Serial Numbers Gibson [upd] Jun 2026
(First 2 digits): Explictly denotes the model year (e.g., 14 = 2014, 18 = 2018).
| | Serial Format | How to Read | Notes | |---------|------------------|----------------|-----------| | 1977–2005 | 8 digits | YYDDDPRR | YY=year, DDD=day, P=plant (1=Kalamazoo, 2=Nashville), RR=rank | | 2005–2013 | 8 or 9 digits | Often 1st 2 digits = year | Used separate batch system; check Gibson lookup tool | | 2014–present | 9 digits | YDDDYRRRR | Y=year (first & fifth), DDD=day, RRRR=rank | | Pre-1977 | 4–6 digits | No universal formula | Must consult vintage serial charts by year range | | Custom Shop | CS YRRRR | CS = Custom Shop, Y=year, RRRR=rank | Example: CS91234 = 1999 or 2009 | serial numbers gibson
Did you know? A 1979 Gibson Les Paul with serial # 80087501 was the 501st guitar built on March 20, 1979 (day 79 of the year) at the Nashville plant. (First 2 digits): Explictly denotes the model year (e
Gibson serial numbers were not standardized, and records were not always kept accurately. Gibson serial numbers were not standardized, and records









