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How To Date Your Gibson SG

How To Date Your Gibson SG

How To Date Your Gibson SG

Introduction:

The Gibson SG (Solid Guitar) is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever created. Originally introduced in 1961 as a replacement for the Les Paul model, the SG quickly established its own identity with its distinctive double-cutaway design, lightweight mahogany body, and aggressive sound that has defined rock music for generations.

Dating your Gibson SG accurately is critical for determining its value, authenticity, and historical significance. This is especially important because certain years of SG production are particularly sought after by collectors and command significantly higher prices. Even a one-year difference can dramatically impact what your guitar is worth!

This comprehensive guide will help you identify exactly when your Gibson SG was manufactured, from the earliest "Les Paul/SG" transitional models of 1961 to modern-day reissues and variations. While serial numbers provide an excellent starting point, we'll also show you how to verify the date using physical characteristics specific to SGs from different eras.

Step One: Find Your Serial Number

The first step in dating your Gibson SG is finding the serial number. On SG models, the serial number location has remained fairly consistent:

  • 1961-1975: On the back of the headstock, stamped directly into the wood or with ink

  • 1975-1977: On a label on the back of the headstock

  • 1977-Present: Stamped into the back of the headstock

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Step Two: Identify Your Serial Number Format

Step Two: Identify Your Serial Number Format

Step Two: Identify Your Serial Number Format

Gibson has used various serial number formats throughout the SG's history. Find the format below that matches your guitar:

Step Three: Verify with SG-Specific Features

Step Three: Verify with SG-Specific Features

Step Three: Verify with SG-Specific Features

While serial numbers are helpful, confirming your dating through physical characteristics specific to SGs is essential. Different era SGs have distinctive features:

Step Four: Determine Value

After dating your SG, understanding its value depends on several factors:

  • Year and specific model

  • Condition and originality

  • Hardware and electronic originality

  • Finish type and condition

  • Rarity and collectability

  • Provenance (ownership history)

Most Valuable SG Models:

  • 1961-1963 "Les Paul SG Standards" (especially with original PAF pickups)

  • 1961-1963 "Les Paul SG Customs" with 3 PAF pickups and gold hardware

  • 1961-1962 "Les Paul SG Juniors" and "Les Paul SG Specials"

  • 1963-1965 SG Standards with Maestro Vibrola

  • 1967 SG Custom in Pelham Blue finish

  • Angus Young signature models (limited editions)

  • Original 1960s SGs in rare custom colors

Value Factors:

  • Original PAF or Patent Number pickups can add significant value

  • Original finish (no refinishing) dramatically impacts value

  • Original case and accessories add 10-15% value

  • Documentation, provenance, or famous ownership history can increase value substantially

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Need Expert Help?

Need Expert Help?

Need Expert Help?

Dating Gibson SGs can be complex, especially for instruments from the mid-1960s-1970s when production was less consistent. If you're uncertain about your guitar's age or value, we offer free professional appraisal services.

Whether you're looking to:

  • Get an accurate date for your SG

  • Understand what your vintage Gibson is worth

  • Sell your guitar to a passionate collector

  • Simply learn more about your instrument's history

Contact us today for assistance with dating or valuing your Gibson SG!

Why Choose Us?

Why Choose Us?

Why Choose Us?

Why Sell to Edgewater Guitars?

Top Dollar Offers

We don't have retail overhead costs, allowing us to pay more for your instruments than most guitar shops or pawn shops.

We Come To You

For valuable instruments, we'll travel throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia for in-person evaluations.

Fast & Simple Process

No waiting for your guitar to sell on consignment. Get an offer within hours and cash in hand as soon as same day.

Trusted Experts

Our team has decades of experience evaluating vintage and rare guitars, ensuring accurate assessments of your instrument's value.

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How it works

How it works

How it works

Selling your guitar is EASY

Design and Planning

01

01

Tell Us About Your Guitar

Share details and photos of your guitar through our simple form, text, or email.

Design and Planning

01

01

Tell Us About Your Guitar

Share details and photos of your guitar through our simple form, text, or email.

Design and Planning

01

01

Tell Us About Your Guitar

Share details and photos of your guitar through our simple form, text, or email.

Construction Management

02

02

Get Your Free Valuation

Our experts will assess your guitar and provide a fair cash offer based on current market value.

Construction Management

02

02

Get Your Free Valuation

Our experts will assess your guitar and provide a fair cash offer based on current market value.

