Gibson Serial Number Identifier for
Guitars, Banjos, Bass, Mandolins ...
Finding the year your Gibson was made.
JUMP DOWN TO YEARS
1903-1947 1947-1961 1961-1969 1970-1975 1975-1977
1978 to date: use the first and the fifth number in the serial number.
GIBSON SERIALIZATION
Identifying Gibson instruments by serial number is tricky and at sometimes impossible.
The best methods of identifying them is by using a combination of the serial number,
the factory order number and any features that are particular to a specific time that changes
may have occurred in instrument design (i.e. logo design change, headstock volutes, etc).
So far there have been 6 different serial number styles used on Gibson instruments.
The first serial numbers started in 1902 and ran until 1947.
The serial numbers started with 100 and went to 99999. All numbers are approximates.
In most cases, only the high end instruments were assigned identification numbers.
1903 to 1947 CHART
Year Made First serial number of that year Last serial number of that year
1903 100 1150
1904 1151 1850
1905 1851 2550
1906 2551 3350
1907 3351 4250
1908 4251 5450
1909 5451 6950
1910 6951 8750
1911 8751 10850
1912 10851 13350
1913 13351 16100
1914 16101 20150
1915 20151 25150
1916 25151 32000
1917 32001 39500
1918 39501 47900
1919 47901 53800
1920 53801 62200
1921 62201 69300
1922 69301 71400
1923 71401 74900
1924 74901 80300
1925 80301 82700
1926 82701 83600
1927 83601 85400
1928 85401 87300
1929 87301 89750
1930 89751 90200
1931 90201 90450
1932 90451 90700
1933 90701 91400
1934 91401 92300
1935 92301 92800
1936 92801 94100
1937 94101 95200
1938 95201 95750
1939 95751 96050
1940 96051 96600
1941 96601 97400
1942 97401 97700
1943 97701 97850
1944 97851 98250
1945 98251 98650
1946 98651 99300
1947 99301 99999
White oval labels were used on instruments from 1902 to 1954,
at which time the oval label was changed to an orange color.
On instruments with round sound holes, this label is visible directly below it.
On f-hole instruments, it is visible through the upper f-hole.
The second type of serial numbers used started with an A prefix and ran from 1947 to 1961.
The first number is A 100.
1947 to 1961 CHART
REMEMBER
in this chart all serial numbers start with - A -
Year Made First serial number of that year Last serial number of that year
1947 A100 A1305
1948 A1306 2665
1949 A2666 4410
1950 A4411 6595
1951 A6596 9420
1952 A9421 12460
1953 A12461 17435
1954 A17436 18665
1955 A18666 21910
1956 A21911 24755
1957 A24756 26820
1958 A26821 28880
1959 A28881 32285
1960 A32286 35645
1961 A35646 36150
Please read this:
Here is where the " SOMETIMES " rule applies.
When production of solid body guitars began, an entirely new serial number system was developed.
Though not used on the earliest instruments produced (those done in 1952),
a few of these instruments have 3 digits stamped on the headstock top.
Some time in 1953, instruments were ink stamped on the headstock back with 5 or 6 digit numbers,
the first indicating the year, the following numbers are production numbers.
The production numbers run in a consecutive order and, aside from a few oddities
in the change over years (1961-1962), it is fairly accurate to use them when identifying
solid body instruments produced between 1953 and 1961. Examples of this system:
4 2205 = 1954 614562 = 1956 In 1961 Gibson started a new serial number system that covered all instrument lines.
It consisted of numbers that are impressed into the wood.
It is also generally known to be the most frustrating and hard to understand system that Gibson has employed.
The numbers were used between the years 1961-1969.
There are several instances where batches of numbers are switched in order,
duplicated, not just once, but up to four times, and seem to be randomly assigned, throughout the decade.
In general though, the numbers are approximately as follows:
APPROXIMATE YEAR SERIAL RANGE
1961 to 1969
1961 100-42440
1962 42441-61180
1963 61450-64220
1964 64240-70500
1962 71180-96600
1963 96601-99999
1967 000001-008010
1967 010000-042900
1967 044000-044100
1967 050000-054400
1967 055000-063999
1967 064000-066010
1967 067000-070910
1967 090000-099999
1963, 1967 100000-106099
1963 106100-108900
1963, 1967 109000-109999
1963 110000-111549
1963, 1967 111550-115799
1963 115800-118299
1963, 1967 118300-120999
1963 121000-139999
1963, 1967 140000-140100
1963 140101-144304
1964 144305-144380
1963 144381-145000
1963 147009-149864
1964 149865-149891
1963 149892-152989
1964 152990-174222
1964, 1965 174223-176643
1964 176644-199999
1964 200000-250335
1965 250336-291000
1965 301755-302100
1965 302754-305983
1965, 1967 306000-306100
1965, 1967 307000-307985
1965, 1967 309848-310999
1965 311000-320149
1967 320150-320699
1965 320700-321100
1965 322000-326600
1965 328000-328500
1965 328700-329179
1965, 1967 329180-330199
1965, 1967, 1968330200-332240
1965 332241-347090
1965 348000-348092
1966 348093-349100
1965 349121-368638
1966 368640-369890
1967 370000-370999
1966 380000-385309
1967 390000-390998
1965, 1966, 1967, 1968 400001-400999
1966 401000-407985
1966 408000-408690
1966 408800-409250
1966 420000-426090
1966 427000-429180
1966 430005-438530
1966 438800-438925
1965, 1966, 1968, 1969 500000-500999
1965 501010-501600
1968 501601-501702
1965, 1968 501703-502706
1968 503010-503110
1965, 1968 503405-520955
1968 520956-530056
1966, 1968, 1969530061-530850
1968, 1969 530851-530993
1969 530994-539999
1966, 1969 540000-540795
1969 540796-545009
1966 550000-556910
1969 558012-567400
1966 570099-570755
1969 580000-580999
1966, 1967, 1968, 1969 600000-600999
1969 601000-601090
1969 605901-606090
1966, 1967 700000-700799
1968, 1969 750000-750999
1966, 1967, 1968, 1969 800000-800999
1966, 1969 801000-812838
1969 812900-814999
1969 817000-819999
1966, 1969 820000-820087
1966 820088-823830
1969 824000-824999
1966, 1969 828002-847488
1966 847499-858999
1967 859001-880999
1967 893401-895038
1968 895039-896999
1967 897000-898999
1968 899000-899999
1968 900000-902250
1968 903000-920899
1968 940000-941009
1968 942001-943000
1968 945000-945450
1968 947415-956000
1968 959000-960909
1968 970000-972864
1970 to 1975 and more identifier information.
From 1970-1975 the method of serializing instruments at Gibson became even more random.
All numbers were impressed into the wood and a six digit number assigned,
though no particular order was given and some instruments had a letter prefix.
The orange labels inside hollow bodied instruments was discontinued in 1970 and were replaced
by white and orange rectangle labels on the acoustics, and small black, purple and white rectangle
labels were placed on electric models.
In 1970, the words "MADE IN USA" was impressed into the back of instrument headstocks
(though a few instruments from the 1950s also had MADE IN USA impressed into their headstocks as well).
Year (s) Approximate Series Manufacture
1970, 1971, and 1972 100000s, 600000s, 700000s, 900000s
1973 000001s, 100000s, 200000s, 800000s and a few “A” + 6 digit numbers
1974 and 1975 100000s, 200000s, 300000s, 400000s,500000s, 600000s, 800000s
and a few A-B-C-D-E-F + 6 digit numbers
1975-77
During the period from 1975-1977 Gibson used a transfer that had eight digit numbers,
the first two indicate the year, 99=1975, 00=1976 and 06=1977,
the following six digits are in the 100000 to 200000 range.
MADE IN USA were also included on the transfer and some models had LIMITED EDITION also applied.
A few bolt on neck instruments had a date ink stamped on the heel area.
In 1977, Gibson first introduced the serialization method that is in practice today.
This updated system utilizes an impressed eight digit numbering scheme
that covers both serializing and dating functions. The pattern is as follows:
YDDDYPPP
YY is the production year DDD is the day of the year PPP is the plant designation and/or instrument rank.
The numbers 001-499 show Kalamazoo production, 500-999 show Nashville production.
The Kalamazoo numbers were discontinued in 1984.
When acoustic production began at the plant built in Bozeman,
Montana (in 1989), the series' numbers were reorganized.
Bozeman instruments began using 001-299 designations and, in 1990,
Nashville instruments began using 300-999 designations.
It should also be noted that the Nashville plant has not reached the 900s since 1977,
so these numbers have been reserved for prototypes. Examples:
70108276 means the instrument was produced on Jan.10, 1978, in Kalamazoo and was the 276th instrument stamped that day.
82765501 means the instrument was produced on Oct. 3, 1985, in Nashville and was the 1st instrument stamped that day.
However, it has come to light recently that the Kalamazoo plant did not directly switch over to the “new”
8 digit serialization method in 1977.
