It looks like Gibson has changed their serial number scheme

[the mojo hobo]

And not documented on Gibson's web site, but it looks like all the 2014 models at Sweetwater have serial numbers starting 14000.

[dadagoboi]

Maybe it has something to do with their new pricing:  Thunderbirds are $1995 street, $3200 list.

[66Atlas]

Off the release for the 2014's it was listed under "Innovations" with the tag line - "New Model Year serial numbering system enhances collectability"....

They also listed newly improved "Non-slip knobs"...that one made me chuckle for some reason.

[the mojo hobo]

OK, I found the "New Model Year serial numbering system enhances collectability" But how does that work?

Apparently this page needs updating: http://www2.gibson.com/Support/Serial-Number-Search.aspx

[Pilgrim]

OK, I found the "New Model Year serial numbering system enhances collectability" But how does that work?

No kidding.  What dingbat thought that one up?

[LoEndMaestro]

I just purchased an SG from Sweetwater & the serial number does indeed begin with 1400.

[Dave W]

No kidding.  What dingbat thought that one up?

The same dingbat who thought the Fireturd X would take the guitar world by storm. And who probably thinks a few annual cosmetic changes will get people to buy a new model every year.

[Highlander]

Excluding fins, works on a certain Teutonic Gent known to this fraternity...

[the mojo hobo]

Next thing you know will be someone saying that they don't collect for serial numbers.

[LoEndMaestro]

I got suckered in by the snazzy inlay.

[dadagoboi]

I got suckered in by the snazzy inlay.

I bet a '61 would be worth a lot more if it had one of those.

[LoEndMaestro]

but this one has non slip knobs.

[Dave W]

I got suckered in by the snazzy inlay.

But if they change the inlay a little every year, you're not going to tell yourself that you have to have this year's new model.

[66Atlas]

The Frets new and improved this year too 

I really dont understand how they think tiny little changes like serial number formats would enhance collectablity but I've long since given up trying to predict or understand what Gibson does.

I do hope they keep offering different fins each year, I'd be a sucker for an Inverness Green bird....granted, I'll probably be the only person that buys one. 

[LoEndMaestro]

Yeah, it certainly wasn't any of the special, ceremonial, touched by angels appointments that influenced my decision to buy.

I've always wanted a short scale Gibby, me loves the SG/EB 3 look, I got a sweet deal on it, and most importantly.... the wife said yes.

She frequently shoots down my short scale offerings. Usually late in the evening...