I got this off the Gibson web site. In 1977, Gibson introduced the serialization method that we primarily use to this day at Gibson USA, Gibson Acoustic, and the Gibson Custom facility in Memphis, TN. The serial number will be an 8 digit number impressed into the back of the headstock with "MADE IN USA" below. The pattern is as follows: YDDDYRRR YY is the production year DDD is the day of the year This would indicate your guitar was built in 1981
The Gibson Epiphone Special model, known for its simplicity and affordability, was first introduced in the late 1950s. The most recognized version is the Epiphone Les Paul Special, which gained popularity in the 1960s. Over the years, various iterations and reissues have been produced, with notable models emerging in the 1990s and 2000s. The exact year of a specific model can vary, so it's essential to check the serial number for precise dating.
I dont know What is most popular but the most common are fender, gibson, marshall, and epiphone.
1953 www.jedistar.com
Your guitar was made at the Nashville Plant, TN, USA on October 11th, 1996 Production Number: 262 Information obtained from the guitar dater project (links are not allowed, but google can sort it out for you).
The phone number of the Gibson Branch is: 985-575-2639.
Taj Gibson is number 22 on the Chicago Bulls.
John Gibson is number 36 on the Anaheim Ducks.
Kyle Gibson is number 44 on the Minnesota Twins.
Brandon Gibson is number 10 on the Miami Dolphins.
The phone number of the Gibson Library is: 702-565-8402.
The phone number of the Ft. Gibson - Q.B. Boydstun Library is: 918-478-3587.
The phone number of the Gibson House Museum is: 617-267-6338.
The phone number of the Gibson County Memorial Library is: 731-855-1991.
The phone number of the Roland Gibson Art Gallery is: 315-267-2481.
The phone number of the Matilda J. Gibson Memorial Library is: 641-782-2277.
The phone number of the Charles W. Gibson Public Library is: 304-472-2339.