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Epiphone Serial Number Lookup: Decode Your Guitar Instantly

An Epiphone serial number lookup is the fastest way to identify when and where your guitar was made. Epiphone has produced guitars in Japan, Korea, China, Indonesia, and even the USA since the 1970s—and each factory used different serial formats. Whether you own a modern Les Paul Standard from the Qingdao factory or a vintage Japanese-made Epiphone, the serial number holds the key.

Use the free Epiphone serial number lookup tool above to instantly decode your serial number. It covers Chinese (Qingdao), Korean (Unsung, Saein, Samick), Japanese (Terada, Matsumoku), and Indonesian models—no sign-up required. Enter your number and get production year, factory location, and era in seconds.

At OwningAFender.com, we're the guitar serial number experts—and that expertise extends well beyond Fender. Our free Epiphone serial number checker covers every major production era and factory.

Part 1: Where Is My Epiphone Serial Number?

Before you can run an Epiphone serial number lookup, you need to find the number. Epiphone has used several locations over the decades.

Back of Headstock (Most Common): The vast majority of Epiphone guitars—especially modern models from China and Indonesia—have the serial number printed or stamped on the back of the headstock. Look near the top, often in small text below the "Epiphone" logo. This is the first place to check for any Epiphone made after the mid-1990s.

Label Inside Body (Acoustics and Semi-Hollows): Epiphone acoustic guitars and semi-hollow models (Casino, Sheraton, Dot) often have the serial number on a label inside the soundhole or f-hole. Use a mirror and flashlight to read it clearly.

Neck Joint / Heel: Some older Epiphone models, particularly Japanese production from the 1970s-1980s, have serial numbers or date codes stamped on the neck heel—the part that sits inside the body pocket. You may need to remove the neck to see it.

Pickguard or Control Cavity: In rare cases, particularly on vintage models, additional identification numbers may appear under the pickguard or inside the control cavity.

Pro tip: Serial numbers can be faint, especially on older guitars. Use good lighting and a magnifying glass if needed. On modern Chinese Epiphones, the serial is typically printed in white or silver ink on the back of the headstock.

Epiphone Serial Number Checker

The tool at the top of this page is a free Epiphone serial number checker. Enter your serial number and it instantly returns your guitar's production year, manufacturing location, factory name, and era. No sign-up required—use it as often as you need to verify a single guitar or compare multiple instruments.

What's Next? Now that you know your guitar's year, the next step is setting it up to play its best. Factory specs—action height, pickup height, neck relief—vary between Epiphone eras and models. A 1990s Korean Les Paul needs different measurements than a 2024 Inspired by Gibson. Want to dial in the right specs? Check out our Action Height Guide and Truss Rod Adjustment Guide.

Part 2: Modern Chinese Serial Numbers (2008-Present) — The F-Prefix

The vast majority of Epiphone guitars sold today are made at the Qingdao factory in China, Gibson's primary Epiphone production facility. These use the F-prefix format.

The Format Explained

Total length: 11 characters (F + 10 digits).

Worked Examples

• F1501234567: F = Qingdao, 15 = 2015, 01 = January, 234567 = production number → January 2015, Qingdao China
• F2003123456: F = Qingdao, 20 = 2020, 03 = March → March 2020, Qingdao China
• F2412345678: F = Qingdao, 24 = 2024, 12 = December → December 2024, Qingdao China

What Models Use This Format?

Nearly all current Epiphone models use the F-prefix format, including:

• Les Paul Standard, Custom, and Studio
• SG Standard and Special
• Casino and Sheraton
• Hummingbird and J-45 acoustics
• Inspired by Gibson collection (2020+)
• ES-335 and other semi-hollows

Part 3: Older Chinese Serial Numbers (Late 1990s-2008)

Before the F-prefix era, Epiphone used several letter prefixes for Chinese production.

S, R, T Prefixes

These single-letter prefixes followed by digits indicate Chinese production from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s.

Format: Prefix + YY (year) + MM (month) + RRRR (production number).

EE Prefix

The EE prefix indicates early Epiphone Chinese production. Format: EE + YY + MM + RRRR.

Example: EE0312345 = 2003, Chinese production.

