Frequently Asked Questions
Gibson Serial Number FAQs
how to look up a Gibson guitar serial number ?
To look up a Gibson 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 is usually located on the back of the headstock or on the neck plate of the guitar. It may also be printed on the inside of the guitar body.
- 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 Gibson Serial Number Decoder or the Blue Book of Electric Guitars. You can also try contacting Gibson 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.
how to date a Gibson guitar ?
There are a few different ways to date a Gibson guitar, depending on the type of guitar and the information available. Here are a few steps you can follow to determine the age of your Gibson guitar:
- Locate the serial number. The serial number is a unique code that can help you identify the year and model of your Gibson guitar. On most electric guitars, the serial number is located on the back of the headstock, but it may also be found on the neck plate or on a label or sticker affixed to the bottom of the guitar. On acoustic guitars, the serial number may be located inside the soundhole or on the neck block.
- Use a Gibson serial number decoder. Gibson has a database of serial numbers that can help you determine the year and model of your guitar based on the serial number. You can use an online serial number decoder or contact Gibson’s customer service department for assistance. Keep in mind that not all serial numbers can be traced, especially if the guitar is a vintage or antique model.
- Look for other identifying features. In addition to the serial number, there are other features of your Gibson guitar that can help you determine its age. These may include the type of wood used, the shape of the headstock, the type of pickups, and the type of hardware.
- Check the manufacturer’s records. If you are unable to determine the age of your Gibson guitar using the serial number or other identifying features, you may be able to find more information by checking the manufacturer’s records. These records may include information about the production run, the place of manufacture, and other details about the guitar. You can contact Gibson’s customer service department for assistance with accessing these records.
Keep in mind that dating a Gibson guitar can be challenging, especially if the guitar is a vintage or antique model. In some cases, the serial number may be missing or difficult to read, and other identifying features may have changed or been modified over time.
How does The Gibson 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 a Gibson guitar ?
The serial number can be a useful tool in dating a Gibson guitar, but it is not always reliable. While Gibson has used a variety of serial number formats over the years, the serial number alone is not always enough to accurately determine the manufacturing date of the guitar.
There are several factors that can affect the reliability of the serial number in dating a Gibson guitar, such as:
- Repairs or modifications: If the guitar has been repaired or modified over the years, the serial number may no longer accurately reflect the manufacturing date of the guitar.
- Serial number formats: Gibson has used several different serial number formats over the years, and it is important to use the right decoding resources and techniques for the specific serial number on your guitar.
- Inconsistencies in the serial number system: There may be inconsistencies in the way that Gibson has applied serial numbers to its guitars over the years, which can make it difficult to accurately date the guitar using the serial number alone.
For these reasons, it is a good idea to use other methods in addition to the serial number when dating a Gibson guitar, such as researching the model and examining the craftsmanship and features of the guitar. If you are still unsure about the manufacturing date of the guitar, it is a good idea to have it appraised by a professional.
how many Gibson guitars are there ?
It is difficult to determine exactly how many Gibson guitars have been produced, as the company has been in business for over 100 years and has produced a wide variety of models. Gibson is one of the largest and most successful guitar manufacturers in the world, and it is known for producing high-quality electric and acoustic guitars for players of all levels.
Gibson has produced many iconic guitar models over the years, including the Les Paul, SG, ES-335, and J-45. These and other models have been played by some of the most influential musicians in history, and they remain popular today among players of all genres.
In addition to its core line of electric and acoustic guitars, Gibson has also produced a range of other instruments, including basses, mandolins, and banjos. It is estimated that Gibson produces hundreds of thousands of instruments each year, and the company has a reputation for quality and craftsmanship that is unmatched in the industry.
How to spot a fake Gibson guitar ?
It can be difficult to spot a fake Gibson guitar, as many counterfeiters go to great lengths to make their products look and feel like the real thing. Here are some tips to help you spot a fake Gibson guitar:
- Check the serial number: One of the easiest ways to spot a fake Gibson guitar is to check the serial number. Gibson has used a variety of serial number formats over the years, and the serial number should be able to accurately identify the model and manufacturing date of the guitar. If the serial number seems suspicious or if you are unable to find information about the guitar using the serial number, it is possible that the guitar is a counterfeit.
