I have just put a deposit down on a Custom Shop 335. Faded Cherry.
And now I'm jittery. Here's why -

I'm buying from a very respected dealer. I'm told it is a '63 reissue. It is used, which would explain the ripping price - 3 grand US. It is in lovely condition - plays great, sounds great.

But the serial number worries me. In every serial number directory I can find, it says that Custom Shop reissue serial numbers have letters in them to distinguish between models. I always thought most custom shop guitars had a 'CS' stamped on the headstock. But this guitar has a 'normal' looking Gibson serial number - 03419XXX. At least I know it is an '09.

More puzzling is the model number inside the f-hole. It reads - ESDY335.
Huh? What does 'DY' mean?

I don't want to be worried about this one. It feels right, but . .
They assure me it is a '63 reissue. A guy returned it recently. It still has the protective coating on the scratchplate. The truss rod cover was missing, but I'm assured it will be there when I come to pick it up.

Can anyone help?
Cheers,
Rohan