Construction Management

02

02

Get Your Free Valuation

Our experts will assess your guitar and provide a fair cash offer based on current market value.

Site Preparation

03

03

Get Paid

Accept our offer and receive payment on the spot, by check, or via direct deposit.

Site Preparation

03

03

Get Paid

Accept our offer and receive payment on the spot, by check, or via direct deposit.

Site Preparation

03

03

Get Paid

Accept our offer and receive payment on the spot, by check, or via direct deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation do I need to sell my guitar?

No special documentation is required for most sales. For very valuable vintage instruments, any provenance or ownership history is helpful but not necessary. We handle all the paperwork to make selling easy.

What documentation do I need to sell my guitar?

No special documentation is required for most sales. For very valuable vintage instruments, any provenance or ownership history is helpful but not necessary. We handle all the paperwork to make selling easy.

What documentation do I need to sell my guitar?

No special documentation is required for most sales. For very valuable vintage instruments, any provenance or ownership history is helpful but not necessary. We handle all the paperwork to make selling easy.

Do you purchase other musical instruments?

While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

Do you purchase other musical instruments?

While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

Do you purchase other musical instruments?

While we specialize in guitars and amplifiers, we occasionally purchase other stringed instruments and related gear. Contact us with details of what you're selling.

How does your online appraisal process work?

Our online appraisal process is simple: submit clear photos of your instrument (front, back, headstock, serial number, and any damage), along with details about its history and condition. Our experts will evaluate the information and provide a fair market offer within 24-48 hours.

How does your online appraisal process work?

Our online appraisal process is simple: submit clear photos of your instrument (front, back, headstock, serial number, and any damage), along with details about its history and condition. Our experts will evaluate the information and provide a fair market offer within 24-48 hours.

How does your online appraisal process work?

Our online appraisal process is simple: submit clear photos of your instrument (front, back, headstock, serial number, and any damage), along with details about its history and condition. Our experts will evaluate the information and provide a fair market offer within 24-48 hours.

Do I need to clean or repair my guitar before selling it?

No, please don't make any repairs or even clean vintage instruments before contacting us. Original condition—even with dust, grime, or minor issues—is often preferable for accurate valuation. Improper cleaning can actually damage valuable finishes on vintage instruments.

Do I need to clean or repair my guitar before selling it?

No, please don't make any repairs or even clean vintage instruments before contacting us. Original condition—even with dust, grime, or minor issues—is often preferable for accurate valuation. Improper cleaning can actually damage valuable finishes on vintage instruments.

Do I need to clean or repair my guitar before selling it?

No, please don't make any repairs or even clean vintage instruments before contacting us. Original condition—even with dust, grime, or minor issues—is often preferable for accurate valuation. Improper cleaning can actually damage valuable finishes on vintage instruments.

Do you offer more for guitars with original cases?

Yes, original cases—especially for vintage instruments—can significantly increase value. 'Case candy' such as original paperwork, warranty cards, tags, and accessories also adds value. Keep everything together when selling for maximum return.

Do you offer more for guitars with original cases?

Yes, original cases—especially for vintage instruments—can significantly increase value. 'Case candy' such as original paperwork, warranty cards, tags, and accessories also adds value. Keep everything together when selling for maximum return.

Do you offer more for guitars with original cases?

Yes, original cases—especially for vintage instruments—can significantly increase value. 'Case candy' such as original paperwork, warranty cards, tags, and accessories also adds value. Keep everything together when selling for maximum return.

What payment methods do you offer?

We offer several secure payment options including cash (for in-person transactions), certified check, bank wire transfer, PayPal, or direct deposit. For high-value instruments or collections, we can accommodate special arrangements to ensure your comfort and security.

What payment methods do you offer?

We offer several secure payment options including cash (for in-person transactions), certified check, bank wire transfer, PayPal, or direct deposit. For high-value instruments or collections, we can accommodate special arrangements to ensure your comfort and security.

What payment methods do you offer?

We offer several secure payment options including cash (for in-person transactions), certified check, bank wire transfer, PayPal, or direct deposit. For high-value instruments or collections, we can accommodate special arrangements to ensure your comfort and security.

Selling Options

Selling Options

Selling Options

Multiple Ways To Sell

Sell Online

Submit photos and information through our secure form for a quick online valuation and offer.

Sell By Phone

Speak directly with our experts at (440) 219-3607 for immediate assistance and valuation.

In-Person Evaluation

Schedule an appointment for an in-person assessment of valuable or multiple instruments.