Most of the time we don’t pay much attention to our serial numbers, instead focusing on the graphics or stickers of our boards. The serial number can, however, be an interesting clue into the history of your snowboard.
Since the early 90’s, Burton has had a fairly consistent process for applying serial numbers to their snowboards. Those numbers can oftentimes tell you more information, if you know what to look for.
The most informative number in the serial is the first number. This designates the purpose of the snowboard.
"1"
A one at the front means your board was a 1st quality production board. Most boards you buy in a retail setting have a one as the first digit.
"2"
A two at the beginning of your number means the board is a factory 2nd or blemish. Generally this is cosmetic, like a goof in the graphic, or even more likely, a lacquer finish that will eventually crackle or chip off.
"5"
Unless you are in the industry, you are unlikely to see a 5. This is the first number placed on boards that are made as “On Snow Demos” for industry people to ride and test. Often these boards don’t have production graphics. In fact, in many cases, on-snow-demo boards all share the identical graphic, only a bit of sharpie writing in the right spot lets you know what the actual board model is.
"7"
Sales Sample.
"8"
Another rare first number, 8’s are photo samples, built for both still and action product shots.
"9"
A nine at the beginning means your board was originally meant for a rep or employee. A lot of pro riders ride boards that start with a 9. If you have one of these, it is very likely that you got your board from someone on the inside of the industry.
Check back in for another post in a few days with more interesting serial number info!
-Alex