Question about an old EPI 5102TE.

[Artie]

I've got an old, and very rough, Epiphone 5102TE. The info on the 'net is all over the place. Most say that it's a MIJ model, possibly made by Aria. Around 1970. The thing is, they all are identified by a "Made in Japan" sticker inside, and/or on the neck plate. Like this:



Mine doesn't have that. The "Made in Japan" is missing and it clearly says "Union Made" on the opposite corner. Would they put "union made" on an import? Is there any chance this might be a genuine USA model, made in Kalamazoo, before they exported the manufacturing. Probably wishful thinking, but what the heck.







P.S. Someone put DiMarzio's in this thing.

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Question about an old EPI 5102TE.

So, in short, your Epi has all the features of an MIJ instrument except for the paper label inside the F hole.

The likeliest probability is that the guitar is MIJ but that the label is an early version - rather like Leo Fender using cut down "Broadcaster" decals before starting the first batch that read "Telecaster".

 

[Artie]

Re: Question about an old EPI 5102TE.

Thanks FF. That's what I figured. Anyway, this thing is in bad shape. Probably not worth restoring. Besides, my step-daughter wants to just hang it on a wall as a keepsake to remember a departed great-uncle. So that will probably be its fate.

 

[Funkfingers]

Re: Question about an old EPI 5102TE.

Nice idea.

The sentimental connection probably has more value than the refurbished guitar ever would as a playable instrument.