary ’65 model made by S. Moseley October 1985“; yahoo April 2018: ★Mosrite モズライト 85年製 アニバーサリー ’65モデル ベンチャーズモデル ハードケース付 11-171, 3.8kg, 600,000円 |
| ? | 1985 | 63RI | Sunburst | Custom order made by Semie Moseley (according to ad), bound body and headstock, for sale December 2016: USA MosriteモズライトSemie Moseley所有、モズレー自身のギター, price Yen 780.000 (EUR 6357/6748 USD then). |
1986-1987 – Jonas Ridge, NC
The following guitars are all 1965 Reissues made in Jonas Ridge, NC, in 1986 and 1987. They have been sold on ebay in 2001; here’s the original text of those auctions:
„I have been hired by the widow of Semie Mosley’s most significant partner/owner to sell the last 37 Mosrite guitars from the North Carolina Mosrite manufacturing facility. These guitars have been warehoused since they were made in 1986 and 1987. They are all unsold, as-new, not „pre-owned“. They are mostly in dead-mint condition, except for a few that have extremely minor dings or marks from having been stored for 13 years. All guitars are hand made by Semie Mosley and are signed by Semie Mosley on the backs of the pegheads. They all still have the original strings that were put on by Semie at the shop. Since all are hand-made, no two are exactly alike. There are the slightest variations in features such as binding, position dots, peghead shape, etc. They are all made of alder, with maple necks. Each guitar weighs about 8 or 9 pounds. Most of these guitars have a beautiful Sunburst finish, about the best I’ve seen by any maker (including the early Mosrites). Others have rare custom colors, such as white, black, or candy-apple red. Some also have shaded or colored necks. Sixteen of these guitars come with very expensive flight cases that were specially ordered for these uniquely shaped guitars when they were made. I have been told that these cases cost about $250 wholesale when ordered. These cases are covered with the same durable gray carpet-like material that is used on heavy-duty road cases for PA equipment. The cases are heavy, weighing twice as much as the guitars at about 16 to 18 pounds.
These guitars will be sold one at a time, exclusively through ebay.
Included with each guitar will be a signed letter of authenticity from the widow of Semie’s North Carolina partner, stating the serial number, and that it is an original Mosrite guitar, hand-made by Semie Mosley that has been in storage in Morganton, North Carolina since it was made at Semie’s shop in North Carolina. All guitars were made or at least completed at Jonas Ridge, N.C. Also included (by special request) will be photocopies of some important factory papers from the time the shop folded, including invoices, financial figures, letters, etc. Please e-mail me for details on these papers. The original documents may be sold separately on ebay in the future.“
A letter from Semie Moseley to Mosrite’s customers, December 1, 1986:
„Thank you all for your interest in Mosrite. I am going to try to explain, in this letter, what has been happening with Semie Moseley and Mosrite.
First, let me apologize for this being a form letter. I have over one thousand letters which have accumulated during my illness and shutdown. Some day, in the near future, the Semie Moseley and Mosrite Guitar story will be in process. it will read like a fairytale – a drama – a love story; from rags to riches – to rags – to the fight back, from one major tragedy to another, from the very beginning through its evolution to the 1980’s.
My wife, Loretta, and I were in an automobile accident which should have taken our lives. A few months in the hospital and more than a year being disabled left us financially depleted and nothing to brag about physically. I went through another major surgery. Our entire factory was destroyed by fire causing a total loss of guitars, inventory, equipment, and much more. It was well over a million dollar loss. The story doesn’t end there, now you have a general idea of where we’ve been and why. It has been only through strength from God that we have survived all of this. I still am determined that we will win.
For a while, during the time I was sick, I tried to get help in order to continue building my Mosrite Guitars. But I was not too happy with the quality and the way things were going without my direct attention, so I shut Mosrite down one more time. About eleven months ago, after the last shutdown, I required radical colon surgery. I am now fully recovered and weight two hundred pounds. Our factory is back in Jonas Ridge, North Carolina.
Once again, I am going to build Mosrite Guitars in limited quantity. I will re-introduce the Ventures Model. I will also build a new model which will have the option of my newly designed dual coil Mosrite pickups. I will also offer, once again, the Joe Maphis double neck and single neck. I will be directly involved in this production, and will guarantee my guitars for my lifetime.
If you have not given up on me, please write and let me know of your interest. I will respond to your request immediately.
Mosrite Forever,
Semie Moseley, President
P.S. I don’t plan on making any National Promotion until after my guitars are offered to you and my other Mosrite friends. Hope to hear from you soon.“
| s/n | year | model | color | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00186 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst Neck – thanks to RL for showing me! |
| 00286 | 1986 | 65RI | black | Sunburst Neck |
| 00486 | 1986 | 65RI | Candy Apple Red | Candy Apple Red Neck |
| 00586 | 1986 | 65RI | black | Black Sunburst Neck |
| 00686 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 00786 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst Neck |
| 00886 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst Neck |
| 00986 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst Neck |
| 01086 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst Neck |
| 8621 | 1986 | 65RI | black | – |
| 8622 | 1986 | 65RI | black | – |
| 8623 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8624 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8625 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8626 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8627 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8628 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8629 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8630 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8631 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8632 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8633 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8634 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8635 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 8636 | 1986 | 65RI | white | – |
| 8637 | 1986 | 65RI | white | – |
| 8638 | 1986 | 65RI | white | – |
| 8639 | 1986 | 65RI | white | – |
| 8640 | 1986 | 65RI | white | – |
| 8647 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst neck; not from that 2001 eBay batch: eBay April 2015: Early 1980’s Mark V Venture model Mosrite |
| 8649 | 1986 | 65RI | Sunburst | Sunburst neck; not from that 2001 eBay batch: gbase December 2015: 1986 Mosrite Ventures. Not completely sure about the serial number as it’s hard to read on the pictures and the description only says „It was the 49th guitar that he built that year and signed by him on the back of the headstock in 1987.“ Price: 3500 USD |
| 05186 A | 1987 | 65RI | white | Natural neck, signed by Semie 1987 on the back of the headstock (so it seems to be a very late 1986). Thanks to MW (different from the 87008 MW) for his contribution and the pictures. |
| 87008 | 1987 | 65RI | white | Thanks to MW for his contribution and the pictures. The owner visited Semie Moseley in Jonay Ridge in November 1988 and purchased this guitar and an M1988 prototype, video here: A day with Semie Moseley „Mosrite“. |
| 01187 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01287 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01387 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01487 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01587 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01687 | 1987 | 65RI | black | – |
