That guitar looks just fine he is going to love it. No worries on the sound hole. As for the E you should be able to gently peel it off with heat like hairdryer and tweezers.
Also if you do indeed have a major flaw with this guitar register with epiphone for the warranty and get in touch with them they are awesome when it comes to customer service.
According to Epiphone Wiki the EJ200CE has a laminate top and the EJ200SCE is a solid Sitka spruce top so if it is a EJ200sce She is solid without a doubt.
I disagree Any Masterbuilt Dr500 MCE Is solid wood top as well as the EF500CCE, Dove Pro, IB1864 Texan, Dave Navarone Jane, and of course the EJ200CE, and the Pro 1 Ultra
Some have no problems the AJ500s seem prone to cracking, bridge-top lifting etc.....to get a good one pick one that has been around awhile so you know the thing has settled like the Texans as an acoustic electric much better.
Some have no problems the AJ500s seem prone to cracking, bridge-top lifting etc.....to get a good one pick one that has been around awhile so you know the thing has settled like the Texans as an acoustic electric much better.
I agree this SS Stewart archtop has a lot of history behind it. The previous owner about killed it but I'm going to save it cause it deserves it.
Price of guitar and parts 100 bucks price of accomplishing something I'm proud of PRICELESS!!!!