Epiphone is a musical instrument maker founded in 1873 by Anastasios Stathopoulos.

Epiphone is one of Gibson fiercest rivals producing a variety of high quality musical instruments favored by professional musicians.

The company was eventually bought up by Gibson in 1957. Initially Gibson was only interested in buying the Epiphone Upright Bass. A product missing in their current product line at the time. But ended up buying the whole company.

Today Epiphone is known for making affordable official Gibson designed guitar copies manufactured overseas. Like Squier by Fender. Although it wasn't their intention from the start. Unlike Squire who originally was a guitar string manufacturer that never built guitars.

For those who cant afford an USA made Gibson guitar. Electric guitars like the Gibson Les Paul are badged as an Epiphone Les Paul.

Recently Epiphone has reissued one of their original guitar design. The 1965 Epiphone Wilshire reissue built by Gibson USA. The Epiphone Wilshire reissue Made in China.