Vintage Guitar Identification Guide
Learn the terminology, history, and identification techniques used by collectors and dealers to date and evaluate vintage guitars.
What Is a PAF Pickup?
The PAF (Patent Applied For) is Gibson's original humbucker, hand-wound 1957–1962. The holy grail of guitar pickups and the sound of the Les Paul Burst.
What Is a Burst Guitar?
A 'Burst' is a 1958–1960 Gibson Les Paul Standard with flame maple top and sunburst finish. The most valuable guitars ever made.
What Is Pre-CBS Fender?
Pre-CBS Fender means guitars made before CBS bought Fender in January 1965. Why these Stratocasters and Telecasters command top dollar.
How to Read Gibson Serial Numbers
Date any Gibson guitar using serial numbers, FON stamps, and pot codes. Covers all systems from pre-war through modern production.
What Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer?
Nitrocellulose lacquer is the original finish on vintage Gibson, Fender, and Martin guitars. Why collectors prize nitro over modern polyester.
Have a Vintage Guitar to Identify?
Use our serial number lookup tool to date and value your guitar instantly.