| 01787 | 1987 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 01887 | 1987 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 01987 | 1987 | 65RI | Sunburst | – |
| 02087 | 1987 | 65RI | Candy Apple Red | – |
1988-1995 – Jonas Ridge, NC and Booneville, AR
| s/n | year | model | color | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 87034 | 1988 | 63RI | Sunburst | 1987, signed (under lacquer) in 1988, at www.frettedamericana.com October 2012, price: 5500 usd, thanks to J.P. |
| 87043 | 1988 | 63RI | Emerald Green | at mosriteforum.com; mosrite owner’s list says it’s made 1991 (wrong). As of June 2021 it’s for sale at Reverb: Mosrite Ventures Sidejack 1988 Emerald Green, price: 5,000USD. An included certificate (signed January 21, 1992) by Semie Moseley tells it was made in May 1988. |
| V0011 | 1989 | 65RI | Sunburst | 1989, Jonas Ridge, bought from Semie Mosley at the 1989 Dallas Guitar Show. Reverb July 2016: Mosrite Ventures Model (RARE) SIGNED & DATED by SEMI MOSLEY, price: USD 4650. eBay July 2016: Details about Mosrite Ventures Model Vintage Guitar- ORIG & Signed by Semi Mosley – New Cond. for BIN 2750 ;) |
| V0111 | 1989 | 65RI | black | 1989, Jonas Ridge, Expat Guitars 2500,- |
| 895011 | 1989 | 65RI bass | Pearl White | 1 piece neck, Schaller tuner |
| V04011 | 1989 or 90 | 65RI | Candy Apple Red | mentioned here |
| V0097 | 1990 | 64RI | Pearl White | picture here at the mosriteforum: Mosrites at Expat Guitars!!! |
| V1054 | 1990 | 64RI | black | December 2015, ad here: モズライト USA 1965年モデル セミーモズレー, auction starting at 500,000 YEN, BIN 1,000,000 YEN (7460 EUR/8120 USD then) |
| B9006 | 1990 | 65RI bass | Pearl White | Similar to the CJ Ramone bass but with two pole-less pickups. Brass bridge, brass Moseley hardtail. eBay January 2016: Mosrite Ventures Bass Electric Bass Guitar w/ Hard Case, BIN 3995 USD. |
| 90-007 | 1990 | 65RI bass | Pearl White | — |
| V911x | 1991 | 65RI | black | Signed by Semie Moseley 1990, ebay Septemer 2016 ad here: pictures here: 1990 Mosrite Authentic Final Ventures model 65Reissue with sign Black guitar USA, starting at USD 7000, from Japan. Last digit hard to read on the pictures. |
| V9135 | 1991 | 65RI | Sunburst | Signed by Semie Moseley 1991, pictures here: Droolworthy: Mosrite Vibramute Ventures Model. |
| V9159 | 1991 | 65RI | Pearl White | Signed by Semie Moseley 1990/91, auctioned here: 美品フルオリジナルモズライト65セミ・モズレーサイン入り. |
| 63002 | 1992 (?) | 63RI | metallic blue incl. neck | not signed, Semie Moseley headstock logo |
| 63·03 | 1992 | 63RI | red | at mosriteforum.com. As of June 2021 it’s for sale at Reverb: Mosrite Ventures Model 1992 Metallic Red Hand built by Semie Mosley, price: 5,000USD. |
| 63007 | 1992 (?) | 63RI | metallic blue | December 2016 ad here: USED Mosrite of California USA 63 Reissue The Ventures Model, price: Yen 297.000 (EUR 2421/USD 2564 then). According to the pot dates it is made 1996. |
| 63008 | 1992 (?) | 63RI | metallic red | Gold hardware, April 2018 ad here: 1992年製造 生誕30周年記念 Mosrite USA Ventures Model モズライト メタリックレッド ベンチャーズ モデル, price: 480,000円 Serial number according to ad. |
| 63139 | 1991 (?) | 63RI | blue | — |
| 63146 | 1991 (?) | 63RI | Candy Apple Red | — |
| 63215 | 1992 (?) | 63RI | metallic red | I have no real idea when these 63RIs have been made. 63215 has a hang tag that says „Booneville, AR“, so it has been made 1992 at the earliest. A sticker on the case says „’92“. eBay April 2018: Mosrite 63 REISSUE M-RED Used Free Shipping, BIN $2.996,00 (EUR 2.420,62 then); and eBay April 2018: Mosrite 63 REISSUE M-RED Electric Guitar Free Shipping Made in USA Red 1992 , BIN $2.911,00 (EUR 2.351,94 then) |
| 64001 | 1993 | 64RI | Sunburst | Qsic-ad April 2021: Mosrite 64 Ventures 3TS 1993年製, price 198,000円. Certificate signed April 6, 1993 |
| 64010 | 1993 (?) | 64RI with body binding | Sunburst | Frettedamericana-ad October 2012: 1983 Mosrite The Ventures (Triple-Bound body Re-Issue), price 3,850US$. The ad’s dating comes from the pot dates R 137 822X and is just wrong ;) „This guitar was purchased from the collection of Loretta Barrier Moseley and is in mint (9.50) condition. Description: „Complete with the original tag reading „11139 5/24/96 / Loretta Barrier Moseley Guitar „The Ventures“ S# 64010 / (1 of 4)…“ |
| RANDY | 1991 | 65RI bass | Pearl White | custom bridge and finger rest; build for Randy Moseley, pix and description here at Reverb.com: Mosrite Ventures Bass. SPECIAL. 1991 Pearl White. Last Guitar built by Semie Moseley. Only One. |
| 1008 S | 1992 | 65RI | Pearl White | Pot-date: 92-23 |
| 1010 S | 1992 | 65RI | Snowflake White | made for Arlington Guitar Show, picture here at the mosriteforum: Mosrites at Expat Guitars!!! As of July 2018 it’s for sale in Japan: USAモズライト V-65 ☆1992年10月のテキサスギターショーに展示された貴重なモズライトです |
| 1016 S | 1992 | 65RI | Ink Blue | — |
| 1019 S | 1992 | 65RI | Pearl White | eBay April 2018: MOSRITE THE VENTURES MODEL 65′ REISSUE rare vintage w/ hard case from JAPAN F/S, BIN 4039 USD |
| 1094 | 1992 | 65RI | Pearl White | yahoo April 2018: 1992年製 Mosrite USA Ventures Model 65年Type モズライト USA ザ ベンチャーズ モデル パールホワイト, 368,000円 |
| V9265 A | 1992 | 65RI | Ink Blue | Signed by Semie Moseley 1992, auctioned here: モズライト９２年／セミーモズレー氏の直筆サイン入り |
| V9285 | 1992 | 65RI | Ink Blue | Signed by Semie Moseley 1992 |
| V92127 S | 1992 | 64RI | black to silver burst | Signed by Nokie Edwards 1993, some pictures here: 1992・Ventures Model ’64 Sample 私、所有 |
| V92100 A | 1992 | 65RI | ? | — |
| V81382 93 | 1993 | 65RI | Sunburst | Vibramute |
| V9304 | 1993 | 63RI | greensburst sparkle (ref.) | Vibramute, some pictures here: 1993・Ventures Model ’65 Refinish |
| V93009 S | 1993 | 65RI | Sunburst | Vibramute, eBay November 2016: Mosrite USA 1965 Reissue sunburst Basswood Body Used Electric Guitar From Japan, BIN 2955 USD |
| V93010 S | 1993 | 65RI | Pearl White | Vibramute, eBay May 2018: 1993 Mosrite 63 VENTURES Model w/HC Free Shipping, BIN 3108 USD |
| V93023 LE01 | 1993 | 65RI | black | Vibramute |
| V9335 | 1993 (?) | 65RI | Candy Apple Red | Vibramute |
| V93039 | 1993 | 65RI | Pearl White | Vibramute, pictures here at facebook: This guitar is the 1993 model of S/N V93 039 |
| V93040 | 1993 | 65RI | Candy Apple Red | Vibramute, eBay May 2020: Mosrite USA The Ventures model 1965 Used, BIN US$4,643.40 from Japan |
| V93081 | 1993 | 65RI | Sunburst | Vibramute |
| V93082 | 1993 | 65RI | Ink Blue | Certificate signed by Jerry Standridge on July 15, 1993 – Made by United Sound Association – Booneville, AR – Owned by Semie’s wife, Loretta Mosley. Mosrites from Booneville, Arkansas |
| V93090 | 1993 | 65RI | Pearl White | Jauce April 2020: USA Moslite 65 year model Reish, seems it was auctioned for 150,000yen (1,264€ then). |
| V93103 | 1993 | 65RI | Sunburst | eBay December 2017: Mosrite ’65 VENTURES MODEL 1993 REI, BIN US $4,180.34. |
| V931xx | 1993 | 65RI | Sunburst | eBay June 2016: Mosrite The ventures model made in 1993 manufacturer Unified Inc., BIN US $4,658.46. |
| V94011 | 1994 | 65RI | Ink Blue | yahoo April 2018: 【返品OK】[良品] mosrite V-65 Ink Blue 1994年製 [ME059] |
| V94012 | 1994 | 65RI | Sunburst | yahoo July 2017: 【最終ロット】 ☆☆ USA・本物・モズライト Mosrite V94 SB サンバースト ☆☆, 360,000円. More pictures here at facebook: This guitar is the 1994 model of S/N V94 012 |
| 0103 | 1992 (?) | 63RI | metallic blue | eBay April 2018, ad here: MOSRITE 62 ’40TH ANNIVERSARY 63RE Used FREE Express Shipping. BIN: 7861 USD (from Japan). |
| 0107 | 1994/95 | 63RI | Sunburst | eBay June 2016, ad here: Free Shipping Used Mosrite ’95 The Ventures Model ’63 Electric Guitar. BIN: 5331 USD (from Japan). |
1984 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: AFxxx and NCxxx
Similar to the Ventures model, but without pickguard. The Mark VIII has the wide carving also on the right (e-string) body side and no carving but a rounding between the horns, the Mark VII has a narrow routing around the whole body’s front. The Mark VIII’s three pickups are mounted parallely sloped or diversified.