When the Nashville Gibson plant was opened in 1974, it was decided that the bulk of the production
of products would be run in the South; the Kalamazoo plant would produce the higher end (fancier) models in the North.
Of course, many of the older guitar builders and craftsmen were still in Kalamazoo;
and if they weren't ready to change how they built guitars, then they may not have been
ready to change how they numbered them! Certain guitar models built in the late 1970s can be used
to demonstrate the old-style 6 digit serial numbers. It is estimated that Gibson's Kalamazoo plant
continued to use the 6 digit serial numbers through 1978 and 1979. So double check the serial
numbers on those 1970s L-5s, Super 400s, and Super 5 BJBs!
Gibson's F O N System
In addition to the above serial number information, Gibson also used Factory Order Numbers (F O N)
to track batches of instruments being produced at the time. In the earlier years at Gibson,
guitars were normally built in batches of 40 instruments. Gibson's Factory Order Numbers were an
internal coding that followed the group of instruments through the factory.
Thus, the older Gibson guitars may have a serial number and a F O N.
The F O N may indicate the year, batch number, and the ranking
(order of production within the batch of 40).
This system is useful in helping to date and authenticate instruments.
There are three separate groupings of numbers that have been identified and are used for their accuracy.
The numbers are usually stamped or written on the instrument's back and seen through
the lower F hole or round soundhole, or maybe impressed on the back of the headstock.
1908-1923 Approximate #s
YEAR F O N
1908 259
1909 309
1910 545, 927
1911 1260, 1295
1912 1408, 1593
1913 1811, 1902
1914 1936, 2152
1915 2209, 3207
1916 2667, 3508
1917 3246, 11010
1918 9839, 11159
1919 11146, 11212
1920 11329, 11367
1921 11375, 11527
1922 11565, 11729
1923 11973
F O Ns for the years 1935-1941 usually consisted of the batch number,
a letter for the year and the instrument number. Examples are as follows:
722 A 23
465 D 58
863 E 02.
Code Letter and Year
A 1935
B 1936
C 1937
D 1938
E 1939
F 1940
G 1941
Code Letter F O Ns were discontinued after 1941, and any instruments made during or right after
World War II do not bear an F O N codes. In 1949, a four digit F O N was used, but not in conjunction
with any code letter indicating the year.
From 1952-1961, the F O N scheme followed the pattern of a letter, the batch number
and an instrument ranking number (when the guitar was built in the run of 40).
The F O N is the only identification number on Gibson's lower grade models
(like the ES-125, ES-140, J-160E, etc.) which do not feature a paper label.
Higher grade models (such as the Super 400, L-5, J-200, etc.) feature both a serial number and a F O N.
When both numbers are present on a higher grade model, remember that the
F O N was assigned at the beginning of the production run, while the serial number
was recorded later (before shipping). The serial number would properly indicate the actual
date of the guitar. F O N examples run thus:
Y 2230 21
V 4867 8
R 6785 15
Code Letter and Year
Z 1952
Y 1953
X 1954
W 1955
V 1956
U 1957
T 1958
S 1959
R 1960
Q 1961
After 1961 the use of FONs was discontinued at Gibson.
There are still some variances that Gibson uses on some instruments produced today,
but for the most part the above can be used for identifying instruments.
For the most accurate identification you would need to contact the Gibson Guitar Corporation itself.
NOTE: Almost Music will not be held responsible for errors in dating records or the charts
we made to help you find the year your guitar was made.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is an page from the Gibson Musical Instruments site.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Search and ye shall find serial numbers and more
Today gibson.com debuts new ways to self-search for serial numbers and identify instruments.
First, you may download a definitive resource for your instrument research.
That will assist you in getting the exact information you need right away.
If you still have questions then contact Customer Support
by email .
Finally, you may call toll-free 24/7 at 1-800-4GIBSON.
Please Note: The Customer Support representatives don't appraise your
instruments over the telephone or quote market value. Other excellent sources
with greater market expertise for that kind of information are your authorized Gibson Dealers.
Click here to find your nearest
authorized dealer and then consult them. You can also contact the publishers of the authoritative
Blue Book of Guitars for appraisal information. Our previous serial number and guitar identification search mechanism was automated.
That is, you didn't talk to anyone but entered a serial number or answered either/or and yes/no
questions based upon your answers to a few questions. Simple but not always satisfying as new
information became available or as new questions came to the minds of our users.
Now, you can download various files provided by the comprehensive,
authoritative Blue Book of Guitars .
Their new Sixth Editions include a volume for electrics and one for acoustics.
These are the very same sources our Customer Support representatives use to help
Gibson and Epiphone players worldwide. Now you can read and research your questions
in the proverbial sanctity of your own home or office. Our new search site
even provides a link to download
Adobe Acrobat Reader
enabling you to download, read, and print the relevant files.
Here's a list of the files you can download and the categories of information available:
Gibson Serial Number Information
Gibson Electric Guitar Descriptions from the Blue Book of Guitars
Gibson Acoustic Guitar Descriptions from the Blue Book of Guitars
Epiphone Serial Number Information
Epiphone Electric Guitar Descriptions from the Blue Book of Guitars
Epiphone Acoustic Guitar Descriptions from the Blue Book of Guitars
If you still have questions, we probably can not help you (just being honest) but you are welcome to email us:
Almost Music Email.
. Customer Support answers most emails within 24 hours.
Finally, call us 24/7, anytime at 1-800-4GIBSON to talk to one of our knowledgeable Customer Support representatives.
In the upcoming weeks the search site and files will be updated to include photos of many of the
instruments to aid you in identifying your instrument. As new models debut we will add those as well.
The search site also allows you to search for your nearest Gibson Musical
Instruments dealer ,
contact the nearest international distributor ,
search only the product catalogs < query-prod.htm? search www.gibson.com http:>,
or search the entire GMI site .
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please understand this: with serial numbers their is no "always" but their is "always" exceptions to every rule.
We can not guarantee that all or any of the information on this page is accurate.
NOTE: Almost Music will not be held responsible for errors in dating records or on the date charts.
This free service is provided to help you find the year your guitar was made.
Thanks to the many contributors that made this page possible.
Introduction and "What type of Gibson guitar do I have?"
Before much can be determined about a Gibson guitar, several things must be identified:
The type of guitar (flattop, archtop, solidbody, lapsteel, etc).
The exact model.
The year it was made (or approximate year/era).
Oringinality (have any of the parts been changed or modified?).
First Determine the Type of Guitar and the Model.
Sometimes there is a tag inside the guitar stating the "style" or model. Once this is known, go directly to the section about that model (listed in the blue table of contents text above). Short of that, these are the different types of Gibson guitars made, and their key identifiable features.
Acoustic Archtop Gibsons: two "f" hole style sound holes, body 3" to 4.5" thick, slightly arched top, acoustic with no pickups (but sometimes these models have bolt-on pickups added later by players).
Electric Archtop Gibsons: two "f" hole style sound holes, pickups and knobs routed into the slightly arched top, body 3" to 4.5" thick.
Electric Thinline Archtop Gibsons: two "f" hole style sound holes, pickups and knobs routed into the slightly arched top, body 1.5" to 2.5" thick (the norm is about 1.75" thick, though a few models are slightly thicker).
Electric Solid body Gibsons: body is a solid piece of wood (no soundhole cutouts) 1.5" to 2" thick, pickups and knobs routed into the top of the guitar.
Flattop Gibsons: single round sound hole under the strings, body 3.5" to 4.5" thick with a flat top, usually not electric.
Electric Lapsteel Gibson: a small solidbody guitar that is played in the lap, Hawaiian style, with a metal slide bar, pickup and knob routed into the top.
Once the type of guitar is determined, figuring out the exact model is MUCH easier! (just go to one of the above six linked webpages that describes your guitar, and compare each model specs to your guitar, until you find the one that matches).
Next Determine the Year or Approximate Year. Gibson guitars usually have a FON (Factory Order Number), a serial number, or both (but sometimes neither!). Various serial number systems were used by Gibson, and often the same serial number could be used in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. See the serial number/FON section for details. Duplicate or no serial/FON number doesn't make things easy, but there are other traits that allow the serial number to make sense (see the General Specs section for more details). Also mid to top end instruments usually have a label inside the guitar with the serial number. Guitars with no label are usually lower end instruments (or are a solidbody guitar!)
Probably the first thing when trying to determine the year on an old Gibson is whether the guitar was made "pre-WW2", during WW2, or "post-WW2". This is easy to do, as Gibson used different peghead logos for pre-WW2, "wartime", and post-WW2 (see the General Specs section for more details). Knowing the general era of the Gibson guitar will make Gibson's rather complicated serial number/FON systems less tangled.
Next Determine the Model. There are several general questions which can be asked in determining a guitar's model, once the type of guitar (flat top, arch top, etc.) has been determined:
What is the color of the top of the guitar? Common top colors include black, natural, "sunburst" (a yellow center that fades to a darker red or brown around the edges), and "cherry red" (a translucent red which shows the wood grain).
What is the color of the back of the guitar? Common back colors include translucent dark brown, translucent light brown, sunburst, cherry red, etc.
What is the body size? (measure the guitar across the top at the widest point, which is the guitar's "hips"). This is really important for all model types except solidbody electrics.
What is the style of fingerboard inlays? (dots, blocks, trapezoids, double parallelagrams, etc.)
What is the style of "Gibson" peghead logo? That is, is it white silkscreen, gold silkscreen, or pearl inlay? Also if the logo is pre-WW2, wartime, or post-WW2 (see above). Also fancier models can even have some sort of pearl inlaid decoration (a "crown" or long skinny "diamond") on the peghead just below the "Gibson" logo.
What is the style of binding? Binding is the whitish/yellowish/tortoise "band" that goes around the edges of the body. Most Gibsons have some sort of body binding. Often binding is multi-layers (white/black/white, etc). Some guitars also have binding on the neck. The more binding a guitar has, the fancier the model.
Finally Determine the Originality.
Originality of an instrument is very important. Modifications (any modifications), are a bad thing in the eyes of a collector. This will greatly influence value. Modifications can often be determined by looking at the model specs for a particular year guitar in this web page (after the approximate year is determined), and compare to your instrument.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gibson Model Collectibility.
Vintage Archtop Gibsons Collectibility.
Gibson invented the archtop guitar as we know it and has remained one of the better makers. The most collectible Gibson archtops are the larger models made from the early 1930's to 1959. The Advance (17" or wider) models from late 1934 onward are of the same construction used in today's archtops. The Lloyd Loar signed L-5's, the pre-war Super 400, and Advanced L-5 archtops are highly collectible. The pre-war cutaway L-5 and cutaway Super 400 are also known as Premier models. Non-cutaway models are not nearly as collectible as cutaway Premier models.
Cutaway archtop models made from 1946 to 1959 are also very collectible, but are not as much as the pre-war Advance Premier models. Non-cutaway post-war models are interesting but not very collectible. Archtop cutaway models made from 1960 to 1969 are also very good instruments, but are not nearly as collectible as the pre-1960 models and are more utility instruments.
Vintage Flattop Gibson Collectibility.
Gibson began to develop professional quality flat top instrument in the 1930's. Many concepts were stolen from Martin, which was the company that invented features such as X-braced tops and large dreadnought body sizes. Gibson then modified Martin's designs and developed its own improvements including adjustable truss rods, adjustable saddle(s), and super jumbo body shapes. Although workmanship on pre-war Gibsons is not as high as pre-war Martins, Gibson flat tops are well designed and constructed so they have excellent tone. Many player (including me) prefer Gibsons of this period to all other flat tops.
Flat tops of the 1940's and 1950's are also excellent instruments. Since they are much more common, they are also easier and less expensive to obtain.
Gibson flat tops of the 1960's and 1970's seem to be inferior in tone and construction to the same models of the 1950's. This is generally blamed on adjustable bridges that were standard on all models in the 1960's. Also the end of "sloped" shoulder body styles helped alienate players and collector alike.
Vintage Electric Arch top Gibson Collectibility.
Pre-war Gibson electric arch tops are excellent instruments. Since pre-war models are early in the evolution of the electric guitar, they are historically important. The ES-150 and ES-250, both used by Charlie Christian, are very collectible pre-war instruments.
Postwar full depth, non-cutaway models were generally designed as student models and are not very valuable. Post-war Gison electric archtops with cutaways from the 1950's are considered to be excellent and collectible. The deluxe models, such as the L-5CES, Super 400CES from the 1950's are very collectible. The laminated body models, such as the ES-5, ES-350, ES-175 and ES-295 are not worth as much as the solid wood model, but are valuable.
Vintage Electric Thinline Archtop Gibson Collectibility.
There are two styles of Thinline Gibson models. First is the "fully hollowbody" style. These thinline, fully hollow, models are somewhat collectible. The single cutaway Byrdland (a short scale, thin body L-5CES) is excellent in quality, but its short scale length and narrow neck makes it less collectible. The single cutaway ES-350T (a plainer version of the Byrdland), having the same problems, also has limited collectibility mostly due to its scale length. Fully hollow thinlines such as the double cutaway ES-330 never had the appeal or utility of the semi-hollow counterparts such as the ES-335.
Thinline, semi-hollow electrics from 1958 to 1964 are very cool and wanted by players and collectors. The ES-335, which had the lowest list price of the ES-335/ ES-345/ ES-355 group, is considered to be the most collectible (even though it is the plainest). The Varitone/Stereo system of the ES-345/ES-355 is less desirable than the simple ES-335 design. Also, the stop tailpiece setup of the ES-335 is more collectible than the vibrato or trapeze tailpiece systems.
Vintage Electric Solid body Gibson Collectibility.
The Les Paul models from the 1950's along with the Korina Flying V and Explorer are some of the most collectible solidbody production guitars. Les Paul models with Humbucking pickups from the 1950's are the most desired, with the P-90 pickup models selling for significantly less money. Original series Firebirds with full reverse bodies are also very collectible. Other solidbody gibson may have some appeal, but not to the extent of the previously mentioned models.
Vintage Double neck Gibson Collectibility.
Double neck models with carved spruce tops are different than any other Gibson design. Because of this they are collectible. Solidbody double neck SG style guitars are not nearly as desirable, though popularized by bands such as Led Zeppelin in the 1970s.
Vintage Gibson Electric Bass Collectibility.
Generally speaking, Gibson doesn't have much of a reputation as an electric bass maker. Though the first electric Gibson bass introduced in 1953 (known as the EB-1) is interesting, it's not desirable to the player. The late fifties EB-2 and EB-6 are also interesting, but don't appeal widely to players. Likewise the Thunderbird II and IV basses are nice companions to the Firebird guitars, but again don't appeal to players. Because of this, the collectibility of Gibson basses is somewhat limited, especially when compared to Fender electric basses.
Vintage Gibosn Ukulele Collectibility.
Gibson ukes, though not as collectible as Martin ukes, has a certain charm. Although I do not list Gibson uke models here, please email me if you have a Gibson uke you are interested in selling.
Vintage Gibson LapSteel Collectibility.
Although lapsteels are considered student model instruments, pre-war models are interesting. This is because they are early examples in the evolution of the electric guitar. Today, the pedal steel has made the lapsteel obsolete.
Vintage Mandolins by Gibson:
Gibson mandolins are the standard of the industry. The original 1902 series made by Orville Gibson generally don't sound that good, but are interesting historically. Mandolins from 1904 to 1909 have a better design, but still lack sound. The high end models from 1910 to 1922 are excellent utility mandolins. The F-5 design of the mid 1920's is considered to be high point of mandolin design, and the mandolin by which all others are judged. By the late 1920's, the mandolin boom had pasted and demand feel. Because demand was low, so was production. Hence mandolins from the 1930's are somewhat rare. Until the mandolin became popular in country music after WWII, demand and production for mandolins stayed low.
Contact the vintage guitar info guy.
Back to the Table of Contents
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- General Vintage Gibson Specs
Pegheads
"Snakehead" peghead, narrows towards top: 1923-1934. Discontinued all models except L-5 by 1927. Discontinued L-5 1934.
Fiber peghead veneer replaces "Holly" wood veneer: 1970 to present. Also "Made in U.S.A." impressed in back of peghead or on decal.
Peghead angle is 17 degrees: 1904-1966.
Peghead angle is 14 degrees: 1966-1973.
Peghead angle is 17 degrees: 1973-present.
"Volute" on back of peghead (most models): 1969 to 1981.
Thickness of peghead uniform: 1955-present. Prior to 1955 peghead narrows in thickness towards top.
Fingerboard Woods
Fingerboards, bridges and other parts made from rosewood are all the Brazilian variety till 1966. Starting in 1966, Gibson changed to Indian rosewood.
Left: Pre-WW2 pearl script logo. Note no letters drop below the other letters.
Middle: Post-WW2 pearl 1948-1951 style logo with connecting dot. The "G" and the "n" drop below the other letters, and the open "b" and open "o" (open at the top of the letters) were used in their pearl logos until 1969.
Right: "Pantograph" logo used from 1969 to 1984. Note the closed "b" and "o".
Peghead Logos
Pre-war Gibson script logo used before 1948. No letters drops below the other letters.
Pre-war Script Gibson logo, Pearl or White.
"The Gibson" slanted or straight (depends on model): 1908-1929.
"The Gibson" straight: 1933-1934.
"Gibson" logo transition (without "The"), varies by model: 1928-1934.
Pearl inlaid, high-end models: 1933-1948
White silkscreen, low-end models: 1928-1943.
Thicker "Gibson" on Super 400 and other high-end models: mid 1930's.
Thicker "Gibson" all models: late 1930's.
Left: Gold post-war logo on a Les Paul Junior. The "i" dot
was always attached on all of these post-war gold logos.
Middle: Pearl post-war logo with detached "i" dot on a
1957 Les Paul. This style logo with detached "i" dot was used
from 1951 to 1969, and again from 1985 to present.
Right: War-time gold script "only a Gibson is Good Enough"
logo on a Southern Jumbo, as used from 1943 to 1945.
Gold Script Gibson logo.
All models made during WW2.
Low-end models: 1943-1947
"Only a Gibson is Good Enough" gold banner logo: 1943-1945
Post-war block Gibson logo, Pearl or Gold.
"Post-war" Gibson block logo used 1948-present. The post-war logo has the "G" and the "N" with a tail that drops below the other letters.
Gold logo: silkscreened 1947-1954
Gold logo: decal 1954-present
Pearl logo: open "b" and "o": 1948-1969
Pearl logo: "pantograph" style, closed "b" and "o": 1969-1984
Pearl logo: open "b" and "o": 1984-present
Pearl logo: Dot on "i" connected to "G": 1948-1951
Pearl logo: Dot on "i" free from "G": 1951-present
Finish.
Gibson always used nitrocellulose lacquer for all instruments from the 1910's to present. The standard colors for most instruments was Sunburst, Natural, black, white, cherry red, (Les Paul) TV yellow, or (Les Paul) gold. Some other special order custom colors were available.
A faded sunburst on a 1959 Les Paul Standard.
With the pickguard removed we can see how much
brighter the original red was in the sunburst
under the pickguard. This is particularly noticable
by the neck pickup pickguard attachment point.
During the late 1950's, the red ainline used in their sunburst finishes often faded. This problem was fixed by mid-1960, though sometimes you see it on later 1960's models.
Left: Oval white label as used from spring 1947 to January 1955.
Right: Orange label as used from January 1955 to 1964. The 1964 to 1969 orange labels are identical, except for the added text "union made". Note the faint ink stamp along the bottom of the label denoting "STEREO VARITONE". Left: Orange "union made" label as used from 1964 to 1969. Note the "union made" designation to the left of the "Gibson" insignia. When Gibson was bought by Norlin in 1969, thousands of these labels were discarded (and replaced with white and purple "Norlin" labels). These blank unused labels were snatched up by many guitar dealers, and are still available today. Rigth: White label used from 1908 to 1932. This particular label is from a 1929 L-4 model.
Seen through this f-hole is
the "Norlin" white rectangle
label (with purple and black
triangles), used from 1970
to 1984.
Labels (hollowbody models only).
Rectangular label, no serial number or model name on label, photo of Orville Gibson and lyre-mandolin on label, date sometimes penciled under top: 1902 to 1904.
Oval label with serial number, no model name, photo of Orville Gibson and lyre-mandolin: 1904 to 1909.
White label with number and model name, number range 0100 to 99999. Hand ink or penciled (some overlap with previous style): 1908 to 1932.
White label with number and model name Ink stamped: 1932 to 1947.
White oval label with number preceded by "A-": spring 1947 to January 1955. The first number, A-100, was assigned to an L-7 on 4/28/47. The last white label number was A-18750, used 1/12/55. Note white label numbers A-18751 to A-20000 were not used.
Orange oval label with number preceded by an "A": Jan 1955 to 1961. The first orange label number, A20001, was used on a F-5 mandolin 01/13/55. The last orange label "A" number was A36147, used 2/21/61. Note the "-" after the "A" was dropped for the orange labels.
Orange oval label with number matching number on back of headstock (number range 100 to 999999): 1961 to 1969.
"Union Made" added to orange label: 1964 to 1969 (intermixed).
White rectangle "Norlin" label with black and purple triangles: 1970 to 1984.
Electric Archtop Bodies.
Tops: Before WW2, tops on electric archtops are solid spruce. After WW2, all models except the L-5CES, Byrdland, Super 400CES and floating pickup models (like the Johnny Smith) are laminated maple tops to prevent feedback. Back and Sides: Before WW2, back and sides are solid maple. After WW2, all models except the L-5CES, Byrdland, Super 400CES use laminated maple. From 1960 to 1969, all models including the above use laminated maple back and sides.
1970's style neck with a volute.
Also note the "made in USA" stamp.
Neck Shape (Spanish models).
Pre-WW2: Prior to WW2, many models have a distinctive "V" shape.
WW2-1959: Known as "baseball bats" due to the large back size. The 1959 necks are considered the best of this era; large and comfortable without being huge.
1960-1962: Thin neck back shape, even compared to today's standards these necks don't have much wood behind the fingerboard and feel very thin.
1963-1964: Larger neck shape, but still smaller than the 1950's "baseball bat" style.
1965-1967: Most models have nut width dramatically reduced making the neck feel very small. Back shape is about the same as the 1963-1964 era, but the narrow nut width makes these necks feel like "pencil necks".
1968-present: Nut width increased and back shape changed to 1963-1964 standards.
1970: Volute added to back of neck behind the nut.
Bridge, flat top models.
2 pearl dots on bridge: early 1940's-1960's.
Retangular bridge, most models: WW2.
Martin-type belly bridge, some banner-logo examples: WW2.
Upper belly bridge (above bridge pins): early 1950's-1969.
Plastic bridge, most models below SJ: 1963-1964.
Indian Rosewood used instead of Brazilian: 1966.
Lower belly bridge (below bridge pins): 1969-1984.
Upper belly bridge (above bridge pins): 1984-present.
Adjustable bridge saddle:
J-160e (from introduction): 1954-1970.
Option on J-45, J-50, SJ: 1956-1960.
Standard on most models: 1961-1970.
Left: wrap-around "uncompensated" smooth stud bridge/tailpiece unit on a 1960 Les Paul TV Special (note the black covered P-90 "soapbar" pickup). This style bridge/tailpiece was used from 1953 to 1961. In 1961, it changed to a "compensated" style unit with "stairsteps" for each string.
Right: tunematic bridge ("no wire") and stop tailpiece on a 1957 goldtop Les Paul (note the partial shown white covered P-90 "soapbar" pickup at the bottom of the picture). Tunematic bridges started showing up on many Gibson models in 1955.
Bridge/tailpiece, Solidbody and Electric Archtop models.
1952: "Les Paul" stamped trapeze tailpiece. Used on some models (ES-225 and ES-295) until 1958.
1953: Wrap around stud bridge/tailpiece combination unit used on only solidbody models. Used until the 1970's on some models including the SG Junior. 1955: nickel plated Tunematic bridge ("no wire", stamped underneath "ABR-1", metal saddles) and nickel plated stop tailpiece. All mid to upper line solidbody models are converted to this set up. Many electric archtop models also converted to the tunematic bridge. Only the Les Paul Junior and Special (and later Melody Maker) continue to use the previous wraparound stud tailpiece. 1961: Stud wraparound tailpiece unit (as used only on the lower-end models like the SG Junior at this point) now have compensated "stair steps" cast into the unit. 1962: Tunematic bridge "with wire" (still stamped "ABR-1" on bottom). The wire goes over the six saddle screw heads to prevent the saddles from popping out during string changes. 1964: Tunematic bridge uses white nylon saddles
1965: Tunematic bridge now chrome plated, no longer stamped "ABR-1" on bottom (replaced by casted patent number). Stop tailpiece now chrome plated too, and replaced on many models (like the ES-335) with a trapeze tailpiece. 1966: Metal saddles replace the nylon saddles on the tunematic bridge.
Two early "P.A.F." humbucking pickups (with brass
bobbin mounting screws), and the bottom side of a
pre-1965 "ABR-1" tunematic bridge.
Left: Top to bottom: P-90 pickup, Alino pickup,
Humbucking pickup, "double white" humbucking
pickup (with metal cover removed).
Right: P-90 pickup (top) and a P.A.F. humbucking
pickup with a nickel plated cover (bottom).
Pickups.
"Charlie Christian" pickup. Single coil black pickup with a blade, V-ends, white binding around the blade and/or outside, large magnets (not visible), 3 mounting screws thru the top of the guitar: 1935-1940
Diagonal mounted single coil pickup. Two variations, one almost 6" long extending diagonally from the bridge to almost the neck, the other shorter and more conventional looking and mounted at less of an angle. Both seen on ES-300 model: 1940-1942
Finger rest pickup system: First cataloged as a "conversion" pickup. Volume and tone controls and pickup integrated into the pickguard. Available with 1 or 2 pickups. Also known as the "McCarty" pickup system. Available for acoustic archtops such as the L-7, L-5 and Super 400: 1948-1971
Fixed pole P-90 pickup. Non-adjustable pole P-90 pickup, single coil, 6 magnet slugs down center, black "dog ear" pickup cover: 1946-1950
P-90 pickup. Same as fixed pole P-90, except now has adjustable slot-head poles: 1950-present
"Soapbar" P-90 pickup, same as above, but pickup cover has no "ears": 1952-present
Alnico V pickup. Looks like a P-90 soapbar pickup, except has "staple" poles with adjusting screws next to the poles. Used on upper line models: 1954-1957.
