Dating a vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior
Dating a vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior typically involves examining the serial number and other identifying features of the guitar. Here are the steps to help you date a vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior:
Look for the serial number - The serial number is usually located on the back of the headstock. In general, Gibson Les Paul Junior guitars made between 1954 and 1961 have a 5 or 6-digit serial number stamped on the back of the headstock.The first digit of this kind of serial number indicates the last digit of the year it was made. So if the serial number starts with a '6' your Junior was made in 1956. From 1961 to 1975, the serial number was typically six digits and impressed stamped on the back. From 1969 you can find Made in the USA below the serial.
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Check the potentiometers - The potentiometers, or pots, are the small knobs on the guitar that control the volume and tone. Gibson used CTS pots with date codes during the 1950s and 1960s, which can help determine the age of the guitar. You can check the date code by removing the pot from the guitar and looking for a code stamped.
Below a 1957 Pot
Look at the pickup - The Gibson Les Paul Junior typically features a single P-90 pickup. The P-90 pickup was used by Gibson from the late 1940s through the 1950s.
Examine the logo - The Gibson logo has gone through several variations over the years. In general, the logo on a vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior will be a gold decal with the word "Gibson" written in cursive. You can also find the typical Les Paul Junior silkscreen below the Gibson logo.
Check for other identifying features - There may be other features that can help you determine the age of the guitar, such as the type of tuners: Single line Kluson Deluxe , the type of bridge: wrap around bridge, or the type of finish: 2 tone sunburst or cherry red
By examining these factors, you can get a better idea of the age and authenticity of a vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior. Keep in mind that there are many factors that can affect the value of a vintage guitar, so it's always a good idea to consult with a professional appraiser or vintage guitar dealer.
We at Know Your Vintage guitars are happy to help you dating your guitar.
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I want to date my vintage Gibson Les Paul Junior
Klik hier als u hulp nodig heeft bij de waardebepaling van uw oude Gibson, Fender of Martin