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Gibson BR-9 Dating Help!
Posted: 8 Nov 2020 2:25 pm
by 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!
Posted: 8 Nov 2020 3:25 pm
by 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.
Posted: 9 Nov 2020 9:25 am
by 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!
Posted: 9 Nov 2020 1:09 pm
by 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.
Posted: 10 Nov 2020 6:25 am
by Mark Mansueto
My 59 had a serial # stamped on the end of the headstock. Wasn't real obvious.