| s/n | model | color | tailpiece | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AF005 | Mark VIII | California Grape | Moseley | diversified pickups – prototype for 1984 NAMM. The large pearl dots and pearl side dots are unique only to this prototype (production models share small brass dots), as well as the mini-toggle placement on the treble horn, pictures here in dorkrockrecord’s photobucket: Mosrite American |
| AF006 (?) | Mark VIII/Ventures carving | Purpleburst | black Moseley | diversified pickups – not the typical American-carving, more a Ventures model with three pickups – perhaps a prototype (pickguard), ad and pictures here at reverb.com: Mosrite VIII 1984 Purpleburst. Serial number hard to read on the pictures. Price October 2015: €3,477.44EUR (+ €176.07 shipping). eBay December 2015: 1984 Mosrite VIII Vintage Purpleburst for bin 3995 USD. |
| AF009 | Mark VIII | very dark California Grape | black Moseley | diversified pickups – picture here at Facebook: 1984 Mosrite VIII. |
| AF028 | Mark VII | Sunburst | black Moseley | Thanks to E.L. for showing… |
| AF041 | Mark VIII | Blueburst | Moseley | parallel pickups (humbuckers without polepieces, no logo covers) –pictures here at facebook: AF041. Thanks to Vincent for all the info! |
| AF042 | Mark VIII | Pearl White | Moseley | parallel pickups – eBay February 2016: 1984 Mosrite Handmade & Signed by Semie Moseley Lot 449 starting at 4500 USD (+25%) as part of a live auction event. Sold for 7500 USD. |
| AF049 | Mark VIII | Sunburst | Moseley | diversified pickups; a short video here on facebook: A closer look at an „AF“ (After the Fire) VIII custom-made & signed/dated (1984) by Semie Moseley on back of headstock. |
| AF2424 | Mark VIII | Greenburst | Moseley | diversified pickups, info and pictures here and here at facebook. |
| NC043 | Mark VIII | grey | Moseley | — |
| NC106S | Mark VIII | Sunburst | Moseley | parallel pickups – Reverb 2019: Mosrite V III 1984 Sunburst, price: 3600,– USD. |
| NC112S | Mark VIII | Sunburst | Moseley | diversified pickups |
| NC125S | Mark VIII | Sunburst | Moseley | parallel pickups, Reverb May 2019: Mosrite Ventures 1984 Sunburst, price 3850 USD. |
| NC126S | Mark VIII | Storm Grey | Moseley | diversified pickups |
| NC129S | Mark VIII | black | Moseley | diversified pickups |
| NC130S | Mark VIII | black | Moseley | parallel pickups, Reverb May 2019: Mosrite Mark VIII 1984 Black, price 6499,– EUR from Sweden. |
| NC132 | Mark VIII | Pearl White | Vibramute | diversified pickups |
| NC140 | Mark VIII | black | Moseley | diversified pickups – story here at tymguitars: 1984 Mosrite VIII. |
| NC143S | Mark VIII | Storm Grey | Moseley | diversified pickups – Guitar Auctions March 2014: Mosrite Mk.III electric guitar, made in USA 1984, sold for £1600. Here’s a thread with some info and pictures: NGD!!! American Model V3 and an M-88. |
1982-84 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: GExxx
| model | s/n | color | tailpiece | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gospel Encounters | GE008 | metallic goldburst | wood | G-Base January 2019: 1982 Mosrite Gospel Encounters gold-burst, price: 2995 USD |
| Gospel Encounters | GE050 | metallic goldburst | wood | some pix and info here: 1984 Goldburst Mosrite Gospel Encounters |
1985-86 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: T0xx
I guess it’s been made for the Japanese market as a Terauchi Takeshi signature model. Very rare, less asymmetric than a regular Ventures model, with humbuckers and a rose on the headstock.
| s/n | year | color | tailpiece | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T003 (?) | 1985 | black, neck Sunburst | Vibramute | Singlecoil | hyperguitars March 2021: Mosrite ’85 Terry Model Signed by Semie Moseley, price: ¥248,000/US$2309.40. Serial number not realable on the pictures, so more a guess ;) Signed and dated 1985. |
| T032 | 1986 | Sunburst | Vibramute | humbucker in singlecoil (polepiece) cover | eBay May 2016: Mosrite Terry Model, BIN 7060 USD. |
| T038 | 1986 | Sunburst | Vibramute | humbucker in singlecoil (polepiece) cover | eBay December 2017: Mosrite TERRY model 1986 Used Electric Guitar FREE Shipping, BIN 5,547 USD. S/n from the seller’s description, last digit hard to read, could be a 3 or a 5 either – I’d say the s/n is T035 |
| ? | 1985 | Silverburst | Vibramute | humbucker | |
| ? | 1986 | white | Vibramute | humbucker |
1987 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: 870xx and 0xx87 (regular 1987 Ventures RI numbering)
Partly contured 2″ thick, chambered body, headstock with regular Ventures logo.
| s/n | year | color | tailpiece | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 87004 | 1987 | Aquamarine with bird sticker | wood | white singlecoil with polepieces | frettedamericana October 2012: 1987 Mosrite The Ventures Model, price: US$3850. According to add: „Chambered two-piece alder body, 14 inches wide and 2 inches deep.“ |
| 01587 | 1987 | Pearl White with Whiteburst headstock | Moseley vibrato | black singlecoil with polepieces | The Gear Page thread: What is the model name of this 80’s Mosrite? Serial number is a doublet, there’s a 1987 Ventures RI with the same number. |
1987-88 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: 25xx
allegedly 12 of planned 25 made
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2502 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | silverburst | 2 black polepieces smooth cover | signed 1987, pictures here in dorkrockrecord’s photobucket: Mosrite Ventures 25th Anniversary |
| 2507 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | silverburst | 2 black polepieces smooth cover | mentioned at mosriteforum.com |
| 2511 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | silverburst | 2 black polepieces smooth cover | for sale at Reverb January 2019: Mosrite 25th Anniversary Ventures Limited 1988 Silver, price: 12,000 USD/10,911 EUR. |
1988-89 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: xxx88, xxx89
rounded body, no carve, no pickguard, triangeled plate on back, Moseley tremolo or fixed TP; normally: white PUs with polepieces, white backplate, normal roller bridge. Unbound rosewood fretboard on 2 piece maple neck at the early examples; the later examples have a maple fretboard with rosewood board below or on a 3 piece maple neck, large space between zero fret and stringguide. 1988 logo, signed by Semie on headstock front and back.