- Inspect the craftsmanship: Gibson guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship, so if the guitar you are looking at has poor craftsmanship or if it seems to be made of inferior materials, it may be a fake. Look for things like uneven binding, rough or unfinished edges, and poor quality hardware.
- Check the price: If the price of the Gibson guitar seems too good to be true, it could be a fake. While it is possible to find good deals on genuine Gibson guitars, it is unlikely that you will find one at a significantly discounted price.
- Verify the seller: If you are purchasing a Gibson guitar from a third-party seller, make sure to verify their credibility. Check their reputation and look for reviews or ratings from previous customers. If the seller seems untrustworthy or if they are unwilling to provide proof of authenticity, it is best to avoid the transaction.
- Get a professional appraisal: If you are still unsure whether the Gibson guitar is real or fake, it is a good idea to have it appraised by a professional. A guitar expert or dealer will be able to examine the guitar in detail and provide an opinion on its authenticity.
38 thoughts on “Gibson Serial Number Lookup”
Bought a very rough red wine with gold hardware Gibson Les Paul in a pawn shop in Alburquerque. Serial number is either 91331521 or 81331521. Came with a soft of brand case. Gibson details and has binding around only top of body and bottom shows dark color but was actually redone from visual inspection. Have had for around four years and got dirt cheap. Weighs very heavy but from what I can tell it is a fine instrument but is very old. Pre 2000 build and keeps some tone accurate. Have difficulty because I assume neck is old style. Most of my others (that I had sold were speed necks and although I’m 73 I still jam on this axe, sometimes). Need to find out more data because I do think it’s authenticate but I’ve been wrong before. Also, has a different truss rod plate. No diamond on hedstock but has Led Paul Model inscription just before truss rod face plate. Keys are assumingly Gibson brand.
Looking to buy a Gibson Flying V with a s/n 112510639. When I look it up it only shows 2011. Is there anymore information I can get about it? Thanks…
Have a 06
My Gibson SG # is 03443374 What would be the year this was made ? Thanx
2003 on the 344th day of the year and it was the 374th guitar of the day
2003
I hav a Gibson blue ridge acoustic guitar serial # 818656 would like to know the model year any help would really be appreciated thx
hello. I’m driving about 4 hours to pickup what I was told was a 1976 Les Paul custom in wine red. it’s serial number is 00124743.
I found a site that actually said it was a 2004 made in Nashville.
can anyone help me figure this out and potentially save me 8 hours of driving?
thanks
sam
Just read your message now. That’s too many numbers for a 1970’s. I have a Les Paul, purchased it 1976 used. Was only a few years old at the time. Six digits.
looking to buy a black beauty 3 reissue
serial number 11071506657
don’t want to get scammed with a fake
did you get her ? I have a 1976 Cherrywine too. I also have a 1973 les paul black custom. bought both new back then. I kept everything. invoices
price tag on headstock tag hung with cigar cleaners
The 1976 has a different case than my 1973 which has gibson case too but red inside. My 76 has a velvet purple interior. I’m sentimental so I keep everything. My only regret I did not buy a 1959 les paul with original in early 70s. Store only wanted 1800 for it. I passed and 6 months later he got a second one in. by then price was 3000. I gut told me the 1959 were great guitars. no internet then just occasional articles to read in guitar player magazine back the. It was a million dollar mistake I still regret. George at Gruhns guitars had the guy from Cheap Trick 59 on consignment in 1990s. He went to get out of safe let me play her. It was 45,000 dollars. It looked like the guy had been knocking down stop signs of the window of his car in such bad shape.
shoot me an email showing me your wine I’ll reciprocate with my 2. I bought a charvel 24 months ago and it’s my go to now. Those Paul’s at 71yo are back breakers so heavy but I love them both. Store where I bought them been out of business 30 years. The big box guitars crushed them. John B Lee for music in greenwood SC. Use to love going in there in my 20s. It was a candy store to me.
born2riff_3@yahoo.com
I sure miss not getting 1 if not both of those 1959s. Huge fan of Gary Moore and Greenie..
I have a gibson les paul special and can’t figure out what the age and value of the guitar the serial number is 510088. Can you help me?!
