Prior to 1984 when the Kalamazoo, MI factory was closed, the numbers 001-499 indicated Kalamazoo production. RRR is the factory ranking/plant designation number. The serial number will be an 8 digit number impressed into the back of the headstock with “MADE IN USA” below. – In 1977, Gibson introduced the serialization method that we primarily use to this day at Gibson USA, Gibson Acoustic, and the Gibson Custom facility in Memphis, TN. This should be an 8 digit number that can be dated by the 1st and 2nd digits as follows: – From 1975-1977 the number is typically found on a decal on the back of the headstock. Serial number information republished from : Gibson USA, Gibson Acoustic, Gibson Memphis For instruments older than 1975, you’ll need to consult a Gruhn guide or one of the Blue Book PDFs available through Gibson’s site.
This guide, republished courtesy of, provides information from 1975-present, covering thousands of Gibson instruments. This serial number guide will help you to figure it all out. Wondering how old your Gibson or Epiphone guitar is? Maybe you have a Gibson banjo, dobro, or a Goldtone amplifier you’re not sure about.