Top: A late 1959 "P.A.F." humbucking pickup
bottom showing its "Patent Applied For" decal
and its steel mounting screws.
Bottom: A mid-1960's "Patent No." pickup
bottom showing its patent number decal.
Humbucking pickup. two internal coils below a 1.5" x 2.75" metal cover. One row of 6 adjustable slot-head poles off-center: 1957-present. Cover was gold, nickel or (after 1965) chrome plated. Prior to about mid-1962, have small decal on bottom stating "Patent Applied For". These are known as "P.A.F." pickups. Starting in about mid-1962 to early 1963, a "Patent No." decal replaces the P.A.F. decal. Most 1957 humbucking pickups (first year) have no decal, and a more squarish stainless steel cover. Also 1957 to early 1959 P.A.F. pickups have brass screws holding the plastic bobbins to the metal frame. The internal plastic coil bobbins are usually black plastic, but sometimes they are white (this happened mostly in 1959 or early 1960). You can see the color of the wire bobbins by removing the small underside mounting screw (instead of removing the pickup cover). More information and pictures of PAF pickups can be seen here. The pointed pickguard used on
most Gibson flattops from 1955
to the 1970's. Note this 1955
Southern Jumbo's "double
parallelagram" fingerboard inlays
and the "belly up" style bridge
(opposed to Martin's bridges which
had a belly down towards the endpin).
Pickguards.
Most Gibson pickguards prior to the mid-1970's were made from celluloid. This material can deteriote with time (the tortoise colored pickguards especially exhibit this trait).
Flattop pickguards: from the 1930's to 1955, Gibson flattop pickguards were usually "teardrop" in shaped. But in early 1955, most models changed to a "pointed" pickguard that followed the shape of the guitar (except for the point). The J-200 was an exception to this rule; it's pickguard stayed the same shape, but the material and the designed changed. Prior to 1955, the J-200 has an engraved celluloid pickguard. Starting in 1955, this changed to an injection molded styrene pickguard that was cheaper to make. Pickguard Bevels: on Gibsons that used a solid black pickguard, the material was a layered black/white/black/white/black design. The edges were cut beveled to make them look like they had binding. In 1966, the bevel changed from being very wide and flat, to a narrow and steeper cut.
Top row: on the left is the first Gibson electric knob as used on ES model guitars from 1947 to early 1950 (no numbers). Next to it is the ugliest pre-1970 Gibson knob, known as the "amp" knob, used from late 1966 to the mid-1970's (but not on all models).
Middle row, left to right: Tall numbered gold knob, used from 1950 to 1952, "speed" knob as used from 1953 to 1955, "bonnet" knob as used from 1955 to 1960, "metal top bonnet" knob or "reflector" knob as used from mid-1960 to mid-1970s (on many, but not all models).
Bottom row, left to right: switch tips used. The left switch tip was used on multiple pickup models from after WW2 to about 1960. This knob is bakelite and very amber in color. Next to it is the 1960 version where the switch tip changed to a plastic material that stayed white, and had a visible seam.
Bottom row black knobs, left to right: depending on the color of the guitar, some models starting in the early 1950's used black versions of the above gold knobs. These correspond to the same years as the above gold versions.
Knobs.
Smooth rounded top, bumps around top edge, some with arrow across top, 1 black and 1 brown: 1935-1939
Smooth top, 8 sided, arrow across top, 1 black and 1 brown: 1936-1942
Radio knob. 3 sets of ridges on sides: 1936-1942
Barrel knob. 5/8" tall, straight sides, barrel shaped, clear with no numbers: 1946-1949
Barrel knob. 5/8" tall, straight sides, barrel shaped, back painted gold, clear with numbers 1 to 10 visible thru knob: 1949-1952
Speed knob. 1/2" tall, straight sides, barrel shaped, back painted gold or black, clear with numbers 1 to 10 visible thru knob: 1953-1955
Bonnet knob. Looks like a hat box, flared base, back painted gold or black, clear with numbers 1 to 10 visible thru knob: 1955 to mid-1960 Bonnet knob with metal cap ("reflector" knobs): Used from mid-1960 to mid-1970s. Similar to bonnet knob but now has metal cap with "Volume" or "Tone" printed in black on the metal cap. There are two styles of this knob. First was used from mid-1960 to the end of 1961, and have a shallow post hole (as viewed from the side). The 1962 and later relector knob has a deeper post hole (the bottom of the post hole comes much closer to the metal cap). Also the reflector on these knobs can be silver or gold. Guitars with nickel or chrome hardware should have silver caps. Guitars with gold hardware should have gold caps (though often the gold does wear off).
Barrel knob. similar to bonnet knobs, but now shaped like a barrel with no metal cap. Back painted gold or black, clear with numbers 1 to 10 visible thru knob: 1968 to present. Note this knob was used primarily on 1968 Les Paul Custom models till the mid 1970's, when most other models got these knobs.
Amp knobs. Black knobs with white numbers 1 to 10. Looks like "blackface" Fender amp knobs: late 1966 - mid 1970's. Some models never got these knobs (such as the 1968 and later Les Pauls). Used mostly on the hollowbody and semi-hollow models, such as the ES series.
Switch Tips: on guitars with two pickups and a 3-way selector switch, Gibson used an amber-colored bakelite switch tip during the 1950's. Starting in mid-1960, they switched to a much whiter and slightly rounder tip plastic switch tip.
Left: 1955 to 1960 bonnet knob.
Middle: mid-1960 to 1961 "reflector" knob.
Right: 1962 to mid-1970s "reflector" knob. picture by t.witrock.
Metal Hardware.
Prior to 1965, all metal hardware is either nickel or gold plated. Starting in 1965, all hardware is either chrome or gold plated.
Left: "3 on a plate" style Kluson tuners, as used on the lower-line Gibson models.
Right: Kluson Deluxe "tulip" tuners on a 1957 Les Paul. Note this is the "single ring, single line" variety used from 1955 to 1961. The "single ring" refers to the single ring around the plastic button. The "single line" refers to the single line of vertical text saying "Kluson Deluxe". Note the "inked on" serial number.
Tuners.
During the 1950's and 1960's, Gibson used Kluson tuners almost exclusively. There were some exceptions; starting in 1959 you could special order Grover tuners instead of Klusons on many mid to upper line models including the Les Paul Custom and J-200 models. By the late 1960's, Gibson starting using tuners with the "Gibson Deluxe" name on them, but these were actually made by Kluson.
Kluson Deluxe Tuner specs (models including 3-on-a-plate and "tulip" designs):
1947: "Kluson Deluxe" in a single vertical line on the ribbed metal tuner cover. "Pat Pend" stamped on the bottom edge of the cover, and NO outside hole on the ribbed metal cover for the tuner post. Tulip plastic tuners knobs have a single ring around them.
1951: "No name" Kluson tuners with no vertical name marking. "Pat Pend" stamp is gone, and now there is an outside hole in the ribbed metal tuner cover to help support the tuner shaft. Tulip plastic tuners knobs have a single ring around them. 1955: Single line "Kluson Deluxe" in a single vertical line on the ribbed metal tuner cover. Tulip plastic tuners knobs have a single ring around them. 1961: Two plastic rings on the plastic "tulip" tuner knob. "Kluson Deluxe" still in a single vertical row.
1964: "Kluson Deluxe" in TWO vertical lines on the ribbed metal tuner cover.
1968: "Gibson Deluxe" replaces the stamp "Kluson Deluxe".
PegHead Markings other than Serial Numbers ("seconds")
Gibson often marked inferior quality guitars as "seconds", and sold them at a discount to dealers or employees. These markings were stamped into the wood on the back of the peghead. A "2" stamp is sometimes seen, designating a "second", which had some cosmetic flaw. If there is a serial number on the back of the peghead, the "2" is usually seen centered above or below it. Also sometimes stamped was "CULL", which is another designation of a second. Again, this stamp is seen on the back of the peghead. The worse Gibson reject is the "BGN" stamp, designating that instrument as a "bargin" guitar. These were only sold to employees at substantial discounts. This stamp is also seen on the back of the peghead. Sometimes the "BGN" is stamped vertically with the "N" below the "G" which is below the "B". BGN instruments weren't acceptable to Gibson as sellable to the public.
All second instruments are usually worth less than the same guitar that is not a second (given condition as the same). BGN instruments are worth less than a second instrument because these tend to have some fairly serious cosmetic flaw.
A war-time Southern Jumbo that was
exported to Canada. Note the faint
"MADE IN THE U.S.A." stamp.
Exported instruments to Canada or overseas prior to 1970 where often marked "MADE IN THE U.S.A." in very small lettering and all on one line. Note this is a different stamp than the one used from 1970 and later that said "MADE IN U.S.A." on two lines, with no "the" and in same size type as the stamp-on serial number. This is sometimes stamped on the back of the peghead (where a serial number would be on 1961 and later Gibsons). Also it's sometimes seen on the top edge of the peghead.
An ES-125tc from the 1960's,
as seen through the bass side
"f" hole.
