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Whereas Martin guitars have been using a single, consistent numbering system since the 19th century, Gibson has used several different serial number formats since its inception in 1902, meaning that some formats and numbers overlap across decades. Dating gibson guitars by reference of serial numbers Gibson has used various methods of numbering from 1900, so it is not simply based on the serial number to identify the year of manufacture. From 1902 to 1976, Gibson instruments have a serial number or a FON (Factory Order Number) or both.
Years 1961-1975 (This is a little confusing as some numbers are duplicated and inconsistent) 100-9999 1961 - 1963 199 1963 - 1967 200 1964 - 1965 399 1965 - 1969 699 1966 - 1969 099 1967 099 1970-1975 (from 74 to 75 a prefix of C, D, E, F was used) 1977 Forward - finally a standard serial number was used. The first and fifth numbers are the year, for example 8997653 = 8997653 or 1986 Gibson Hollow Body Serial Numbers Gibson Prefix and Suffix Model Codes ES (Electric Spanish - hollow body with fixed pickup(s) T - Thinline D Double - 2 Pickups C Cutaway or Cherry Finish 3/4 - 3/4 side and short scale SV - Stereo and Veritone wiring option Please keep in mind that Serial numbers show approximate date of manufacture. For all dates, you will need to look at the construction technique and components used to get a more precise date of manufacture.