Part 4: Korean Serial Numbers (1980s-2000s)

Korean production was a major chapter in Epiphone's history. Several factories produced Epiphone guitars from the mid-1980s through the early 2000s.

Unsung Factory (U Prefix)

The U prefix is the most common Korean Epiphone serial format. Unsung was one of Epiphone's primary Korean manufacturers.

Example: U0312345 = March 2003, Unsung factory, Korea.

Saein Factory (SI / SJ Prefix)

The SI and SJ prefixes indicate the Saein factory in Korea.

Example: SI0512345 = 2005, Saein factory, Korea.

Samick Factory (SM Prefix)

The SM prefix indicates the Samick factory in Korea.

Example: SM9812345 = 1998, Samick factory, Korea.

Korean Era Reference Table

Part 5: Japanese Serial Numbers (1970s-1980s) — The Collectible Era

Japanese Epiphones from the 1970s and 1980s are among the most sought-after Epiphone guitars ever made. They were built by respected factories including Matsumoku and Terada.

Matsumoku Factory (MR Prefix)

The MR prefix indicates production at the Matsumoku factory in Matsumoto, Japan. Matsumoku produced Epiphone guitars from the early 1970s until the factory closed in 1986.

Example: MR12345 = Matsumoku, Japan (1970-1986).

J Prefix (Generic Japan)

The J prefix indicates Japanese production, typically at Terada or other Japanese factories.

Example: J123456 = Japan, 1970s-1990s.

Numeric Only (Vintage Japanese)

Some early Japanese Epiphones used purely numeric serial numbers with 6-7 digits. These are the hardest to date precisely and often require cross-referencing with physical features.

Why Japanese Epiphones Are Collectible: Matsumoku and Terada applied excellent craftsmanship to Epiphone models. Thin finishes, quality hardware, and solid construction make these guitars comparable to much more expensive instruments. The Matsumoku factory's closure in 1986 adds scarcity value.

Part 6: Indonesian Serial Numbers

Indonesia has become a production location for some Epiphone models, particularly in the 2000s and 2010s.

Format

I + factory code + YY + MM + RRRR

Factory codes: S = Samick Indonesia, C = Cort Indonesia.

Example: IS1201234 = 2012, Samick Indonesia.

Part 7: USA-Made Epiphone (Rare)

In rare cases, some Epiphone models have been produced at Gibson's USA facilities (Nashville or Kalamazoo). These use the same 8-digit or 9-digit serial format as Gibson guitars (YDDDYRRR or YDDDYBRRR). If your Epiphone has a numeric-only 8-9 digit serial and says "Made in USA," it may use Gibson's format.

These are uncommon and typically limited to special editions or the Epiphone USA collection launched in recent years.

Serial Prefix Quick Reference

Complete reference table for all Epiphone serial number prefixes:

How to Read Your Epiphone Serial Number: Step-by-Step

Follow this process to decode any Epiphone from the 1970s onward.

1. Locate the serial number on the back of the headstock, inside the body (acoustics/semi-hollows), or on the neck heel.
2. Check for letter prefixes. F = modern Chinese (Qingdao). U = Korean (Unsung). SI/SJ = Korean (Saein). SM = Korean (Samick). MR = Japanese (Matsumoku). J = Japanese (Terada).
3. For F-prefix (modern): Positions 2-3 = year, positions 4-5 = month, positions 6-11 = production number.
4. For Korean prefixes (U, SI, SJ, SM): Positions after prefix: YY = year, MM = month, RRRR = production.
5. For numeric-only serials: Likely Japanese vintage. Check physical features and "Made in" label.
6. Verify with the "Made in" label. The country on the label should match the serial prefix.

Pro tip: If the serial doesn't match any format, the guitar may be a special edition, prototype, or—in rare cases—counterfeit. Check the physical features and consult the troubleshooting guide below.

Epiphone vs Gibson: Understanding the Relationship

Many guitar owners wonder about the relationship between Epiphone and Gibson. Understanding this helps you interpret your serial number correctly.

Epiphone is owned by Gibson. Gibson acquired Epiphone in 1957. Since then, Epiphone has served as Gibson's more affordable brand, producing budget-friendly versions of Gibson's iconic designs (Les Paul, SG, Casino, ES-335).