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3286 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 black polepieces | partsrite (C93 stamp in neck pocket), 90s bridge, normal non-1988 logo |
| 87100 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Banana Yellow | 2 black polepieces | 1987 (?), 90s bridge, strange logo, strange trussrod cover at headstock, black pickups, Gotoh tuner (?), with hang tag from Jonas Ridge – possibly partsrite; some pix and story here: Potential Mosrite owner in a few days |
| P088 (?) | Moseley | rosewood | goldburst | 2 white polepieces | Prototype, featured in this YouTube video: A day with Semie Moseley „Mosrite“ – Semie mentiones the serial number here: 5:25. Maybe this is the M88 that’s pictured in the 1988 Mosrite brochure? |
| 00588 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood | goldburst | 2 white polepieces | Early 1988 logo (different font) like that in Mosrite’s 1988 brochure; some pix here: The Wally Show, a great video here on YouTube: thewallyshow clip June 2008 Mosrite guitar. Picked up June 10th, 1988 |
| 0888 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood | sand metallic | 2 white polepieces | Early logo; at eBay Dec 2014: Mosrite M88 low s/n 0888, signed by Semie for BIN 3200 USD. |
| 01388 | – | – | Candy Apple Red | – | For sale from Tennessee in Vintage Guitar magazine back in 1991 (no pictures, so not more info) – thanks to W.S. for telling me. |
| 01488 | Moseley | maple | sparkle purple | 2 white polepieces | Picture and thread here at mosriteforum: New Guy with M88s. Thanks to W.S. for the info. More pix December 2016 here at facebook. |
| 02088 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood | sand metallic | 2 white polepieces | Guitar Auctions March 2014: Mosrite M-88 electric guitar, made in USA, 1988; one of five officially exported to the UK; sold for £750. This is the guitar that’s pictured in Tony Bacon’s „The Ultimate Guitar Book“ on page 93 or here at gettyimages. April 2015: for sale in Stockholm: Mosrite M88 Signerad av Semie Moseley for 26.000SEK (2800 EUR then). More pictures here: Mosrite M88 Sand Metallic |
| 02188 | Moseley | maple | Cranberry | 2 white polepieces | some pictures at facebook: Mosrite M88 |
| 02388 | Moseley | maple | sand metallic | 2 white polepieces | — |
| 02688 | Moseley | maple | Cranberry | 2 white polepieces | Thanks to J.P. |
| 02788 | Moseley | rosewood | Pearl White | 2 white polepieces | eBay May 2015 Mosrite M88 s/n 02788 „signed by semie“, BIN 2400 USD. In November 2015 it can be found on Gruhn Guitars: Mosrite M88, 1988 for 2500 USD. |
| 02888 | Moseley | maple | sandburst | 2 white polepieces | Guitar Auctions March 2014: Mosrite M-88 electric guitar, made in USA, 1988; one of five officially exported to the UK; sold for £1050 |
| 03288 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood | black | 2 white polepieces | at eBay Dec 2014: Mosrite M88 Hard Tail „signed by Semie Moseley“ for BIN 3400 USD. In November 2015 it can be found on Gruhn Guitars: Mosrite M88, 1988 for 2500 USD. |
| 03388 | Moseley hardtail | maple | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | Hardtail meanwhile changed to Moseley tremolo; maybe changed again |
| 03488 | Moseley | maple | gray metallic | 2 white polepieces | Headstock back has a ladybug sticker and „To JB“ in Semie’s handwriting. Reverb December 2017 Mosrite M88 1988 Gray Metallic, price 3400 USD (€2.957,05 then). Hope I’ve read the s/n correctly. |
| 03888 | Moseley hardtail | maple | Diamond Yellow/Butterscotch | 2 white polepieces | Guitar Auctions March 2014: Mosrite M-88 electric guitar, made in USA, 1988; one of five officially exported to the UK, sold for £920. Here’s a thread with some info and pictures: NGD!!! American Model V3 and an M-88. |
| 04088 | Moseley | rosewood | Diamond Ebony | 2 white polepieces | Thanks to J.P. |
| 04188 | – | – | yellow | – | For sale from Tennessee in Vintage Guitar magazine back in 1991 (no pictures, so not more info) – thanks to W.S. for telling me. |
| 04388 | Moseley | maple | sparkle blue | 2 white polepieces | Picture and thread here at mosriteforum: New Guy with M88s. Here’s a video at youtube: Review Mosrite M88 guitar thru Fender amp Semie Moseley. Thanks to W.S. for the info. |
| 04788 | Moseley | maple | black | 2 white polepieces | — |
| 05088 | Moseley | maple | Pearl White | 2 white polepieces | Small picture here at the Mosrite Owner’s List: Pearl white with white pickups, Flame maple fretboard. |
| 05188 | Moseley | maple | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | Guitar Auctions March 2014: Mosrite M-88 electric guitar, made in USA, 1988; one of five officially exported to the UK; sold for £800. Some more pictures here at eBay, May 2014: RARE Mosrite M-88 Electric Guitar + Hard Case Made in USA 1988 Signed Sunburst |
| 05788 | Moseley | maple | Diamond Money Green | 2 white polepieces | — |
| 0?788 | Moseley | maple | Diamond Ruby Red | 2 white polepieces | — |
| 0??88 | Moseley | maple | pink | 2 white polepieces | — |
| 0??88 | Moseley | maple | sand | 2 white polepieces | Great video here at youtube: Bugera 5 watt amp test with 1988 Mosrite Guitar – could not find out the s/n. |
| LISA88 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | pink with painting or sticker | 2 white polepieces | Butterflies painting/sticker; some info here: Tyler’s Mum’s Guitar! The picture is gone, but here’s a little talk about that guitar: One of the Last Mo‘ Bass made by Uncle Semie……. |
| ? | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | baby blue with painting | 2 white polepieces | Unicorn and angel painting, some info here: Semie’s grandson, Dustin’s guitar on eBay |
| 00289 | ? | ? | Transparent Orange | ? | Curly maple body maple neck, headstock + neck the same color as body; mentioned here at facebook: Wally please check… |
1988-89 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: xxx88, Vxxx, Vxx88, 89xxx
softly carved Ventures style body; normally: black PUs with polepieces, normal roller bridge, rosewood fretboard, 1988 logo, signed by Semie on headstock’s back or neck’s back, rarely on headstock’s front
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00488 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | white | 2 white polepieces | „for Ed Wilson“ on back of headstock. Pictures here at facebook: A MOSRITE 1988 BUILT BY MOSELY |
| V0588 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Diamond Blue | 2 white polepieces | neck & headstock painted |
| V0688 | – | – | Sunburst | For sale from Tennessee in Vintage Guitar magazine back in 1991 (no pictures, so not more info) – thanks to W.S. for telling me. | For sale from Tennessee in Vintage Guitar magazine back in 1991 (no pictures, so not more info) – thanks to W.S. for telling me. Got told it’s number 6, exact serial number’s just a guess ;) |
| V0788 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood with binding | Diamond Money Green | 2 white polepieces | Heritage Auctions February 2019: 1988 Mosrite 1988 Diamond Money Green Solid Body Electric Guitar, Serial # V0788… |
| V0888 | Moseley hardtail | rosewood with binding | Diamond Red | 2 white polepieces | Not sure about s/n – hard to read on the pictures. Neck, headstock & hardtail painted. Reverb November 2016: Mosrite Model 88 1988 Sparkle Red, price 2500 USD plus shipping. |
| V012 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Diamond Pink | 2 white polepieces | — |
| V015 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Diamond Money Green | 2 white polepieces | Reverb April 2017: MOSRITE 1988 V88 DIAMOND MONEY GREEN 1988 USA GUITAR<(a>, price: 4600 USD |
| V016 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 black polepieces | Trussrod screw at neck’s body end |
| V036 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Diamond Red | 2 white polepieces | — |
| V040 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Diamond Red | 2 white polepieces | Thanks to J.P. |
| V052 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | 2 white polepieces | — |
| WV88001 | Moseley | rosewood with binding | Natural Walnut | 2 black polepieces | Custom V; body & neck natural walnut |
| 89101 | Moseley | rosewood | Diamond Blue | 2 black polepieces | 1989 |
| 00001 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | 1989, truss at head, Grover tuner, made for Dan Wilson, pictures here at facebook: Don Wilson’s The Ventures Custom Mosrite |
„PICK ON A MOSRITE GUITAR
AT THE 1991 NAMM WINTER SHOW IN ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA ON JANUARY 18th through 21st
Dear Dealers:
I would like to extend am invitation to you to visit our booth #4493 at the Anaheim Convention Center – where you will see the REAL MOSRITE GUITARS, BUILT BY THE REAL SEMIE MOSELEY. Semie Moseley is the founder and creator of the world famous Mosrite Guitars; the guitars with „THE BUILT IN SOUL“.
