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.construction
In 1977, Gibson introduced the serialisation method that remains in use. This updated system uses an impressed eight digit numbering scheme that covers both numbering 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. |
....however, in 1994 all Gibsons had serial numbers starting 94xxxxxx - so watch out you early NightHawk owners
Example - my BluesHawk has the serial number 92018493 - it was therefore, made on the 201st day - 17th July, of the year 1998, and was the 493 instrument stamped that day.
 | Lambros' NightHawk - serial 93546488 - was made on the 21st December (day 354) of 1996 - and was the 488th instrument stamped that day | |
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For more detail - download this extract from the Blue Book of Electric guitars in .pdf form
