Troy Kebab

According to this Les Paul forum member, on the model number question, the HB stands for 'Hand Built', and the 'M' for Memphis... seems logical... but I dunno... https://www.lespaulforum.com/forum/showthread.php?200994-My-es-335-HB081m-Serial-A1000002-rare

Yes, there are quite a few '61 335 reissues out there at the moment... it's the model numbering that I'm not sure about / would like clarification on. I received a reply from a Gibson 'Consumer Relations Representative' who informed me (rather cryptically) that "Concerning production totals: we do not have production totals available, as these are seen as Gibson property."... what on earth does that mean?

Thanks for your interest Wmachine. The model number is on the Custom 'certificate of authenticity', and on the warranty checklist dated 10:1:12. It was sold to me as a '61 reissue from a reputable dealer, and due to the appointments – knobs, truss rod cover, pickguard bevel, dot neck etc, I don't have any particular reason to doubt it. I believe a '59 reissue would have the longer pickguard. Have contacted Gibson but have yet to receive a reply...

So, I have an ES 335 1961 reissue VOS in cherry... and on the custom certificate it states the model number as HB096M. The serial number (on the certificate) is A056** and this aligns with the orange label inside the guitar (there is no serial number on the headstock). I have searched the interweb for information on this particular model number, and there doesn't appear to be much (if any) available. Just curious to know how many were made, and in which years... if it's particularly rare etc... So, I thought I'd put it out there on the Gibson forum ... any info would be much appreciated!

So, I have an ES 335 1961 reissue VOS in cherry... and on the custom certificate it states the model number as HB096M. The serial number (on the certificate) is A056** and this aligns with the orange label inside the guitar (there is no serial number on the headstock). I have searched the interweb for information on this particular model number, and there doesn't appear to be much (if any) available. Just curious to know how many were made, and in which years... if it's particularly rare etc... So, I thought I'd put it out there on the Gibson forum ... any info would be much appreciated!