It has been many years since I have exhibited my guitars at the Winter Show; si I have made a very special effort to bring the most beautiful guitars in the world to the show. I think it will be worth your while to visit our booth.
While at our booth you will experience the following:
1. The re-introduction of the Joe Maphis Single Neck Model. This, as some of you may remember, is the guitar which I designed in 1952. It was so well received that it was later endorsed by a group called The Ventures; it was then called the VENTURES Model.
2. The NOKIE Model which is endorsed by Nokie Edwards who was the lead guitar player for the Ventures for many years.
3. The RAMONES Model which is endorsed and played by the Ramones.
4. The GOSPEL Model which is played and has been played for many years by many Gospel musicians.
5. I have decided to build 40 very unique and beautiful guitars in honor of my 40th year, in 1992, building my Mosrite Guitars. These forty guitars will be custom made by me before the end of 1992. I will have the prototype on display at the show.
6. We will have two special guest artists at our booth; Brian Lobeck, who began his career as lead guitar player with the Mandrell Family––also taught Barbara to play the guitar. Jody Maphis, the son of Joe and Rose Lee Maphis.
Who knows what other surprises we may have for you. So maybe you should visit our booth #4493, or you might miss something.
SEE YOU AT THE NAMM SHOW!
Semie Moseley, President of
(the one and only)
MOSRITE GUITARS!!!!“
1988-91 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: xxx88, Nxxx, 90xxx
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03688 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple | dark blue | 2 white polepieces | 1988, Semie Moseley tremolo, maple fb, 1988 plus Nokie logo, „1st Nokie prototype“ (?) |
| N0002 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Diamonized Ebony | 2 white polepieces | 1988, 1988 and Nokie logo |
| N006 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | 1989, no Nokie logo, regular Ventures body. For sale here: 1989 Mosrite MK-1 Electric Guitar Sunburst – Used, price: USD 2499. Original Kluson style tuners changed to Grover Rotomatics. |
| N007 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | 1989, signed 1988, Nokie logo, picture here at facebook |
| N012 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple | green | 2 white polepieces | 1989; 1988 and Nokie logo |
| N014 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple | Sunburst | 2 white polepieces | 1989; 1988 and Nokie logo; Reverb November 2016: Mosrite The Nokie 1988, 1400 USD. |
| N0027 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Candy Apple Red | 2 black polepieces | 1990 (?); Reverb May 2014: 1990/91 Mosrite Nokie Model Candy Apple Red USA Made EX/NM w/HSC, 2195 USD. |
| N2 | Moseley | maple with binding | sparkle blue | 2 black no polepieces | 1990?, Nokie plate at serial number, signed by Nokie Edwards 1993 but not by Semie |
| 9000x | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Pearl White | 2 black no polepieces | 1990, Semie Moseley neckplate, custom vibrato handle, Reverb May 2017: Mosrite The Nokie Pearl White, BIN 6500 USD/6010 EUR. Seriel number hard to read, may be 90004 or 90007. |
| 90009 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Candy Apple Red | 2 black no polepieces | 1990, Semie Moseley neckplate, custom PG, some pictures here: 1990・Nokie Model（初代) |
| 900xx | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Sunburst | 2 black no polepieces | 1990, Semie Moseley neckplate, custom vibrato handle, eBay November 2018: Mosrite NOKIE EDWARDS MODEL Sunburst 1990 Made in Japan With Hard Case, BIN 3438USD |
| 90042 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Candy Apple Red | 2 black no polepieces | 1990, Semie Moseley neckplate, pots-date: 89-36 |
| 90082 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Sunburst | 2 black no polepieces | 1990, Semie Moseley neckplate |
| N91-38 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | sparkle blue | 2 black no polepieces | 1991, 1988 + The Nokie headstock logo, Semie Moseley neckplate, signed Semie Moseley at the headstock’s back and by Nokie Edward on the body. Auctioned at jauce.com August 2018: 超希少 極上美品MosriteUSA Nokie model 1988ノーキーモデル オリジナル 限定50本モズライトVENTURESベンチャーズ 自筆サイン入り△537B6-3. |
| N91-41 | – | maple on rosewood veneer | – | – | neck only sold by C.M. from Canada in 2007 – thanks to G.G. for that info! |
| N91-45 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | sparkle blue | 2 black no polepieces | 1991, Semie Moseley neckplate, ebay September 2020: Mosrite 1988 Nokie Model Blue Sparkle 1991 Used, 3716.87 USD. |
| N91-52 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple on rosewood veneer | Sunburst | 2 black no logo | 1991, Semie Moseley neckplate, Reverb March 2021: Mosrite The Nokie Model 1988 /1210, €4.054,52 from Tokyo. |
1986-92 – Jonas Ridge, NC and Booneville, AR
serial numbers: Txxx, SMxxx
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T031 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | humbuckers | 1986 |
| SMP01 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 black polepieces | Semie Moseley prototype, 1990 (?) Thanks to J.P. |
| no s/n | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | black | 2 black polepieces | 1991 (?), Sperzel tuner, headstock with „semie moseley Custom“ logo |
| 91 SM02 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | light blue with airbrush | 2 white polepieces | 1990/91, headstock’s back signed by Semie Moseley 1990 |
| SM004 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | blue with airbrush | 2 painted polepieces | 1992, sidejack, Nokie-model body shape. For sale March 2017 here: Mosrite Ventures Moon, price 1950 USD. |
| SM005 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Candy Apple Red with airbrush | 2 painted polepieces | 1992, sidejack, Nokie-model body shape |
1984-90 – Jonas Ridge, NC
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| no S/N | Moseley | rosewood with maple | California Grape | white | 1984, Double Axe prototype, set neck, carving on top and bottom, normal headstock (narrow as 65 Ventures II); pix and ad here at Fretted Americana: 1984 Mosrite Double Axe |
| AF001 | Moseley or black Moseley (changed) | rosewood with maple | Burnt Orange | 3 black polepieces | 1984, Double Axe prototype, 24 frets, pictures here at Expatguitar’s Photobucket site. |
| PT1DAX | Semie Moseley Vibramute | maple | flourescent pink sparkle | 3 white polepieces | 1988, Double Axe, carving on top only, Axe headstock (6 tuners in a line), 1988 headstock logo, signed on headstock’s back, pictures here at G-Base: 1988 Mosrite Double Axe Prototype |
1989-99 (?) – Jonas Ridge, NC and Booneville, AR
Early ones without ramone’s logo. The first may be the white custom made guitar that was made by Semie for Johnny. Some without logo seem to be 1-pickup-versions of other Mosrites.
