When in doubt, reputable vintage guitar shops and databases like the can help confirm if that "1959 Les Paul" is a holy grail or a modern replica.
This guide helps you identify the and factory of manufacture for most Gibson guitars (USA production) using the serial number. Note: Vintage instruments (pre-1975) and custom/special runs may follow different formats. gibson serial
In 1977, Gibson introduced a standardized 8-digit system (extended to 9 digits in 2005) that remains the primary method for Gibson USA, Acoustic, and Memphis. When in doubt, reputable vintage guitar shops and
How to decipher model year on a Custom Shop Gibson USA guitar? When in doubt
Gibson’s history is famously "haphazard" when it comes to numbering, and several eras break the standard rules: