YAMAHA Model FG-180 GUITAR -  Green label ( pre-RED LABEL NIPPON GAKKI) – Made in Japan This Historically significant FG- 180 is very early indeed . There is serial number of 595958 stamped inside on the heel block, and probably dates to 1966 or earlier. This guitar has all the attributes of a red label Nippon Gakki MIJ guitar which were distributed in the USA from 1966-1974, however this guitar features the Green label, which I believe was not distributed in the USA. What I have read is these Green labels preceded the Red labels or ran in parallel with the red labels.  It is interesting to note that the Green label design features a Yamaha piano, which would indicate an early guitar; as the Yamaha Company carried over aspects of their piano labelling as they entered the guitar market. This was dropped on the red labeled Nippon Gakki models. This guitar modelled after a Martin Dreadnaught, and is built with quality tone woods. The top is Spruce, has Mahogany sides and back, and caps the front of the headstock. The fret-board and bridge is Indian Rosewood, neck is one piece Nato.  The front of the body has a very attractive 7 ply alternating white and amber scheme with black on the inside and outside edges. The back of the body is bound in a single layer of black. There is no binding on the neck or headstock. The individual Chrome Yamaha marked butter-bean style tuners appear to be original and show little wear and hold the guitar to tuned pitch very well. The chrome and black truss rod cover is in mint shape. The fret dots appear to be a Mother of Pearl type of plastic. There is a Made in Japan decal on the back of the headstock. The black stained wooden end pin jack still retains all its carved lines and appears to have no wear. Someone has added an aluminum strap button the side of the neck and is nicely done.  The guitar is structurally and mechanically sound, no cracks,  a tight neck, working truss rod and tuners. It must have sat under some-ones bed for many years.   The fret wires have only the slightest wear, and the fret board itself has no finger wear what-so ever. The finish is excellent with no wear thru on the entire guitar. This guitar is in excellent condition over all except for the front of the headstock which has some clouding, probably due moisture when the final clear coat was sprayed over the Yamaha logo.   This guitar has great projection, and a great tone. I am a big fan of Yamaha’s sound. I own 3 other vintage Yams.   A few months back I have seen this model sell in a Japanese dealer for close to $1000.00 . So my pricing is quite reasonable. Comes with a newer Terrapin case and will be well packed. Shipping will be a flat rate of $50.00 in the U.S.  I do not have any experience shipping internationally , but might be open to this if the buyers pays all costs, tariffs and taxes, please inquire if this is the case. I only accept Paypal , and will consider other offers. Feel free to ask me any questions, and check out my feedback, even though it’s been awhile since I sold on Ebay. Thanks