I have a limited edition Les Paul Jr and the serial number is 061-95913. I’m curious as to what year this was made and approximately what it would be worth. guitar is unfair to good condition. I’m thinking about selling it.
I bought my sg in 1969 and records say it’s a 72 , no way I now when I bought it , why are the records wrong
I have a Gibson Dove and the number on back of headstock 002767. I’ve always thought it might have been manufactured in 1980-1982…
I have a Gibson Les Paul electric model #82788548. I’m looking for the year produced and value. I’m thinking of selling. Thanks
1988. First and Fourth digits indicate year of production.
I have a Gibson J45 adj on the inside the stamped #on back of the headstock is 437274 I know it is no later than early 60’s and believe it is late 50’s. I can’t find anything else about it. I has the big pickguard. One is below the sound hole and another is above the hole. Sure would like to know what year it is.
1966 for that serial number.
I have a Gibson SG serial number 398108, and the official warranty registration card from the original buyer show it was bought or registered in June 1977. But this 6 digit serial number does not match the 1977 8 digit serial number (starting with 06 if it is a 1977 model or 00 if it is a 1976). Can you help me to track the real date of this guitar ? Thanks !
Hi Andre, you are welcome to use our Serial Number Analysis service.
I have a Gibson Dove serial number is 923125 with Made In The USA stamped on the head stock. I believe it is a 1970 but the pick guard looks like it was originally screwed on and someone glued the pick guard on and filled the holes in the pick guard with mother of pearl. Also, it has an old style wooden adjustable bridge and no sticker in the sound hole. Wondering how to determine it’s authenticity.
I have a Gibson dove ebony 10816003. And a Gibson dove ebony 11346048 what years are they/ what are they
Both are 2016.
I have a Gibson EB-O cherry electric bass in mint condition.
However, I am having difficulty getting specifics from the serial number.
It is a 6 number serial number: 840389
Can you provide me with further information, i.e. year made, where made, value, etc.
Thank you
I have a Gibson, that is old and the serial number is stamped on the inside. The number is 23529. I can’t seem to get any information on it.
Based purely on the S/N it is either 1961 or 1967.
Yes I have a case clean beautiful C-1 classic written in ink inside number 17539. I’m trying to figure out the exact year thanks.
I have a cherry Red 2013 es335 dot, but the serial number comes up as “2013 custom shop carved top” here. Should I be concerned about it’s authenticity? The serial is 10663734.
Hi – I have a Gibson Explorer with serial number 967347 / 2, which should indicate a 1959 model (or 1962 using left-over parts) I have heard that there was a very high production level in 1959 which led Gibson to introduce a /1 /2 or /3 into the serial numbers. But your serial number look-up tool just draws a blank – Can anyone verify that?
However – the serial numbers on various internal electrical parts date from 1976. So i presume this mean that it’s either a 1959 neck mated to a 1976 body, or somebody swapped out the electrics for new ones at some point in the 1970’s.
Any value in this hybrid?
White es335 offered for sale but from the photos I am suspicious . Don’t want to waste my time driving a long distance to look at a fake
Seller posted a Serial number photo: 017160681
I have a 1998 Gibson Custom ES-355 for sale. It’s the real deal if you’re interested.
Steinberger guitar
I have a M series GM7TA sn/ N000205
For wiring restore.
Active bd, 2 hummers + 1 single core 3×4 up/down throw and 5 position switch.
*Looking for the the wiring diagram.
EMG 89 – bridge
EMG SA – mid
EMG 89R – neck
9 volt batt powered
GA 34 – written on solder side of amp bd
PU wires:
Orange
Green
Yellow
White
Blue which ends with a 21k ohm resistor
Ground , only on hummers.
My email is
r0ckwe11@yahoo.com
Thanks in advance..
Bellmore Electronic Repairs
George DeLorenzo
516-902-8863
ES175 with serial # 092077 inside and serial # also stamped on back of head stock It is blond in color and I have had it since early 70s.
I have a 91068465 LP standard honeyburst, is this a 1998 one?
Yes that’s exactly right. 9DDD8RRR means a 1998 guitar (the 5th digit “8” represents 1998).