The ones with the „The Ramone’s model“-logo may’ve been made by Unified Sound Association after Semie’s passed away.
| s/n | headstock logo | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 001 | 1988 style logo with „V-2“ instead of „1988“ | rosewood with binding | white | 1 black no polepieces bridge slanted | 1989, custom made for Johnny Ramone, b/w/b/w/b PG, headstock in body-color, 1988-„M“, bound neck, Grover tuners, fixed Moseley. Headstock has 1988-logo with „V-2“ below „mosrite“. Now on display at Guitar Center in NYC. Used by Johnny as second guitar live from 23.06.1990 (Brain Drain tour) – 20.12.1992 London (Mondo Bizarro Tour) (3.12.1989 Rotterdam he used the brown Ventures II, later again refinished in gold) and on the videos: Merry Christmas, Spiderman, I Don’t Want To Grow Up, MTV Movie Awards Medley (1995). Some pictures and info here: Johnny Ramone’s Custom White Mosrite V-2 |
| ? | 1988-M | rosewood with binding | black | 1 black bridge no polepieces | Johnny Ramone’s (?), white PG, natural headstock, 1988-„M“, bound neck, Kluson tuners, fixed Moseley. Given away in 1990 to an Italian fan? Or did the Ramones only deliver it to Italy? |
| R9003 | regular Mosrite, no addition except for an (R) | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | 1 black bridge straight | 1990, black PG, natural headstock, bound neck, Kluson tuners, fixed Moseley, Ventures body, Semie Moseley signed headstock back. Belonged to Johnny Ramone. Auction October 2016 here: Johnny Ramone Mosrite Johnny Ramone Model Electric Guitar, 1990, sold for $28,499. For sale again March 2017 here: Johnny Ramone’s 1990 Mosrite Ventures Model. |
| R9004 | 1988-M, „mosrite“ without any addition except for an (R) | rosewood with binding (untypical alignment frets-binding) | white | 1 black bridge straight | black PG, natural headstock, bound neck, Kluson tuners, fixed Moseley, Ventures body. For sale on G-Base.com/ebay for 5900,- USD in September 2011. Auction ended because of discussion if it’s original or not. Comparision between R9003 and R9004 seems to show that R9004 from the auction/ad is actual fake ;) Even the serial number’s punch stamps have a differnt font. |
| ? | – | – | Pearl White | 1 black bridge straight | black PG, natural headstock, classic „M“, wood-tailpiece, Ventures body. |
| RB001 | 1988-M, „mosrite“ without any addition | rosewood with binding | white | 1 black no-polepieces neck | 1990 Ramones bass custom made for CJ Ramone, Semie Moseley signed headstock back, Moseley hardtail, black Grover tuner, last pictures seen with CJ Ramone February 2001 (date of sale?). Auction October 2016 at www.skinnerinc.com: C.J. Ramone Mosrite The Ramones Model Electric Bass Guitar, 1990 (link’s gone). |
| 91005 | regular Mosrite | rosewood | Translucent Blonde | 1PU black straight bridge | ordered 1990, in fact a Victory III with only one PU, natural headstock, classic „M“-logo, Kluson-tuners; buyer (forum member mosriteguitars) wanted rosewood tailpiece for lower weight, story here at mosriteforum: Ramones Mosrite. For sale on Reverb in February 2020: Mosrite 1990 „Ramones“ model USA Semie RARE Blonde, price 20,000USD/19,191EUR. |
| RO2001 | Ramone’s | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | 2PU | 1993?, according to Tim/Tymguitars it’s hollow. My guess: It’s made after Semie’s death, maybe from parts (employee?, Loretta Moseley?). Some info here at mosriteforum: Mosrite – The Ramone’s model and here at guitarnerd: Mosrite – The Ramone’s model. |
| RO2003 | Ramone’s | rosewood with binding | metallic blue | 2PU | 1993?, according to Tim/Tymguitars it’s hollow. My guess: It’s made after Semie’s death, maybe from parts (employee?, Loretta Moseley?). Some info here at mosriteforum: Mosrite – The Ramone’s model and here at guitarnerd: Mosrite – The Ramone’s model. |
| ? | Ramone’s | rosewood with binding | blue | 1PU, straight | 1997/2001?, black PG, bound neck, Ramone’s logo, story here: mosriteforum. Was given back to Loretta Moseley. Here’s the old info on Jari-Pekka Laitio’s Ramones site: MOSRITE GUITARS WILL BE BUILDING RAMONES MODEL |
| ? | Ramone’s | – | metallic pink (CAR) | 1PU, straight | 2001, Ramone’s logo, story here: mosriteforum. Here’s the old info on Jari-Pekka Laitio’s Ramones site: MOSRITE GUITARS WILL BE BUILDING RAMONES MODEL |
1990 – Jonas Ridge, NC
| s/n | model | color | pickups | body-shape | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ? | ? | white with painting | 2 white polepieces | Nokie | with Jesus portrait on body, used for promo pictures |
| no s/n | I prototype | Sunburst | 3 black polepieces | Ventures | 1990, Semie Moseley Vibramute, w/b/w/b/w + b/w/b/w/b PGs, hang-tag „3 Pickup / V-1 Gospel / Sunburst“, picture here at facebook: Gospel Victory 1 (Three Pickup Prototype); for sale October 2012 at Fretted Americana for 5500 USD |
| G9012 | I | gold | 2 white no polepieces | Ventures | Grover Rotomatic tuners, Thanks to J.P. |
| G1006 | I | gold | 3 white no polepieces | Gospel Victory I | Kluson style tuners, Thanks to J.P. |
| G2003 | II | gold | 2 white no polepieces | Ventures | Thanks to J.P. |
| G3003 | III | translucent blond | 2PUs, white, no polepieces | slab | w/b/w/b/w PG, Thanks to J.P. |
| GB001 | Bass | red | 1 black polepieces | analogue Victory II | w/b/w PG, Mosrite and Gospel logo |
| GB006 | Bass | sparkle gold | 1 white no polepieces | analogue Victory II | w/b/w/b/w PG |
| ?/- | partsrite | sparkle gold | 2 white no polepieces | – | „1990 Gospel by Semie Moseley. Model M-88. Built in Canada from parts.This guitar is 8 lbs/10 oz The back of the headstock is signed and dated by Semie.“ – ad here: Gospel guitar by Semie Moseley. Model M-88, price: 2250 USD |
91 – Jonas Ridge, NC
serial numbers: J0xx
| s/n | year | color | tailpiece | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G2004 | 1990 | Sunburst | Semie Moseley Vibramute | black singlecoil with polepieces | Facebook May 2021: my Joe Maphis model needs some fret work., s/n as seen on photo |
| J001 | 1991 | Sunburst | Vibramute | black singlecoil with polepieces | Semie Moseley neckplate, ornamented pickguard and arm rest; no logo on headstock |
| 91010 | 1991 | Sunburst | Vibramute | black humbucker with polepieces | ornamented pickguard and arm rest, Joe Maphis model on headstock, signed by Semie Moseley 1990 |
