This, in turn, affected the numbering scheme. If it was manufactured after 1977, the build date is included in the sequence. At the same time, the new shareholders decided to change some of their production methods which had a direct impact on their inventory. Cheers. If these two numbers are "05," they denote that the guitar was made in the month of May. How do I tell the year of an Epiphone Les Paul SJ serial number 07038305? During that year, all started with the number zero, and by 1968 the companies were up to 999999. The manufacturers stamped it on the top backside of the peghead. I looked up my Gibson Les Paul Epiphone number 198050195 but it wasn't recognized. Analyze the first two numbers in the serial. 9 years ago. If it was manufactured after 1977, the process is easy. In this guide, we’ll give you the basics on how it works so that you can learn if you have a vintage gem that’s worth a fortune. In general, rare guitars are worth more money, and that particular model is valued at between $250,000 and $310,000. This sequence begins in 1932 with the number 5000, and the last documented serial number in this series is 20142. Then, in 1969, they changed things up and used the sequence 600000 to 606090 to denote the more expensive, high-end guitars. Because there is not a single, central database for any of the models manufactured prior to 1977, you have to dig deep into the code to figure out from where and when it originated. Serial numbers from 70' and 80's era Epiphone guitars made in Japan are not supported. During this time period, they ink stamped the digits on the back of the peghead and used the last number of the year as the first number in the serial sequence on their solid body models. Locate the serial number on the back of the guitar's headstock (the top of the neck where the strings are attached). Serial numbersfrom 70' and 80's era Epiphone guitars made in Japan are not supported. Since it's a 7 digit serial number, and 8 is the first number, it's likely from 1998. With Semi-Hollow models on the label inside the top f-hole … Beginning in 1934, they moved the placement directly onto the label itself. F-Serial used on LP Std'59/'60 models and Tribute/Plus models. Use the "keys" and factory letter/number identifiers below -- note that for guitars made prior to 1993, the serial # assigned does not reveal the date or factory where made -- or you can, We may also earn commissions on purchases from other retail websites. Where to find the serial number Locate the serial number on the headstock of the guitar. Beginning in 1934, they moved the placement directly onto the label itself. 1993. If the serial number were to end with the digits "5473," it means the guitar was the 5,473rd guitar of that model manufactured. This serial number guide will help you to figure it all out. In 1944, there were some shakeups inside of Epiphone which resulted in the creation of a new numbering system. Is anyone able to date my Epiphone Sheraton? FYYMMRRRR F= Factory code (this can be 2 letters as well) YY= year of manufacture (this can also be just 1 digit for '90s models) MM= month of manufacture A serial number not only confirms the authenticity of your guitar but can impact the value. The number is on the headstock and is ink stamped on. Navigate to http://www.guitardaterproject.org/epiphone.aspx and type in the serial number. There are entire books written on how to decipher your Epiphone serial number sequence, but here we will outline the basics of what you need to know based on year ranges that have commonalities. This is one of the many spans of time where there is a significant amount of grey area around dating the serial number on your instrument. Wondering how old your Gibson or Epiphone guitar is? Epiphone stamps each guitar with a serial number, however, which when deciphered can tell a guitarist all he needs to know about the guitar. EE04091253. Beginning with A1000 in 1958, this series goes to A4999 in 1961. You’ll find them die stamped on the top rear of the peghead, and they are a sequence of between three and five numbers. I answered your question previously and sent you a link detailing how Epiphone numbered their guitars. Beginning with 60000 in 1951, and ending with the last known New-York made model, the Epi Zephyr, number 69637. RRRR= Ranking number (may be more or less digits) Example: 3021234 = Samick Korea / 1993 / February / unit … Epiphone started as a family business in 1873 as a luxury banjo manufacturer. However, there is no data that tells us how many guitars were made each year, which makes it impossible to pinpoint an estimated date the instrument was manufactured. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, My Guitar Guide: Easy Epiphone Serial Numbers Guide. That information is extremely helpful if you’re trying to determine its value or if you’re looking to sell your instrument. Anthony King is a freelance writer and amateur filmmaker. The reason for this is that there is no reliable documentation from this time period. You will need this to discover your model type. Maybe you have a Gibson banjo, dobro, or a Goldtone amplifier you’re not sure about. If the guitar was made in Korea, it will either have an "I," which stands for Saein; a "U," which stands for Unsung; an "S," which stands for Samick; or a "P," which stands for Peerless. Register your product to activate your Gibson warranty. In 1969, a second purchase occurred. Most guitars have serial numbers to identify the date and year of manufacture, and Epiphone serial numbers also include a factory code that can help you determine where your guitar was made. Only clue so far is the bottom of the bridge with a 1993 date. Write the number down. The serial number is 880509595 and it's located on a stick-on strip on the back of the headstock. Aparently it is an Epiphone limited edition, it has the stamp on the back of the headstock, the one with the Euro symbol E. For an iPhone, click Phone Number under your device name or the device model to find the IMEI/MEID and ICCID.