Different serial systems. Despite being owned by Gibson, Epiphone uses completely different serial number formats. Gibson uses numeric formats (8-digit YDDDYRRR, 9-digit variants). Epiphone uses letter prefixes (F, U, SI, SM, etc.). The only exception: rare USA-made Epiphones may use Gibson's numeric format.

Different factories. Gibson guitars are made in Nashville, TN (electrics) and Bozeman, MT (acoustics). Epiphone guitars are primarily made in Qingdao, China, with historical production in Korea, Japan, and Indonesia.

Quality tiers. Gibson is the premium brand ($1,500-$5,000+ for production models). Epiphone is the affordable alternative ($200-$800 for production models). The "Inspired by Gibson" collection (2020+) narrowed this gap significantly with improved specs.

How this affects serial lookups: If you have a guitar with a Gibson headstock logo and a numeric serial, use our Gibson Serial Number Lookup. If it has an Epiphone logo with a letter prefix, use this page. If you're unsure which brand you have, check the headstock logo carefully.

Epiphone Model Guide: What Your Serial Number Tells You About Your Guitar

Once you've decoded your serial number, understanding your Epiphone's model tier helps you assess its value and specs.

Les Paul Models

The Epiphone Les Paul is the most popular Epiphone model. Several tiers exist:

• Les Paul Standard — The flagship Epiphone. ProBucker pickups, set neck, flame maple veneer top. F-prefix (modern) or U/SI/SM (Korean era). $300-$500 new.
• Les Paul Custom — Upgraded version with gold hardware, multi-ply binding, and premium pickups. Higher resale value than Standard.
• Les Paul Studio — Stripped-down version without binding. Lower price point, good player's guitar.
• Les Paul Special — Single-cutaway, P-90 pickups. Budget-friendly.
• Les Paul Junior — Single pickup, simple electronics. Great for punk and blues.

SG Models

• SG Standard — Double-cutaway, dual humbuckers. Lightweight and comfortable.
• SG Special — Budget version with simpler specs.
• SG Custom — Premium version with 3 pickups and gold hardware.

Semi-Hollow and Hollow Body

• Casino — Fully hollow, P-90 pickups. Made famous by The Beatles. Higher collectibility and resale value.
• Sheraton — Semi-hollow, dual humbuckers. Premium Epiphone model.
• Dot (ES-335) — Semi-hollow, dual humbuckers. Affordable ES-335 alternative.
• ES-339 — Smaller semi-hollow body. Modern design.

Acoustic Models

• Hummingbird — Dreadnought acoustic. Gibson's iconic design at Epiphone prices.
• J-45 — Round-shoulder dreadnought. Warm, balanced tone.
• DR-100 — Entry-level dreadnought. Budget-friendly.

Just Got a Used Epiphone?

If you're looking up a serial number, you probably just bought a used guitar—congratulations! The next step is getting it set up properly. Used guitars almost always need a fresh setup after changing hands.

Why used guitars need setup:

• Previous owner's string gauge and action preferences may not match yours
• Shipping and climate changes affect neck relief
• Strings are probably due for a change
• Epiphone factory setups are often conservative—a custom setup unlocks the guitar's potential

Your next steps:

1. Check Action Height — Learn the correct action for your playing style
2. Adjust Truss Rod — Dial in the right neck relief
3. Choose the Right Strings — String gauge affects tone and playability
4. Check Factory Specs — Find the exact specs for your model
5. Add to My Garage — Track your guitar's setup history

What's Your Epiphone Worth?

Serial numbers help determine a guitar's age, but condition and playability are what really drive value. A well-setup guitar with proper action and intonation can sell for 10-20% more than one that plays poorly.

Key factors that affect Epiphone value:

• Model — Casino and Sheraton command premiums over Standard models
• Country of origin — Japan > Korea > China for collectibility
• Condition — All-original parts and clean finish add significant value
• "Inspired by Gibson" — 2020+ models hold value better than pre-2020

If you're selling or just want your guitar playing its best, a proper setup is the highest-ROI improvement you can make.

Tools for Evaluating an Epiphone

Whether you're buying, selling, or just checking your guitar's condition, these tools help verify setup and authenticity:

Authentication Tips: Spotting Fake Epiphones

Serial numbers are your first line of defense against counterfeits. Fake Epiphones are common, especially for popular models like the Les Paul and Casino.

