For example, after 1969, it’s unlikely your guitar would have a label saying it was made overseas, but you might have a seven-digit serial number that could tell that story. There is a controversial Epiphone guitar using LU serial number. Norlin acquired CMI and moved all of the production of Epiphone to Japan and subsequently to Korea.ĭuring each of these transitions, there were also changes made to how the instruments were labeled, which is part of the reason why the serial number identification process is so confusing. Ltd., established in 1970 in Busan, South Korea. As they already owned Gibson, this merge brought the two powerful brand names under one umbrella. In 1957, the Chicago Musical Instrument Company (CMI) acquired Epiphone.

They grew in popularity and by the 1950’s, became Gibson’s main rival. On-par with Gibsons Super 400, but not nearly as collectible because the Epi name just doesnt have the collectibility Gibson has. In the 1930’s, they switched up their business model and began producing high-end guitars, and became the only manufacturer to successfully make the transition. Product Registration Customer Service Report Counterfeits Serial Number FAQ Gibson Guitar Specs (2015-2019). To understand the significance of the Epiphone serial number, we first need to look at how their company historyintertwines with that of Gibson.Įpiphone started as a family business in 1873 as a luxury banjo manufacturer.

Gibson epiphone banjo serial numbers