Model Body Markings (non-Artist models).
After WW2, lower-line Gibson vintage instruments did not have a label to designate the model. Instead, Gibson just ink stamped the model number inside (on hollow body instruments). If the instrument had "f" holes, this number was ink stamped in the bass side "f" hole on the inside back of the instrument. If the instrument was a flat top guitar, this number was ink stamped inside the round soundhole on the inside back of the guitar.
Gibson Cases
Mid to high-end model guitars during the 1930's and early 1940's used a black case with a red line around the top edge of the case. The inside is a deep maroon color. Lower models used black rigid cardboard cases. About 1938, mid to high end model started to use a tweed case with a 3 inch wide red "racing stripe" on the tweed. The inside of these cases are also usually a deep maroon. These tweed cases were used up to WW2.
Post-WW2 (1947-1960), Gibson offered 3 different cases. The "low grade" case was an "alligator" softshell case, essentially made of rigid cardboard with a sparse brown lining. This case also often had a hard thin brown plastic handle that cracked very easily. The "medium grade" case was a wooden case with a smooth brown outside and usually a sparse green lining (though different color interiors are seen). The "best grade" (known as the "faultless" case) was the "California Girl" case, as it is known. This wooden case has a rich brown outside (like a tanned California girl), and a very plush and rich pink inside. The handle on the medium and high grade cases was leather covered metal.
Note some models (such as the Les Paul) did not have a medium grade case available (either got the 'gator case or the Cal Girl case; but the most desirable Les Paul Cal Girl case is the model with a curved top and *five* latches, instead of the normal four). Most 1950's Gibson cases had a small (1.5" by 1") brass plaque on the outside with "Gibson" and a star stamped in it. This was located on the side of the case by the handle. Note during this period there where three different manufacturers making cases for Gibson, all with the same basic specs, but slightly different shapes (Lifton, Geib, Stone). Geib cases are seen mostly in the early 1950's, and Lifton cases in the mid to late 1950's. Stone cases are seen throughout the 1950's, but not to the extent of the other two manufacturers.
During the 1960's, the Alligator case was still available for low-end models (SG Juniors, Melody Makers, ES-125, etc.) until 1965. The new low-end case was a black softshell with a plush deep red lining. The medium grade case was dropped entirely and the new high grade case was black on the outside, and yellow on the inside. The black outside changed from smooth to rough during different periods of the 1960's. Also the handle changed from a leather covered metal to a hard molded plastic type about 1963. The small brass Gibson plaque was still used until the later 1960's. In the 1970's, the new high-end case was still a wooden case with a black outside, but a deep red inside. Most 1970's cases had "Gibson" silkscreened on the outside of the case in white. Also made during the 1970's is the "protector" case; a huge thing made completely out of molded plastic. This case was very popular for Les Pauls.
A picture of a mid-1950's Les Paul brown case is here. This is not the most desirable of the Les Paul brown cases, as it has a flat top and four latches (typically this style of brown case was sold with Les Paul Specials and Juniors). Starting about mid to late 1958, the brown Les Paul case changed to a five latch model. This is considered the "Sunburst" case (even though most 1958 models still use the older four latch case).
Late 1980's and 1990's reissue cases are copies of the 1950's brown/pink Cal Girl case. These newer cases have a tag on the inside pick pocket that says "Made in Canada". Also, these cases have a pink interior satin cover that goes over the top of the guitar before closing the case. And they also have a combination lock on the main exterior latch and a leather handle. There were also some early 1980's brown reissue cases (mostly for Les Pauls and Korina reissues) that are starker versions of the Canadian reissue case. Most recently Gibson has copied the original 1950's Cal Girl case more exactly on their "historic" series reissues.
Contact the vintage guitar info guy.
Back to the Table of Contents
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gibson Serial Numbers and Factory Order Numbers (How to Find the Year).
The easiest way to find the year of a particular Gibson instrument is usually by referencing the instrument's serial number of factory order number. This following information applies to all Gibson instruments including guitars, mandolins, lapsteels, basses and others. This information was compiled from these sources: A.R. Duchossior, W. Carter, G. Gruhn, E. Whitford, D. Vinopal, D. Erlewine.
From 1902 to 1976, Gibson instruments may have a serial number, a FON (Factory Order Number or code letter), both, or neither. To make things even more interesting, they sometimes wrote the serial number or factory order number with a near-invisible pencil, sometimes ink-stamped it (in disappearing ink it seems), and sometimes pressed it into the wood. And the placement of these serial numbers and FON's (factory order numbers) can be different, depending on the era. Gibson serial number consistency was never given much thought, as Gibson changed serial number system many times. Hence, some serial numbers may be duplicated in different years. This is especially noticable during the 1960's.
Many people ask, "How can I tell the difference between a serial number and a factory order number?". Sometimes this is difficult, but you have to look at the format of the number, and the general era of the instrument. Does it have a pre-WW2 script "Gibson" logo? If so, then just look at the pre-WW2 serial number and factory order number info. This would be the single biggest question to ask, as pre-WW2 and post-WW2 instruments are numbered quite differently. Also, examine the placement and style of the numbers and make sure it follows the schemes described.
Another question asked is, "The FON number says the instrument is 1958, yet the serial number says 1959; why are they different?". There is a very logical reason for this. The FON number is stamped on the instrument very early in the manufacturing process. Most times, the serial number is applied as one of the last steps (especially on pre-1961 hollow body instruments) when the instrument is nearly finished. Depending on the demand for the instrument, it could take Gibson up to 6 months to finish the instrument. Hence the FON number could be one year, and the serial number the next year.
It wasn't till 1977 that Gibson came up with a good serial number system that will last them indefinately. This new serial number system allows determination of the exact date the instrument was stamped with the serial number, and the factory of manufacturer. Quick Overview: Serial Number/FON Identification by Era.
1902-1908: Often no serial number or model name on label, picture of Orville Gibson and lyre mandolin, date sometimes penciled under the top (must be seen with a mirror). Or serial number and model name on white paper label, number range from 0100 to 99999, hand inked or penciled 1908 to 1932, ink stamped serial number 1932 to 1947.
1908-1930: Factory Order Numbers stamped on neck block inside body.
1927-mid 1930s: Some low end models with no numbers. Some models with an ink stamped 3 digit number on neck block.
1935-1941: Factory Order Numbers and Letter Codes, containing the letters A to G, ink stamped on the inside back or on the neck block (flattops), or on the label.
1938-1941: Factory Order Numbers beginning with the letter D to H pressed into the back of the peghead.

1942-1947: Factory Order Numbers with 3 or 4 digits, followed by a hyphen, followed by 1 or 2 more digits, ink stamped on neck block (flattops) or on the inside back,
1947-1952: Factory Order Numbers of 3 or 4 digits, followed by a hyphen, followed by by 1 or 2 more digits, ink stamped on the inside back.
1952-1961: Factory Order Numbers beginning with the letter Q to Z, ink stamped on inside back, all hollowbody models.
1947-early 1955: "A" series serial numbers on a white label, on many models.
early 1955-1961: "A" series serial numbers on a orange label, on many models.
1953-1961: Unique solidbody electric guitar "inked" serial numbers.
1961-1969: 4,5 or 6 digit peghead stamped serial number for all models, no MADE IN USA stamped below.
1969-1975: 6 digit peghead stamped serial number, MADE IN USA stamped below.
1975-1977: tagged (decal) serial number, MADE IN USA below.
1977-present: 8 digit stamped serial number, MADE IN USA stamped below.
1982-present: Reissue and custom shop serial numbers in various formats.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Factory Order Numbers
Factory Order Number Configuration and Placement.
1908-1930: Factory Order Numbers stamped on neck block inside body.
1927-mid 1930s: Some low end models with no numbers. Some models with an ink stamped 3 digit number on neck block.
1935-1941: Factory Order Numbers and Letter Codes, containing the letters A to G, ink stamped on the inside back or on the neck block (flattops), or on the label.
1938-1941: Factory Order Numbers beginning with the letter D to H pressed into the back of the peghead.
1942-1947: Factory Order Numbers with 3 or 4 digits, followed by a hyphen, followed by 1 or 2 more digits, ink stamped on neck block (flattops) or on the inside back,
1947-1952: Factory Order Numbers of 3 or 4 digits, followed by a hyphen, followed by by 1 or 2 more digits, ink stamped on the inside back.
1952-1961: Factory Order Numbers beginning with the letter Q to Z, ink stamped on inside back, all hollowbody models.
Factory Order Numbers, 1908 to 1923.
The Factory Order Number (FON) consists of a 3, 4 or 5 digit batch number followed by a 1 or 2 digit sequence number (from 1 to 40). The following are examples (compiled by Roger Siminoff) of the batch number portion of the FON. Sorry, I do not have a range of FON's numbers for this era.
