1965 Gibson SG

Check the serial number on the back of the headstock — ink-stamped numbers should fall within documented ranges for 1965. Potentiometer date codes are critical: look for CTS pots (code 137) with two-digit year codes matching 1965 or up to 18 months earlier. This is the most reliable dating method for Gibson guitars of this era. The finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer showing age-appropriate checking (fine crazing). Under blacklight, original nitro fluoresces a distinctive green-yellow — refinished instruments lack this characteristic. Verify original humbuckers — check baseplate markings and construction details consistent with 1965 production. Thin mahogany body, devil-horn cutaway. Check for headstock repairs — SG's thin neck joint is fragile. Cherry red finish should show fading toward orange-pink. Original Kluson Deluxe should be present with no evidence of replacement (no oversized bushing holes). Original hardshell case adds provenance value.