Dating a gibson

[Gibsony]

Hi, This is long shot but I was told someone on this site might be able to help me put a date on my Gibson Les Paul ( once gold top, now wood finish) I tried to find out on Gibson site and a few others, but got down the list as far as 1968 which had numbers 970000-972864 there was then a gap to the 1970s when there was a totally different numbering system.The number on the back of my head stock is 978047, so assuming it is 1969 but wondering why there is no mention of that number or year. Much obliged for any help. Steve

[Gibsony]

Ha Ha, I thought it might get you going. Thanks all, I've found what I needed. I havent been playing a very convincing fake for 40 years. Just a shame I've stripped it, changed pickups and generally mullered it. This all still sounds full of innuendo.

[Gibsony]

Hi, again. It wasnt vintage when I stripped it in 1972. It's only now that I realise what a complete numpty I was. Thanks for all your help anyway. I found a guy who runs www.latesixtieslespauls.com who was a great help, dated it early 68.

[Gibsony]

I love that. What a great Ad it would make. Me with three tons of curly hair, and paint remover, looking all pleased with myself. Cut to forty years later, bald, and looking at the price tag on a vintage 68 first series gold top. Cut to a few puffs on a Hamlet