1992 – Booneville, AR
Bound Ventures Body, sidejack
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0004 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Thanks to the owner for the info. |
| 0007 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Signed by Nokie Edwards; ad July 2016 here: mosrite The Nokie 30th FRPツァーケース付き USED品・送料込み, price 1,050,000円 (8932 EUR then). The ad says it’s made Juli 31, 1992. New ad with better pictures October 2018: mosrite The Nokie 30th 元箱 オリジナルケース付き 中古品 |
| 0024 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Signed by Nokie Edwards 1992 |
| 0029 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | eBay October 2015: Free Shipping USED Mosrite USA The Nokie 30th Anniversary 1993 Electric Guitar δ. I don’t know if that’s a real ad, so beware. But the pictures are real. BIN is US $6,463.00. Seems to be in Japan, but who knows… |
| 0032 or 0052 (?) NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | pictures here in dorkrockrecord’s photobucket: Nokie |
| 0044 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Signed by Nokie Edwards and others – eBay September 2016: Mosrite USA The Nokie 30th Anniversary, price 8401 USD. |
| 0051 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Thanks to the owner for the info. |
| 0056 NA30 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sparkle Blueburst | Sparkle Blue | Signed by Nokie Edwards |
1992 – Booneville, AR
Expat Guitars: „Mosrite of California 40th Anniversary The Ventures Model 63 bound sidejack Reissue produced in 1992 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the company. (…) Prototyped by Semie Moseley before his death, (…) only 40 made. Built in Booneville, Arkansas, exclusively for the Japanese market. An accurate recreation of Mosrite’s most iconic design, complete with hot handwound smooth cover pickups, spun knobs, Vibramute, and convex carve on the treble edge. These came in two colors, Nokie (Sunburst) or Don (Strawberry Red) (…). Highly collectible, unseen outside of Japan (…), opaque-to-translucent burst on the back of the neck.“
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40001 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | black smooth polepieces | Golden neckplate „Semie Moseley 40th Anniversary 1952 – 1992“ |
| 0059 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | black smooth polepieces | pictures at hyperguitars: Mosrite ’92 The Ventures Model 40th Anniversary |
| 014x | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | black smooth polepieces | s/n 0143 or 0145 (hard to read on the small pictures), eBay October 2016: Mosrite 1992 year made USA The Ventures Model 40th Anniversary Electric, BIN 3975 USD. Weight: 3.93kg. |
| 0xxx | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Strawberry Red | black smooth polepieces | sorry, I don’t know the serial number – for sale in Japan November 2016: Mosrite ’92.MOSRITE THE VENTURES MODEL 40TH ANNIVERSARY U.S.A., price: ￥432,000 (3697 EUR/3989 USD then). |
| 0147 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Strawberry Red | black smooth polepieces | Serial number hard to read (on the small pictures), eBay January 2016: Mosrite THE VENTURES MODEL 40th Anniversary Strawberry Red, BIN 4588 USD. Weight: 3.75kg. |
| 0149 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | black smooth polepieces | eBay August 2016: 1992 Mosrite THE VENTURES MODEL 40TH ANNIVERSARY Limited Electric Guitar w/HC, BIN 5215 USD. Weight: 3.95kg. |
| 0153 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Strawberry Red | black smooth polepieces | — |
| 0157 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Strawberry Red | black smooth polepieces | yahoo April 2018: 【返品OK】[良品] mosrite MARK-1 1963 Reissue Red ベンチャーズ [ME658], weight: 3.6kg. |
| 0178 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | ? | black smooth polepieces | Could only find a picture of the framed plate |
1992-93 – Booneville, AR
M88 body with small pickguard
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA001 | Moseley | Rosewood without binding | purple to light blue metallic (incl. headstock) | 2 white polepieces | Gbase March 2021: 1992 Mosrite Built in Soul blue-burst, price: 12000 USD |
| SM P4 | Moseley | Rosewood without binding | Antigua, originally Antigua headstock (lost in resoration) | 2 black polepieces | Skinner Auctions June 2021: Mosrite „Built in Soul“ Model Electric Guitar, 1993; „Restored silkscreen and overspray to headstock face“ according to seller. Old add before the headstock restoration: 1円【ジャンク】 モズライト風 カスタムギター 【82】. Juli 2021: 1993 Mosrite Built in Soul Model M88 Electric Guitar USA Vintage Rare, price 2.462,54 €/2.800 $ |
| SM036 | Vibramute | Rosewood without binding | met. blue (incl. headstock) | 2 black polepieces |
1993 – Booneville, AR
Slab body Ventures model, actually very similar to the 1990/91 Ramones Model/Gospel Victory III but with a bevelling on the lower bout and back (similar to a strat). Allegedly made for the Japanese market; a Mosrite flyer (Booneville, 1992 or 93) calls it „V–1 Series“.
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ? | Mosrite hardtail | Rosewood without binding | metallic blue (incl. headstock) | 2 black polepieces | The Nokie logo and 88’s M-star on headstock; pictured on a Booneville, Arkansas flyer |
| ME002 | Mosrite hardtail | Rosewood without binding | red, red headstock | 2 black polepieces | large The Ventures logo on headstock |
| ME003 | Mosrite hardtail | Rosewood without binding | black, natural headstock | 2 black polepieces | no The Ventures logo on headstock |
1993 – Booneville, AR
Ventures model 30th Anniversary, allegedly 30 built for Japan (golden hardware) and 10 built for the USA (chrome hardware); headstock logo Ventures (without „The“).
| s/n | color | tailpiece | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300x | Pearl White | Golden Vibramute | black smooth polepieces | Reverb February 2021: Mosrite [USED]Model ’63 made in USA [3.83kg] 1993 Pearl White[GTK017], price: ¥550.000 / $5.470,94, s/n hard to read, may be 3009. |
| 3037 | Pearl White | Golden Vibramute | black smooth polepieces |
1993 – Booneville, AR
Allegedly 50 in Marine Blue and 10 in Pearl White have been built in the USA in 1993. Unique Vibramute tremolo and headstock logo.
