Frequently Asked Questions
Epiphone Serial Number FAQs
how to look up an Epiphone guitar serial number ?
To look up an Epiphone guitar serial number, you will need to find the serial number on the guitar and then use it to research the model and manufacturing date of the guitar. Here are the steps to follow:
- Find the serial number on the guitar: the serial number location may vary depending on the model and type of guitar you have, some are located on the headstock, some on the back of the headstock, some on the neck joint, or inside the guitar.
- Research the model and manufacturing date: You can use the serial number to research the model and manufacturing date of the guitar. There are several online resources that can help you with this, such as the Epiphone Serial Number guide. You can also try contacting Epiphone customer service or a guitar dealer or expert for assistance.
- Check for any discrepancies: Keep in mind that sometimes the serial number may not accurately reflect the model or manufacturing date of the guitar. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as repairs or changes made to the guitar over the years. If you suspect that the serial number is incorrect or if you are unable to find information about the guitar using the serial number, it is a good idea to have the guitar appraised by a professional.
- Please note that Epiphone has not been consistent in their serial number system throughout the years, and some of their older guitars may not have a serial number, or may have a serial number that is not recognized by the lookup tool.
how to date an Epiphone guitar ?
To date an Epiphone guitar, you can use the serial number to determine the approximate age of the instrument. The serial number can be found in various locations on the guitar, such as the back of the headstock, the neck joint, or inside the guitar.
Here are the general steps to date an Epiphone guitar using the serial number:
- Look up the serial number on the Epiphone website and use their “guitar serial number decoder” tool. This will give you an approximate date of when the guitar was manufactured.
- Check the serial number against a list of known Epiphone serial numbers to determine the approximate age and model of the guitar.
- Look for any other identifying features on the guitar, such as the logo or headstock shape, to determine the specific model.
- Research the specific model and compare it to the approximate date of manufacture to get a more accurate date range for the guitar.
It’s important to note that Epiphone serial numbers can be difficult to read, and the dating process can be uncertain. It’s always best to consult an expert if you have any doubts.
How does The Epiphone database crawler work ?
Real-time database crawlers are software programs that continuously scan a database and index its contents in real-time, as the data is being added or updated. This allows the indexed data to be searched or accessed almost immediately after it is entered into the database.
Here’s how real-time database crawlers work:
- The real-time database crawler is given a starting point in the database, such as a table or a specific record.
- The crawler continuously scans the database, following relationships or links between data elements and collecting information about each element as it goes.
- The collected information is stored in an index, which can be used for searching or other purposes.
- As new data is added or existing data is updated in the database, the crawler automatically updates the index in real-time.
Real-time database crawlers are used in applications where it is important to have up-to-date and accurate information available for search or access. They are often used in industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce, where real-time data is critical.
Keep in mind that real-time database crawlers are different from traditional database crawlers, which scan and index a database at a specific point in time. Real-time database crawlers operate continuously and update the index as data is being added or updated.
How reliable is the guitar serial number in dating An Epiphone guitar
The guitar serial number is a reliable way to date Epiphone guitars, but it is not the only factor to consider. Epiphone has been using serial numbers to date their guitars since the 1930s. However, the accuracy of the date provided by the serial number can vary depending on the era of production and the model of guitar.
The serial numbers on Epiphone guitars produced between 1957 and 1970 are not as reliable for dating the guitar as those produced after 1970. during this era the serial numbers were used for internal tracking and not intended as a dating system.
In the 1970s, Epiphone began using a more consistent serial number system, which can be used to accurately date the guitar to within a few years. The serial number is usually located on the back of the headstock, but it can also be found on the neck joint or inside the guitar.
It is also important to note that the serial number can be altered, lost or removed, so it is always best to consult an expert if you have any doubts or uncertainty about the guitar’s date.
Where can I find my Epiphone Guitar serial number ?
