1969 Gibson SG

Check the serial number on the back of the headstock — ink-stamped numbers should fall within documented ranges for 1969. Potentiometer date codes are critical: look for CTS pots (code 137) with two-digit year codes matching 1969 or up to 18 months earlier. This is the most reliable dating method for Gibson guitars of this era. Gibson used nitrocellulose lacquer through the late 1960s. Check for natural checking and wear patterns. Under UV light, original finishes fluoresce differently than refinishes. Verify original humbuckers — check baseplate markings and construction details consistent with 1969 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 or Grover should be present with no evidence of replacement (no oversized bushing holes). Original hardshell case adds provenance value.