| s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KK00x | Yuzo Kayama Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | black | December 2015, ad here: モズライト加山ＫＫモデル 1993年パール 製造本数10本程度レアー, price: 860,000 YEN (6420 EUR/7000USD then) |
| KK008 | Yuzo Kayama Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | black | ad here: Mosrite モズライト USA 加山雄三モデル エレキギター ホワイト YUZO KAYAMA 希少 レア, price: 383,999 YEN |
| KC021 | Yuzo Kayama Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Marine Blue | black | May 2021, ad here: ★Mosrite USA「初代 加山雄三モデル 1993年 シリアル KC-021」モズライト・ビルト・イン・ソウル 30本限定? YUZO KAYAMA MODEL BLUE, sold for 661,000.– YEN. More pictures here: http://www.vintagerecord.com/mosrite |
| KC03x | Yuzo Kayama Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Marine Blue | black | December 2016, ad here: モズライト 加山雄三 KC35周年モデル モズライト 加山雄三 KC35周年モデル, price: 480,000 YEN (3941 EUR/4162USD then) |
1981-88 – Jonas Ridge, NC
| s/n | year | model | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ? | 1981 | Custom doubleneck for Barbara Mandrell | silver blue glitter | changed to Bartolini pickups | Pix and story here: NMM 6191. Electric double-neck guitar by Semie Moseley, Carson City, Nevada, 1981. |
| PRO001 | 1986 | Custom doubleneck tribute to Joe Maphis | Sunburst | black without polepieces and custom | Pix and info in this January 2015 eBay add: 1986 Mosrite JM65 Double Neck Electric Guitar & Octave Guitar; BIN: USD 6775. Old fretted Americana add here: 1986 Mosrite Joe Maphis Double-Neck |
| JM06 | 1986 | Joe Maphis doubleneck | Sunburst | custom, black with polepieces | Moseley, “Built with Love By Semie Moseley, 1986”, Reberb February 2021: Super Rare Mosrite Joe Maphis Doubleneck Semie Moseley Signed 1986, BIN 5.150 USD. |
| JM41 | 1987 | Joe Maphis doubleneck | Sunburst | custom, black with polepieces | Moseley, “Made with Love By Semie Moseley, 1987” and “For you Joe, Love you, Semie”. At eBay April 2015: 1987 Mosrite Joe Maphis Double Neck Six String Octave Guitar Sunburst Signed, BIN 5995 USD. |
| 72587 | 1987 | Joe Maphis Custom doubleneck | transparent cherryburst | transparent cherryburst | Moseley, “Made by Semie Moseley for Ross Coan 1987 Semie Moseley” and “To my very dear friend Ross, thank you for your kindness Semie Moseley 1987”. The guitar is not a solid body, the top and back are two pieces of laminated maple and walnut which are hollowed out and glued, the center strip is a solid piece of very flamed maple. Both necks are three piece; laminated flamed maple with a walnut center stripe. The regular fingerboard is Brazilian rosewood the octave fingerboard looks like Indian rosewood. At mosriteforum.com |
| ? | 1988 | Custom doubleneck for Larry Collins | Redburst | white Carvin AP-6 clones by Hallmark | Picture here at mosriteforum: Mosrite Double Necks, more on page 2 |
| ? | 1988 | Mister President | Sunburst | 3PUs, white, with polepieces | made for George Bush Sr. (who never got it). Pix and info in this April 2015 eBay add: MOSRITE MR PRESIDENT GUITAR; starting at USD 30.000, BIN: USD 39.000. |
1981-92 – Jonas Ridge, NC
Guitars that can’t be subsumed in any other category
| year | s/n | tailpiece | fretboard | color | pickups | note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | B016 | part of body | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | bass humbucker | Axe Bass, Auction October 2016: Mosrite Custom Axe Electric Bass Guitar, c. 1980 |
| 1984 | ? | – | – | bright blue metallic | 1 black polepieces | Barbara Mandrell Guitar Crutch; at NMM 6190. Electric lap steel guitar by Semie Moseley, Jonas Ridge, North Carolina, 1984. |
| 1985 | CUSTOM 01EJG 22785 | Moseley (gold) | Mark VII/VIII neck without fretmarkers, rosewood with multiple wood binding | Blueburst | 3 black polepieces | Actually a Mark VIII, custom made for Elaine Garnton; for sale at reverb.com: Mosrite Owned By Elaine Garnton 1985’s Blue One Of kind! Made By Semie Moseley Himself! , price: 19875 usd |
| 1986 | 42839 ROSS | Moseley | rosewood with binding | natural Birdseye maple top | custom wooden humbuckers | Joe Maphis Custom, custom made for Ross Coan; for sale at reverb.com: Mosrite Joe Maphis Custom 1986 Natural , price: 13500 usd |
| 1987 | 1X | Moseley hardtail | rosewood with binding | Stormgrey | 2 black polepieces | Ventures II prototype, very similar to the 1984 Mark VII – hang tag: „The Ventures 11 Grey Body 87 Yr.“, at www.frettedamericana.com October 2012, price: 4850 usd |
| 1988 | CHRIS | custom | translucent red | 1 white neck with polepieces | 1 white neck with polepieces | 1988 headstock logo, made for Christopher Todd Clark, signed on neck. Some pictures here at the owner’s flickr album Custom Mosrite Hand Made By Semi Moseley Himself. |
| 1989 | ? | two brass Vibramutes, sanded down and drilled to hardtails | octave: rosewood with binding guitar: rosewood with multiple binding like 1984 Mark VIII | Pearl White | 3 black polepieces 1 white polepieces full size pickguard, no pickup rings | Doubleneck, made by Semie Moseley for Mark Moseley, for sale here November 2018: 世界に1本 SEMI MOSELEY入魂 モズライト MOSRITE MARK.MOSELEY model 直筆セミーモズレー遺言?付, and here: 世界に1本 SEMI MOSELEY入魂 モズライト MOSRITE MARK.MOSELEY model 直筆セミーモズレー遺言?付,BIN: 5,000,000円 (38,875EUR/44,260USD then). |
| 1989 | V052 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Pearl White | 2 white polepieces | Tone Chamber (?), Semie Moseley neckplate |
| 1990 | V0157 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | Sunburst | 2 black polepieces | Sunburst finish with matching violin tailpiece plus Vibramute, special pickguard/armrest, humbuckers, custom made for Marty Stuart. Auction October 2016: Marty Stuart Mosrite JM65 Single Neck Electric Guitar, 1990 |
| 1990 | V0170 | Vibramute | rosewood with binding | metallic red | 2 black polepieces | „Custom Tone Chamber Ventures“ |
| 1990 | no s/n (?) | Moseley hardtail | rosewood, no binding | metallic red | 2 black humbuckers without polepieces | Mosrite of Canada logo at headstock, prototype, Reverb January 2019: Mosrite of Canada Mark I Prototype 1990 cranberry red, pots 1379001, Moseley hardtail, Grover tuners, shape/pickguard similar to V88, price: $3.799. |
| 1991 | MOT-1 | Semie Moseley Vibramute | rosewood with binding and M C inlay | metallic blue/purple, flame pinestriping | 2 black humbuckers with polepieces | Made for Mötley Crüe’s Mick Mars. Dana Moseley: „My Dad delivered it personally. In the truss rod cavity there should be a strip of cloth that Dad had his church pray over because he was concerned about giving this guitar to, (what he thought was), a Satanic group. My father was a very religious man. The story goes that 2 wks later was when MC broke up.“. For sale March 2017 here: Mosrite MC, price: 2,900 USD. In January 2021 for sale on Reverb: Mosrite [Vibramute Model] specially built for Mick Mars of Mötley Crüe by Semie Mosely 1991 Metallic blue/purple with flame pinstriping, price: 12,500 USD. |
| 1991 | P4000 | custom tremolo | brasilian rosewood with binding | natural | 2 black humbuckers polepieces | 40th Anniversary Prototype, brasilian rosewood/curly maple body |
| 1992 (?) | ? | Moseley | rosewood with binding | red | 2 black polepieces | Gary Paxton’s cartoonish Mosrite, some pix here at the mosriteforum. |
last modification: October 03, 2021