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1. #Gibson guitar identification serial number how to
2. #Gibson guitar identification serial number serial numbers
3. #Gibson guitar identification serial number serial number

For example, after 1969, it’s unlikely your guitar would have a label saying it was made overseas, but you might have a seven-digit serial number that could tell that story. Norlin acquired CMI and moved all of the production of Epiphone to Japan and subsequently to Korea.ĭuring each of these transitions, there were also changes made to how the instruments were labeled, which is part of the reason why the serial number identification process is so confusing. As they already owned Gibson, this merge brought the two powerful brand names under one umbrella. In 1957, the Chicago Musical Instrument Company (CMI) acquired Epiphone. They grew in popularity and by the 1950’s, became Gibson’s main rival. In the 1930’s, they switched up their business model and began producing high-end guitars, and became the only manufacturer to successfully make the transition. There you have it! There are many exceptions, and of course many other brands out there, but now you can tell how old most Fenders or Gibsons are within seconds.To understand the significance of the Epiphone serial number, we first need to look at how their company historyintertwines with that of Gibson.Įpiphone started as a family business in 1873 as a luxury banjo manufacturer.

#Gibson guitar identification serial number serial numbers

The remaining characters (RRR) can indicate the order of instruments created that day, as well as which factory the instrument was made in. At least two types of stamped serial numbers can be found on Gibsons made in (or around) 1976 (again, 1976 instruments with stamped numbers are fairly rare): 1.00027xxx for the 2 nd day of the year of 2007 (January 2, 2007).Serial numbers which start with 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,0 & 1, and are 6 digits long are most likely to be a solid body, all bar a few 4 digit serial numbers were LP Juniors or Gibson Specials from 1958. Gibsons have this pattern stamped onto the back of their headstocks: YDDDYRRR A 6 digit serial number is solid-bodied guitars produced from the years: 1955, 1956, 1959, or 1960.Gibson serial numbers are even more interesting, because you can find out the specific date that your instrument was completed! Here's how:.Serial number coding for Mexican-made instruments is largely the same, except they will start with an M.With over 100 guitar identification books and thousands of photos, we can usually identify a guitar over the phone in just a few minute. For example, a Gibson made in 1967 may have the exact same serial number as one made in 1963. It is estimated that Gibson’s Kalamazoo plant continued to use the six-digit serial numbers through 19. Other makers, however, changed the pattern, and even repeated serial numbers. The remaining digits are important for product identification, but the first few characters are all you need to determine the instruments age. 1970s can be used to demonstrate the old-style, six-digit serial num-bers.

#Gibson guitar identification serial number how to

Here's a brief rundown of how to do it, plus resources for more information.

Well, good news it's very easy to figure out the age of Fender and Gibson instruments from the last 30 years. Ever wonder exactly when your favorite guitar was made? You sort of remember when you got it, but you want to really know its history, especially if you're not the first owner.