Yamaha Dynamic Guitar No 20 (1962-1964)

Vintage Yamaha Dynamic Guitar No. 20, made in Japan between 1962 and 1964 during the Nippon Gakki era. This model is part of Yamaha’s early “Dynamic” series, produced for the Japanese domestic market and known for its solid construction, strong projection, and long-term structural stability.

This example features the original interior label with “PAT. NO. 187409”, confirming correct early-1960s production.

Construction & Specs

• Top: Solid Ezo spruce
• Back & sides: Maple
• Fingerboard & bridge: Oak
• Scale length: approx. 645 mm
• Nut width: approx. 49 mm
• Fingerboard radius: Flat (classical-style)
• Tuners: Original Yamaha tuning machines (operate smoothly and hold tuning well)

Condition

Overall good to very good condition for a guitar of this age.
Signs of use are more noticeable on the back than the front, consistent with normal vintage wear. There are no cracks, no holes, and nothing that affects sound or playability.

The guitar has been visually inspected and shows no signs of previous work or repairs.
It is structurally intact, solid, and very well built.

• Bridge is very well glued to the top, with no lifting or movement
• No belly behind the bridge
• Neck is straight and healthy

Playability & Setup

• Current action is set at approx. 2.0 mm, which is (very) low by classical-guitar standards
• This low action clearly demonstrates good neck angle and healthy overall geometry
• Frets have lots of life remaining
• Plays cleanly and comfortably up the neck

Tone

Clear, woody, and dynamic, with good projection and articulation typical of early Yamaha Dynamic guitars. A lively, responsive instrument with real vintage character.

Case & Shipping

• The guitar will be shipped in a heavy-duty international guitar shipping box
• These are ultra-strong boxes commonly used for guitars shipped from Japan and provide excellent protection for long-distance transport
• Fully insured