Year Batch Number ---- ------------ 1908 259
1909 309
1910 545, 927
1911 1260, 1295
1912 1408, 1593
1913 1811, 1902
1914 1936, 2152
1915 2209, 3207
1916 2667, 3508
1917 3246, 11010
1918 9839, 11159
1919 11146, 11212
1920 11329, 11367
1921 11375, 11527
1922 11565, 11729
1923 11973
Factory Order Numbers with a Letter, 1935 to 1941.
Many instruments from 1935 to 1941 have a letter designating the year within the Factory Order Number (FON).
The FON consists of a batch number, usually 4 digits. Then there is a letter (and sometimes a space), followed by a 1 or 2 digit sequence (ranking) number.
1935-1937: Letter is between the batch number and the sequence number. Code is ink stamped on the inside back.
1938-1941: two or three letters before sequence number. Code is either ink stamped onto the label or impressed into the back of the peghead (for lap steels, impressed into the back of the body). First letter, indicates the year. Second letter, if there is one, indicates the brand of the instrument: G=Gibson, K=Kalamazoo, W=Recording King (Montgomery Wards). Third letter, if there is one, is "E" for Electric.
Exceptions: Some high-end models and lapsteels from 1939 to 1940 have the letter A added to the prefixes D, E, or F. This includes the letters DA, EA, FA, followed by 4 digits. Examples include L-5's and Super 400's which have an EA prefix (suggestiong 1939), in addition to a separate paper label indicating 1940 or 1941. In this case the later serial number is the one to believe, as the instrument was probably started and completed in different years.
Year 1st Letter
---- ---------- 1935 A
1936 B
1937 C
1938 D, DA
1939 Ex (where 'x' is any other letter) 1940 F, FA 1941 E (with NO other following letter) 1941 G 1942 H Hyphen Factory Order Number with NO Letters, 1936 to 1943. Pre-WW2 hyphen Factory Order Numbers are used mostly on lap steels. The format consists of a three or four digit number, a hyphen, then a one or two digit batch number. Only the first number (before the hyphen) determines the year. 1st Number range Year ----------------- ---- 200-xx to 399-xx 1937 400-xx to 599-xx 1936, 1937 500-xx to 599-xx 1936 to 1938 600-xx to 799-xx 1936, 1938 800-xx to 999-xx 1936 1000-xx to 1599-xx 1937 1600-xx to 2999-xx 1938 to 1940 3000-xx to 5999-xx 1941 6000-xx to 6999-xx 1942 7000-xx to 7999-xx 1943 The FON ink stamped on the neck block of a banner logo 1944 J-45. Note the red pencil mark after the FON is missing or has faded. Factory Order Numbers, 1942 to 1951. Serial numbers are seldon found on instruments made during WW2. But most (not all) have Factory Order Numbers (FON). These contain a four digit batch number stamped in ink, followed by a two digit sequence number written in red pencil (during WW2 only). After the war, the red pencil wasn't used (and on instruments made during the war, sometimes it's really hard to see the red penciled sequence number). Usually there is no more than 46 instruments (sequence numbers) per batch. Also no batch number with a "1" as the first digit was used during WW2. The FON is usually located on the neck block. The war-time list that follows are examples only, as I don't have a definative range of FON's during this period. Year Factory Order Number ---- -------------------- 1942 910-3 1942 923-45 1942 2004-1 1943 2224-14 1943 2426-39 1944 2558-46 1945 n/a 1946 n/a 1947 700s to 1000s 1948 1100s to 3700s 1949 2000s 1950 3000s to 5000s 1951 6000s to 9000s Factory order number on a 1959 EB-2 Bass, in the treble side "f" hole. The "S" prefix denotes 1959. Factory Order Numbers with a Letter, 1952 to 1961. This letter preceeds the batch number within the Factory Order Number (FON), and denotes the year of manufacturer. Remember, the batch number is the first 4 digits of the FON, followed by a 1 or 2 digit sequence number (within the batch). This letter should be before the FON batch number. This was used on archtop models (ink stamped inside treble F-hole) and on flat top models (ink stamped on the neck block), from 1952 to 1961: Year Letter ---- ------ 1952 Z 1953 Y 1954 X 1955 W 1956 V 1957 U 1958 T 1959 S 1960 R 1961 Q -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Serial Numbers Serial Number Configuration and Placement: 1902 to 1908: Rectangular label, no serial number or model name on label, photo of Orville Gibson and lyre-mandolin on label, date sometimes penciled under top. 1904 to 1909: Oval label with serial number, no model name, photo of Orville Gibson and lyre-mandolin: 1904 to 1909. 1902 to April 1947: Number and model name on white paper label, number range 1000 to 99999: 1908 to 1932: Hand ink or penciled (some overlap with previous style): 1932 to 1947: Ink stamped, not penciled. 1927 and later: Low end models with no serial number. Hollowbody instruments 1947 to 1961: "Artist" serial numbers used on mid to upper line guitars. No serial number used on lower line instruments (date by Factory Order Number). Instruments with an "Artist" serial number should also have a Factory Order Number by which a date can be cross-referenced. Number preceded by an "A-" on white oval label: 4/28/47 to 1/12/55. The first number, A-100, was assigned to an L-7 on 4/28/47. The last white label number was A-18750, used 1/12/55. Note white label numbers A-18751 to A-20000 were not used. Number preceded by an "A" on orange oval label: 1/13/55 to 2/21/61. The first orange label number, A20001, was used on a F-5 mandolin 01/13/55. The last orange label "A" number was A36147, used 2/21/61. Note the "-" after the "A" was dropped for the orange labels. Solidbody instruments 1952 to 1960: No number: 1952 to early 1953 ink stamped numbers in back top of peghead. First number denotes last digit of year, followed by a space and 4 digits, or no space and 5 digits. No space and 5 digits following the year only occured in 1955, 1956, 1959 and 1960. In 1955 Gibson forgot to reset their serial number back to #5 0001. Instead they continued the 1954 series, just changing the first digit to a "5" for 1955. For this reason the serial numbers exceeded "5 9999", hence 5 digits and no space following the year had to be used. Apparently production was high enough in 1956 to exceed "6 9999". 1959 & 1960 production was also very high, exceeding "9 9999" and going to "932000" or higher. All models, NO "made in U.S.A." stamped on peghead, 1961 to 1969: 4 or 5 digits impressed in back top of peghead: 1961 to 1964. 6 digits impressed in back top of peghead: 1963 to 1969. All models, "made in U.S.A." stamped-on the peghead, 1970 to present. Stamped on the back of the peghead. The "U.S.A." is below the "Made in", which is below the stamped-on serial number. All stamps in the same size type. Used from 1970 to present: 6 digits impressed in back top of peghead: 1970 to 1975. Letter followed by 3 digits, custom shop or limited edition models only: 1971 to present. Number on decal: 1975 to 1977. 8 digits impressed in back top of peghead: 1977 to present. White label as used from 1908 to 1932. This label is from a 1929 L-4 model. Non-Hyphen Serial Numbers, 1902 to 1947. Series starts with 1000. Note the format of these serial numbers has NO HYPHEN and NO LETTERS. For a number list with a hyphen and/or a letter, see the previous section under Factory Order Numbers. Year Last Number ---- ----------- 1903 1500 1904 2500 1905 3500 1906 5500 1907 8300 1908 9700 1909 10100 1910 10600 1911 10850 1912 13350 1913 16100 1914 20150 1915 25150 1916 32000 1917 39500 1918 47900 1919 53800 1920 63650 1921 69300 1922 71400 1923 74900 1924 81200 1925 82700 1926 83600 1927 85400 1928 87300 1929 89750 1930 90200 1931 90450 1932 90700 1933 91400 1934 92300 1935 92800 1936 94100 1937 95200 1938 95750 1939 96050 1940 96600 1941 97400 1942 97700 1943 97850 1944 98250 1945 98650 1946 99300 1947 99999 (April 28, 1947) "A" style serial numbers as used from 1947 to 1961. Left: Oval white label as used from spring 1947 to January 1955. Right: Orange label as used from January 1955 to 1964. The 1964 to 1969 orange labels are identical, except for the added text "union made". Serial Numbers for Hollow bodies, 1947 to 1961. "A" series, number on interior label, 1947 to 1961 hollow body models. This "Artist" series serial numbers were only used on mid to upper end instruments. Year Number ---- ------ 1947 A-100 (Apr 28) A-411 (Jul 2) A-1146 (Dec 1) A-1304 1948 A-1305 (Jan 8) A-1849 (Jul 2) A-2613 (Dec 8) A-2665 1949 A-2666 (Jan 5) A-3353 (Jul 1) A-4209 (Dec 1) A-4413 1950 A-4414 (Jan 3) A-5456 (Jul 3) A-6312 (Dec 4) A-6597 1951 A-6598 (Jan 4) A-8030 (Jul 2) A-9194 (Dec 3) A-9419 1952 A-9420 (Jan 2) A-11057 (Jul 1) A-12202 (Dec 1) A-12462 1953 A-12463 (Jan 8) A-14332 (Jul 1) A-15883 (Dec 2) A-16101 1954 A-16102 (Jan 5) A-17435 (Jul 1) A-18496 (Dec 1) A-18667 1955 A-18668 (Jan 6) A-18750 (Jan 12, last white label. Note A-18751 to A-19999 not used) A 20001 (Jan 13, First orange label) A 20991 (Jul 1) A 21745 (Dec 1) A 21909 1956 A 21910 (Jan 6) A 23387 (Jul 3) A 24567 (Dec 1) A 24755 1957 A 24756 (Jan 3) A 25899 (Jul 3) A 26695 (Dec 3) A 26819 1958 A 26820 (Jan 6) A 27816 (Jul 1) A 28576 (Dec 1) A 28880 1959 A 28881 (Jan 9) A 30569 (Jul 13) A 31844 (Dec 2) A 32284 1960 A 32285 (Jan 4) A 34068 (Jul 1) A 35252 (Dec 1) A 35645 1961 A 35646 (Jan 3) A 35943 (Feb 1) A 36147 (Feb 21, Last "A" number) Left: The "inked on" serial number on a 1955 Les Paul standard solidbody guitar. This style serial number was used on all 1953 to 1960 solidbody Gibson guitars. Right: The "inked on" serial number on this 1959 Les Paul Junior has no space between the "9" digit (year) and the rest of the numbers. This happened only in 1955, 1956, 1959 and 1960 when production required a number above "9999", thus occupying the space. Serial Numbers, 1952 to 1960, solid body models. Ink stamped number on back top of peghead. The first year of Gibson solidbodies was 1952, and Gibson didn't use any serial number in 1952. Starting in 1953, the first number is the last number of the year. If the ink stamped number consists of 5 digits, there will be a space between the first and second numbers (separating the last digit of the year from the actual serial number). If there is a 6 digit ink stamped number, there is no embedded space as the serial number has exceeded 9999 and now occupies the place where the space existed in numbers 9999 and lower. No space and 5 digits following the year only occured in 1955, 1956, 1959 and 1960. In 1955 Gibson forgot to reset their serial number back to #5 0001. Instead they continued the 1954 series, just changing the first digit to a "5" for 1955. For this reason the serial numbers exceeded "5 9999", hence 5 digits and no space following the year had to be used. Apparently production was high enough in 1956 to exceed "6 9999". Production in 1959 and 1960 was also very high, exceeding "9 9999" and going to "932000" or higher: Year First Number ---- ------------ 1952 none 1953 3 1954 4 1955 5 1956 6 1957 7 1958 8 1959 9 1960 0 Stamped in serial numbers, used from 1961 to 1969. The 1964 number on the left is still a "pressed in" number, though gibson has inked the impression to make it more readable (they started doing this about 1963 or 1964, when serial numbers went to six digits). The number in the middle is from 1964 (on an ES-335), and the number in the right is from 1961 (on an Les Paul TV Special). Note the lack of "Made in USA", thus denoting these are pre-1970 guitars. Serial Numbers, Feb 1961 to 1970. All models, stamped in back top of peghead. No "MADE IN USA" stamp below serial number! Note many serial numbers are duplicated from 1963-1969. In these cases, to figure out which is the exact year for a guitar, see the General Specs section for more details. ALSO note: It is easy to confuse 5 digit and 6 digit serial numbers from this era, and hence get the wrong year for a guitar. That is, 55555 is not the same number as 555555 (but when reading the number off the back of a Gibson peghead, these two numbers do look very similar!) Range Year ----- ---- 0100 to 42440 1961 42441 to 61180 1962 61450 to 64222 1963 64240 to 71040 1964 71041 to 96600 1962, a few from 1963/1964 96601 to 99999 1963 000001 to 099999 1967 (all 6 digit numbers starting with "0" are 1967) 100000 to 106099 1963 or 1967 106100 to 106899 1963 109000 to 109999 1963 or 1967 110000 to 111549 1963 111550 to 115799 1963 or 1967 115800 to 118299 1963 118300 to 120999 1963 or 1967 121000 to 139999 1963 140000 to 140100 1963 or 1967 140101 to 144304 1963 144305 to 144380 1964 144381 to 149864 1963 149865 to 149891 1964 149892 to 152989 1963 152990 to 174222 1964 174223 to 176643 1964 or 1965 176644 to 250335 1964 250336 to 305983 1965 306000 to 310999 1965 or 1967 311000 to 320149 1965 320150 to 320699 1967 320700 to 329179 1965 329180 to 330199 1965 or 1967 330200 to 332240 1965, 1967 or 1968 332241 to 348092 1965 348093 to 349100 1966 349121 to 368638 1965 368640 to 369890 1966 370000 to 370999 1967 380000 to 385309 1966 390000 to 390998 1967 400001 to 406666 1966 406667 to 409670 1966 to 1968 409671 to 410900 1966 410901 to 419999 unknown 420000 to 429193 1966 500000 to 500999 1965, 1966, 1968, or 1969 501009 to 501600 1965 501601 to 501702 1968 501703 to 502706 1965 or 1968 503010 to 503109 1968 503405 to 520955 1965 or 1968 520956 to 530056 1968 530061 to 530850 1966, 1968, or 1969 530851 to 530993 1968 or 1969 530994 to 539999 1969 540000 to 540795 1966 or 1969 540796 to 545009 1969 555000 to 557999 1966 558000 to 567400 1969 570087 to 570643 1966 570645 to 570755 1966 or 1967 570857 to 570964 1966 580000 to 580080 1969 580086 to 580999 1966, 1967 or 1969 600000 to 600998 low end models, 1966, 1967, or 1968 600000 to 606090 high end models, 1969 700000 to 700799 1966, 1967 or 1969 750000 to 750999 1968 or 1969 800000 to 800999 1966, 1967, 1968 or 1969 801000 to 812838 1966 or 1969 812900 to 819999 1969 820000 to 820087 1966 or 1969 820088 to 823830 1966 824000 to 824999 1969 828002 to 847488 1966 or 1969 847499 to 858999 1966 or 1969 859001 to 895038 1967 895039 to 896999 1968 897000 to 898999 1967 or 1969 899000 to 899999 1968 900000 to 901999 1970 910000 to 999999 1968 1970's style stamped serial number with a "MADE IN U.S.A." stamp. Notice the volute. Serial Numbers, early to mid 1970's. All models, stamped in back top of headstock. "MADE IN U.S.A." stamped below the serial number in back top of peghead, in the same size type, and on two lines with "U.S.A." below the "MADE IN": Number Year ------ ---- 6 digits + A 1970 000000's 1973 100000's 1970-1975 200000's 1973-1975 300000's 1974-1975 400000's 1974-1975 500000's 1974-1975 600000's 1970-1972, 1974-1975 700000's 1970-1972 800000's 1973-1975 900000's 1970-1972 A + 6 digits 1973-1975 B + 6 digits 1974-1975 C + 6 digits 1974-1975 D + 6 digits 1974-1975 E + 6 digits 1974-1975 F + 6 digits 1974-1975 Left: 1977 Gibson decal serial number for an ES-335, that was never applied. Right: 1977 Gibson decal serial number applied on a Les Paul Artisan. Serial Numbers, 1975-1977. All models, decal, 2 digit prefix followed by 6 digits. The decal can also states the model name/number. Prefix Year ------ ---- 99 1975 00 1976 06 1977 Serial Numbers, 1977 to present. All models, 8 digit number impressed in back top of peghead in the following format: YY (1st and 5th digit) = year DDD (digits 2-4) = day of the year, 001=Jan 1st, 365=Dec 31st. NNN (digits 6-8) = rank of instrument for that day. Example: 80012005 = 5th instrument made in Kalamazoo on the first day of 1982. Note all Kalamazoo made instruments (1977-1984) and Bozeman (1989-present) are numbered beginning with 001 each day. Instruments made at Nashville are numbered beginning with 500 each day. Exceptions to the 1977 and later 8 digit serial numbers. Vintage reissue and custom shop models use a different serial number format. 1970s Les Paul Spotlight Special Numbered YY nnnn (with YY being the year, nnnn is the ranking). 1994 Electric Gibsons. In 1994 only, the Nashville Gibson factory numbered all instruments with a 94xxxxxx style number. The final 6 digits ranked the instruments over the whole year's production. 1994 Centennial Electric Models. Inked on serial number in a YYYY-MM format. This funky formatting keys the YYYY number to a ranking of the model according to the years of centenial (1894 corresponds to #1, 1994 corresponds to #101, etc). The MM was the month of the model within the series, ranging from 1 to 14 (but only 12 models were actually produced, plus 2 prototypes). Les Paul Classic, 1990-present. The LP Classic have a 1950s style inked serial number with the first digit decoding to the last digit of the year. Vintage Reissues and Custom Shop Models, 1982 to present. These models have their own serial number system, and are not covered in this document.

YDDDYPPP

Y = YEAR ANNEE
D = DAY JOUR
P = MODEL

Example : 00632384 = year 2002