The serial number on an Epiphone guitar can typically be found in one of several locations, depending on the model and era of production. Some common places to find the serial number include:
- On the back of the headstock: This is one of the most common places to find the serial number on an Epiphone guitar. It is often stamped or printed on a label and can be found on the back of the headstock, near the base of the neck.
- On the neck joint: Some Epiphone guitars have the serial number stamped on the neck joint, which is the point where the neck meets the body of the guitar.
- Inside the guitar: On some models, the serial number can be found inside the guitar, usually on the back of the headstock or on the neck block.
- Some guitars also have serial number located on the label inside the sound hole.
It’s important to note that the serial number location may vary depending on the model and type of guitar you have, so it’s a good idea to check all of these locations if you are having trouble finding the serial number.
Where are Epiphone guitars manufactured ?
Epiphone guitars are manufactured in a variety of locations around the world. The brand is owned by Gibson Brands, Inc. and its guitars are produced in several factories, including:
- The Gibson USA factory in Nashville, Tennessee, USA: Some high-end Epiphone models are produced at this facility, which is also home to Gibson’s main guitar production.
- The Gibson Custom Shop in Nashville, Tennessee, USA: Some limited edition and custom Epiphone models are produced at this facility.
- The Gibson plant in Bozeman, Montana, USA: Some high-end Epiphone models are produced at this facility, which is also home to Gibson’s main acoustic guitar production.
- The Gibson plant in Unsung, China: The majority of Epiphone models are produced at this facility, which is operated by Gibson’s subsidiary, Gibson Innovations.
- The Gibson plant in Qingdao, China: The archtop models of Epiphone are produced at this facility.
It’s important to note that the location of production does not affect the quality of the guitar. Epiphone guitars are known for their quality, regardless of where they are made.
how many Epiphone guitars are there ?
Epiphone is a brand of Gibson Brands, Inc. and it offers a wide variety of guitar models, ranging from entry-level instruments to high-end professional models. The exact number of Epiphone guitar models varies over time as the brand releases new models and discontinues older ones.
In general, the Epiphone guitar range includes electric and acoustic guitars, hollow body and semi-hollow body archtop guitars, basses, mandolins and banjos. They also offer limited edition models and collaborations with famous guitarists.
It’s difficult to give an exact number of Epiphone models as the brand keeps updating its line-up, discontinuing some models and introducing new ones. It’s safe to say that there are many different Epiphone guitar models available, catering to a wide range of players and styles.
How to spot a fake Epiphone guitar ?
Spotting a fake Epiphone guitar can be difficult, as counterfeiters are becoming increasingly skilled at replicating the details of authentic instruments. However, there are some ways to identify a fake Epiphone guitar:
- Check the serial number: Epiphone guitars have a serial number that can be used to verify the authenticity of the instrument. Check the serial number against the official Epiphone website to see if it matches a real model.
- Inspect the logo: The Epiphone logo should be clear and well-defined, with smooth edges and consistent spacing between the letters. A fake logo may be poorly printed or have jagged edges.
- Look at the hardware: The hardware on an authentic Epiphone guitar, such as the tuning machines, bridge, and tailpiece, should be of good quality and have a consistent finish. On a fake guitar, the hardware may be poorly made, or have a different finish than the original.
- Check the wood grain: The wood grain on an authentic Epiphone guitar should be consistent and natural looking. Fake guitars may have artificial or inconsistent wood grain patterns.
- Compare it to an authentic one : Compare the guitar you’re inspecting to an authentic one, check every detail, from the shape of the headstock, the tuners, the logo, the color of the wood, the finish, etc.
- Consult an expert: If you are unsure about the authenticity of an Epiphone guitar, it is best to consult an expert, such as a guitar technician or a dealer who specializes in Epiphone guitars.
It’s important to note that even experts can be deceived by high-quality counterfeit guitars, so it’s important to be cautious and do your research when purchasing a used or unfamiliar Epiphone guitar.