Red flags:

• Format doesn't match the "Made in" label. A guitar labeled "Made in China" should have an F-prefix (modern) or S/R/T/EE prefix (older). A "Made in Korea" guitar should have U, SI, SJ, or SM prefix.
• Serial length is wrong. Modern F-prefix serials are exactly 11 characters. If yours is significantly shorter or longer, verify carefully.
• Font and printing quality. Genuine Epiphone serials are cleanly printed. Blurry, smudged, or poorly aligned text is suspicious.
• Physical features don't match the era. A serial suggesting 2020 production but with hardware and specs from a different era is concerning.

Verification steps:

1. Run the serial through our decoder above. Does the result match the guitar's apparent age and features?
2. Check the "Made in" label. Does the country match the serial prefix?
3. Compare logo style, tuners, and hardware to known examples from that year on Epiphone's official site or Reverb listings.
4. For high-value models (Casino, Sheraton, Japanese-era), consider professional authentication.

Serial Number Mysteries Solved: Real Case Studies

Case Study 1: The "Wrong Country" Les Paul

The Mystery: An Epiphone Les Paul Standard with serial F2001234567. The owner was confused because the guitar said "Made in China" but they expected Epiphone Les Pauls to be Korean.

The Investigation: The F-prefix indicates Qingdao, China production. Epiphone moved the majority of production to China (Qingdao) starting around 2004-2008.

The Solution: This was a legitimate 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Standard from the Qingdao factory. Since 2008, virtually all standard Epiphone models are made in China. Korean production ended for most models in the mid-2000s.

Takeaway: Modern Epiphones are primarily Chinese-made. Korean Epiphones are from an earlier era (1980s-2000s).

Case Study 2: The Valuable Matsumoku Find

The Mystery: An Epiphone found at a thrift store for $50 with serial MR23456. The owner thought it was a cheap guitar.

The Investigation: The MR prefix indicates Matsumoku factory, Japan (1970-1986). These are collectible instruments with excellent craftsmanship.

The Solution: The guitar was a 1970s-era Japanese Epiphone worth $400-$1,200+ depending on model and condition. Matsumoku-era Epiphones are well-regarded by collectors and players.

Takeaway: Japanese Epiphones with MR prefix are hidden gems. Always check the serial before dismissing an older Epiphone.

Case Study 3: The Korean vs Chinese S-Prefix Confusion

The Mystery: An Epiphone SG with serial S0312345. The owner couldn't determine if it was Korean or Chinese.

The Investigation: The single "S" prefix was used for both Korean Samick (1980s-early 2000s) and Chinese Samick (2000s+). The transition happened around 2001-2002.

The Solution: The "03" year digits and "Made in China" label confirmed this was a 2003 Chinese Samick production. Korean S-prefix guitars are typically from the 1980s-1990s.

Takeaway: The "Made in" label is the tiebreaker when S-prefix serials are ambiguous between Korea and China.

Case Study 4: The Fake Casino

The Mystery: An "Epiphone Casino" listed online for $200 with serial F1801234567. The price seemed too good.

The Investigation: The serial format was correct for 2018 Qingdao production. However, physical inspection revealed ceramic pickups (Casinos use P-90s), a bolt-on neck (Casinos are set-neck), and incorrect headstock binding.

The Solution: The serial was real but applied to a different, cheaper Epiphone body. The seller had swapped the headstock decal or used a serial from a different guitar.

Takeaway: Serial numbers can be transferred or faked. Always verify physical features match the claimed model, especially for premium Epiphone models.

Value by Serial Number: What's Your Epiphone Worth?

Serial number dating is the first step to valuing your Epiphone. Once you know the year and factory, you can estimate market value.

Japanese Era (1970s-1986)

Japanese Epiphones command the highest prices in the used market.

• Matsumoku-era (MR prefix): $400-$1,500+ depending on model and condition
• Terada-era (J prefix): $300-$1,000+
• Key models: Casino, Sheraton, Emperor, Riviera
• Value factor: All-original examples with cases command premium prices

Korean Era (1980s-2000s)

Korean Epiphones offer excellent value and moderate collectibility.

