In 1977,
Gibson introduced the serialization method that is in practice
today. This updated system utilizes an impressed eight digit
numbering scheme that covers both serializing and dating
functions. The pattern is as follows:
YDDDYPPP
YY is the production year
DDD is the day of the year
PPP is the plant designation and/or instrument rank.
Since 1989, acoustic guitars built at our Bozeman, Montana
facility are ranked from 001-499. Electric Guitars built at the
Gibson USA plant in Nashville are ranked from 500-999. Prior to
1984, the numbers 001-499 show Kalamazoo production, 500-999 show
Nashville production. The serial numbers from the Custom, Art, and
Historic division vary depending on the line. The historic reissue
guitars feature historically accurate serial numbers.
Examples: 70108276 means the instrument was produced on
Jan. 10, 1978, in Kalamazoo and was the 276th instrument stamped
that day.
82765501 means the instrument was produced on Oct. 3,
1985, in Nashville and was the 1st instrument stamped that day.
Serial Number dating is more complex for earlier
(Pre-1977) Gibson's and
will not be addressed here at this time.
