Hi Big Kahune - it is a real 1978. (I have checked the dating from the serial number - 18th July 1978 in Nashville (Serial no. 71998543). It was in it's case from new to about 1999/2000, when it was sold to a music shop in London. I saw it, played it and bought it in about 10 minutes flat. Cost £1,000 back then, (about $1,500). I play it at home and in the studio with my band. It will probably not be gigging though,,,
Up really, really close you can see the age:
The finish is slightly more matte and has not quite got the gloss shine of a brand new black Gibson.
The bracket holding the pickguard is pitted and corroded.
The pickguard screw is rusty.
Some (tiny) pitting and blistering of the chrome plating on the bridge and on one of the tailpiece studs.
The finish has sunk slightly on the rear of the headstock, which means the laminate neck construction is clearly visible.
A few minor dings and scratches (but no belt buckle rash at all).
A few very small cracks in the finish where the binding meets the body on the inside curve of the cutaway.
But from more than 2 feet away, it looks like it could be new.
I love it!