• Unsung factory (U prefix): $150-$500
• Samick factory (SM/S prefix): $100-$400
• Saein factory (SI/SJ prefix): $150-$450
• Key models: Les Paul Standard, SG, Casino
• Value factor: Late 1990s Korean models are often preferred by players for build quality

Chinese Era (2000s-Present)

Modern Chinese Epiphones are the most common and offer the best value for money.

• Older Chinese (S/R/T/EE prefix): $100-$300 used
• Modern Qingdao (F prefix): $150-$500 used
• Inspired by Gibson collection (2020+): $250-$600 used
• Key models: Les Paul Standard, SG Standard, Casino, ES-335
• Value factor: "Inspired by Gibson" models (2020+) hold value best due to improved specs

Factors That Affect Epiphone Value

Condition is the most important factor. Mint examples command 20-30% premiums over "good" condition.

Model matters significantly. Casino, Sheraton, and Les Paul Custom hold value better than Standard or Special models.

Country of origin affects collectibility. Japan > Korea > China for collector value, though modern Chinese quality is excellent.

Originality matters for Japanese and Korean models. Original pickups, hardware, and finish add value. Mods on modern Chinese models rarely hurt value.

"Inspired by Gibson" designation (2020+) commands higher used prices due to improved headstock shape, specs, and hardware.

Decade-by-Decade: What Your Epiphone Serial Number Reveals

Troubleshooting Guide

Can't Find Your Serial Number

Check all common locations: back of headstock first, then inside the soundhole (acoustics/semi-hollows), then neck heel. Use good lighting and a magnifying glass. Serial numbers can be small and faint, especially on older guitars.

Serial Number Is Worn or Faded

Modern F-prefix serials are printed in ink and can fade over time. Try different lighting angles. UV light can sometimes reveal faded ink. Take a photo and enhance contrast digitally. Even partial characters can help narrow down the format.

Serial Doesn't Match Any Format

Epiphone serials vary widely by factory and era. If the lookup tool returns "Unknown Format," compare your serial to the prefix tables above. Check for non-standard prefixes. If you suspect it might be a Gibson, try the Gibson Serial Number Lookup.

Ambiguous S-Prefix

The "S" prefix was used for both Korean Samick (1980s-early 2000s) and Chinese Samick (2000s+). Check the "Made in" label on the guitar to determine the country. Korean production typically ended by 2002-2003 for most models.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the Epiphone serial number lookup?

Use the free tool at the top of this page. Enter your serial number exactly as it appears on your guitar. Click Decode to get production year, factory, and era. No sign-up required.

What is an Epiphone serial number decoder?

An Epiphone serial number decoder is a tool that interprets the characters in your serial number to determine production year, factory location, and country of origin. Our decoder covers Chinese (Qingdao), Korean, Japanese, and Indonesian formats from the 1970s to present.

Where is the Epiphone serial number?

On most Epiphones, the serial number is on the back of the headstock. Acoustic and semi-hollow models may have it on a label inside the soundhole or f-hole. Some vintage Japanese models have it on the neck heel.

How do I date an Epiphone guitar?

For modern Epiphones (2008+), use our lookup tool—the F-prefix format directly encodes year and month. For older models, match your serial prefix to the reference tables in this guide. Korean models use U, SI, SJ, or SM prefixes; Japanese models use MR, J, or numeric-only formats.

Is there a free Epiphone serial number checker?

Yes. The tool at the top of this page is a free Epiphone serial number checker. Enter your serial for instant results—production year, factory, and era. No sign-up or payment required. It covers China, Korea, Japan, and Indonesia models.

What does the F mean in my Epiphone serial number?

The "F" stands for the Qingdao factory in China (historically referred to as the "FuQi" factory). This is Gibson's primary Epiphone production facility and has been the main source of Epiphone guitars since approximately 2008.

Are Korean Epiphones better than Chinese?

Quality has improved significantly at the Qingdao factory, especially with the "Inspired by Gibson" collection (2020+). Late 1990s Korean Epiphones are well-regarded, but modern Chinese Epiphones offer excellent value and consistent quality. The gap has narrowed considerably.

How much is my Epiphone worth?

