Spotting fakes

1. Serial and year. Use our decode. A serial format from the wrong era, a 1976 Gibson with a 1980s serial, or a font that does not match the maker's stamp, are warnings.
2. Headstock. Compare the shape, angle, logo inlay and truss rod cover with known examples from that year. Copies often get the proportions slightly wrong.
3. Neck heel and joint. Gibson set necks have a heel shape typical of the period. Bolt-on necks carry date stamps on the heel.
4. Cavity. Pot codes should date shortly before the serial year. Look for factory solder, not fresh shiny joints.
5. Hardware. Tuners, bridge and pickups should be right for the year, or listed as changed.
6. Finish. Look for overspray, sharp edges where logos meet the finish, and natural checking versus faked aging.
7. Price. Far below the market is a reason to ask more questions.
8. Proof photo. Every listing has a photo of the guitar beside a paper with a code we issued. It shows the seller has the guitar now.

See something wrong? Use "Report this listing". To report a stolen guitar, tell us the serial.