22 thoughts on “Epiphone Serial Number Lookup”
OLA! TUDO BEM
TENHO UMA GUITARRA EPIPHONE LES PAUL SERIE Nº S5028407 GOSTARIA DE SABER A DESCRIÇÃO CORRETA DESTA GUITARRA E O ANO DE FABRICAÇÃO DELA. SE POSSIVEL. MUITO OBRIGADO.
Hi, i have an Epiphone with serial number 808594.
can you tell the year ?
michael
I have an old epiphone special with a SN on the neck plate. C197015378. I have had it probably over 20 years. bought it second hand and seemed old then. lookup didn’t work for me
My Epiphone’s Serial Number dosen’t works here. It’s a Epiphone Joe Pass, SN S93178, made in Korea. I bought it brand new in 93′. Anyone can help me crak the code?
http://www.guitarnucleus.net/resources-serial-guitar-epiphone-import.html
QG Qingdao Gibson China
S Samick Korea
SI Samick, Bogor Indonesia
1 LETTER – 5 DIGITS (EX: T32222)1970 – Gibson moved production from the US to Japan
1983 – Korea factory opened
1995 – Indonesia factory opened
2004 – Gibson opened a factory in Qingdao, ChinaLetter = Factory Code
1st Digit = Last Digit of Year
Last 4 Digits = Sequence Number
Based on this I would say Samick, Korea 1989. Go to the website. Maybe you’ll see something different.
Why doesn’t my sn show up on epiphone lookup I3091551690
Made in 2013 in sept at a factory in Quingdao China
I need a tuning mechanism for a ES 335 an Epiphone serial# 1124020006. Do I have to purchase a set of six or can I purchase one. B-string. There is Epiphone Deluxe on the the screw cover. Thank you
“Hi their and hello again” it’s a beautiful thing
08061713552
Model PR5EVS
So ? How much is it worth ? Please .
Papa needs ah new pair awh shoes !
Please and Thank You’s
http://www.epiphonewiki.org/index/Epiphone_Serial_Number_Decoding.php
Hello, I bought my son a Epiphone Les Paul Standard Limited Edition.
# V99014156.
it dosen’t say made in the USA.
Is there anything else you could tell me about this guitar?
How much is it worth?
I want to know the MODEL or name, Classic Plus, Studio, etc. of my Epiphone Les Paul. Ser. I02070846 I think it’s a Classic Plus; no pickup covers, all coil bobbins are black, Epiphone/ Kluson tuners with green Keystone tuner handles, Bird’s Eye maple top, single ply binding on body and neck, Made in Korea, in July of 2002, 0846 line number Trapezoidal neck markers, looks like rose wood fret board. Red into yellow sunburst, the red on the body is not the same as the red on the neck.
Hi, I forgot my serial # on my 2013 Epiphone DOT CH guitar. The serial #
is 13051502176. What can you tell me about my guitar.
Thanks, Don
Made in 2013 in May at factory in Quingdao China
I have a 2013 Epiphone DOT CH model. What can you tell me about the guitar?
Hi..trying to date an Epiphone 5 string banjo with the serial number U2161..stamped on the back of the peghead. Thanks in advance.
FT 79 Texan serial number 191258 made in Kalamazoo. Can date of manufacture be narrowed down? Thanks Any help would be appreciated
I have Epiphone Preformer SE
Serial n 0908230416 it’s made in ?
Please if you know.
Thank you
Sergio
Your database is incorrect for my Epiphone 2004 Elite Les Paul Custom made at Fujigen, Japan factory in 2004. When I put the serial number (F400327) in your decoder it came up with the reply that my guitar was made in 1994 which is obviously not true since the Elite/Elitist guitars were only produced between 2002 and 2008.
Just thought someone might care to know.
Thanks Wayne, we will look into it!
Epiphone 98940 I bought it used in 1975 can’t find nothing that’s dates it.
crazy. I’ve owned this guitar since 1977 it was not made in 2002!