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AFTER 2003
In January of 2003 the serial number scheme changed from the system previously used by Gretsch Guitars. The first two digits identify the year of production and the second two digits identify the production month. The remaining numbers identify the sequential yearly factory unit number, and include all instruments, in all models, built in that factory, in that specific year.
For example, serial number JT03074463 would break down as:
- 03: 2003
- 07: July Production
- 4463: 4,463rd guitar built in 2003 (all models combined from that factory)
The last four numbers are sequential for the given year (all models combined) and are broken into two categories as follows:
- 0001 through 0100: Reserved for prototypes, samples, one-offs
So, your guitar was made in 2008, July production. This factory made over 3000 guitars by July. So it’s not very rare. This guitar is the 3434th guitar made by that factory that year.
However, keep in mind that this is ALL models, so this may be more special because it’s an anniversary issue, I don’t know. And I don’t know what the “KS” stands for. Since the example was made in Japan and has “JT” and yours was made in Korea and has KS, I’m gonna guess that this identifies the factory.
Beyond this, I’d go to a shop that specializes in used or vintage guitars if you have one in your area. Maybe send and email to a vintage shop.
That’s the best I can do. Let us know what you find out.
MG 😀