Value depends on model, year, condition, and country of origin. Japanese Epiphones (1970s-1986) range from $400-$1,500+. Korean models (1980s-2000s) range from $100-$500. Modern Chinese models (2008+) range from $150-$600 used. The "Inspired by Gibson" collection holds value best among modern models.

What year is my Epiphone with serial starting with F?

The two digits after "F" indicate the year. F15 = 2015, F20 = 2020, F24 = 2024. The next two digits indicate the month (01-12). Use our decoder above for instant results.

Are old Epiphone guitars worth anything?

Yes. Japanese Epiphones from the 1970s-1980s (Matsumoku and Terada factories) are collectible and can sell for $400-$1,500+. Korean Epiphones from the 1990s have moderate collectibility. Even modern Epiphones hold value well for their price point.

What's the difference between Epiphone and Gibson serial numbers?

Epiphone and Gibson use completely different serial formats. Epiphone uses letter prefixes (F, U, SI, SM, etc.) while Gibson uses numeric formats (8-digit YDDDYRRR, 9-digit variants). A rare exception: USA-made Epiphones may use Gibson's numeric format. Check the headstock logo to confirm which brand you have.

How do I tell if my Epiphone is real?

Check that the serial format matches the "Made in" label (F-prefix = China, U = Korea, MR/J = Japan). Verify the headstock logo, hardware, and pickups match the claimed model. Compare to official Epiphone product photos. For high-value models, consider professional authentication.

What is the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson collection?

Launched in 2020, the "Inspired by Gibson" collection features improved specs including the Gibson-style open-book headstock, better pickups, and upgraded hardware. These models use F-prefix serials (F20+ onwards) and represent the best value in the current Epiphone lineup.

Can I date my Epiphone by the potentiometer codes?

Yes. Potentiometer codes can help verify serial number dating. The format typically includes manufacturer code + year + week. Remove the control cavity cover to inspect. If the pot date matches the serial year, you have additional confirmation.

Does Epiphone have an official serial number lookup?

Epiphone/Gibson offers limited serial lookup through their customer service, but no comprehensive public tool. Our decoder provides detailed results including factory identification, month of production, and era classification—all for free.

Recommended Strings for Epiphone Guitars

Now that you know your guitar's production year, you can choose strings that suit its era and construction. Epiphone guitars—whether Les Paul, SG, or Casino—typically use 10-46 gauge strings from the factory.

For Les Paul and SG models (humbuckers): 10-46 is the standard. If you play heavier styles, consider 11-48 for fuller tone and better tuning stability with the shorter 24.75" scale length.

For Casino and semi-hollow models: 10-46 or 11-48 work well. The hollow body amplifies string vibration, so lighter gauges can still produce full tone.

For acoustic models (Hummingbird, J-45): 12-53 light gauge phosphor bronze is standard. Some players prefer 11-52 custom light for easier playability.

Learn more about choosing the right gauge in our String Gauge Guide or use the String Gauge Recommendation Tool.

Cross-Links: More Serial Number Resources

We're the guitar serial number experts—and we cover more than Epiphone. If you own multiple brands, these tools will help:

• Fender Serial Number Lookup — Decode USA, Mexico, Japan, and Squier from 1950 to present
• Gibson Serial Number Lookup — Decode Gibson guitars from Nashville, Kalamazoo, Bozeman, and Custom Shop
• Squier Serial Number Lookup — Identify Squier production year and factory
• Ibanez Serial Number Lookup — Decode Ibanez guitars from FujiGen, Cort, and other factories
• Factory Specs Lookup — Find nut width, fretboard radius, and setup specs for your model

Setup & Maintenance Guides

• Action Height Guide — Learn how to measure and adjust string action
• Truss Rod Adjustment — Safely adjust neck relief for optimal playability
• String Gauge Guide — Choose the right strings for your playing style
• Action Height Calculator — Calculate ideal action for your setup
• String Gauge Recommendation — Get personalized string suggestions
• Les Paul Setup Guide — Complete setup walkthrough for Les Paul-style guitars

More Tools

• My Gear Tracker — Save your guitar's serial number, specs, and setup history
• How to Use Serial Number Lookup — Detailed guide for all brands

Whether you're dating a Les Paul, a Strat, or an RG, we've got you covered.

Tags

• Epiphone
• Guitar Setup
• Buyer's Guide