Gibson BR-9 Dating Help!

[Ethan Seay]

I just picked up a vintage Gibson BR-9 but cant figure out what year it is based off the pot codes. Can someone help me with this?

Pot Code: EP086 500K 1646 CTS

Thanks!

[John Dahms]

In cases where the pot codes don't help, BR9s can be dated by features. Adjustable or non-adjustable P90 polepieces, smooth or crinkle finish and slightly different body contour shape will nail it down. Post a pic if you can.

[Michael Butler]

post a pic here. the admin has several versions of gibson lap steels.

https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=g ... %20guitars

play music!

[Garry Vanderlinde]

I've been stymied by old pot codes too. Maybe the best you can do is approximate the years.
Found this online from the Vintage Guitar Info Guy:

Model: BR-9 LapSteel
Available: 1947 to 1959

* 1947 BR-9 LapSteel introduction specs: 
graduated 3-bout body, brown plastic pickup/bridge cover, 2 white radio knobs on same side, pickup with non-adjustable poles, open-block fingerboard markers with numbers, beige finish, brown fingerboard and trim.

* 

1950 BR-9 LapSteel specs: 
adjustable pickup poles. 

BR-9 discontinued 1959.

[Mark Mansueto]

My 59 had a serial # stamped on the end of the headstock. Wasn't real obvious.