Once the serial numbers hit 99999, Gibson decided to change to a new system, rather than go into 6 digits. The first serial number for acoustic guitars was 100. The serial numbers shown represent the approximate last serial number for that year. The chart below shows the year that relates to the serial number. Guitars were just given the next available number. The following serial numbers apply just to Gibson acoustic guitars.ĭuring this period, the system was actually relatively simple. Let’s take a look at the different time periods of serial numbers from Gibson Guitars. So, you may not be able to accurately determine anything about your guitar using the serial number alone. Good question! And the answer is simple – serial number system, used up until 1977., wasn’t the easiest or most reliable system. So, why discuss all these other aspects when this post is supposed to be about Gibson serial numbers? Though, remember that an older instrument could have had these items replaced, so it’s not a definite clue. Things such as Gibson’s automatic tuning system, capstans and plates can also give you clues.so if your instrument didn’t have them, then it’s likely to be pre-1969. Volutes: Extra bits of wood carved into the headstock where it meets the neck.You can also use other features to help identify the time period of your instrument.

This can help determine if your guitar was from the 1960s or 1970s (some guitars during those 2 decades had the same serial number).

onwards, a “Made in U.S.A” was engraved below the serial number. But, before that time, the logo changed a bit, so you can use that to help identify the era your guitar was built. Gibson’s logo has been largely unchanged since 1947. Other Identifiersīut, there are some other ways you can get a glance of an Gibson acoustic guitar history, as well as the age of your Gibson: Logo In some cases, in fact, only FONs were used and there was no serial number (this was mainly for early low-end models).įONs (and serial numbers) on Gibson guitars are usually found either on the inside of the back of the guitar (inside the sound hole) or on the back of the headstock.įONs were used from 1902 to 1961. In addition to serial numbers, older Gibson guitars also had Factory Order Numbers (FONs) imprinted.

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