The Epiphone Century E422T model was introduced in 1958 following Gibson's purchase of the Epiphone company (although the Century model had been around since 1939). It was a thinline hollow bodied electric. As with other Epiphone electrics, the peghead style changed over the course of the 1960s: in 1961 the plate was removed from the headstock. The pickup was also changed in 1961 from the NY humbucker pickup to a P-90 and the pickguard color changed from tortoiseshell to white. A three-quarter sized Century was also available from 1961 to 1967.

Epiphone described the P-90 equipped Century model as follows in their 1960 catalog:

"Fine tone, full range response, and easy-playing action distinguish the Century, a thin-body Epiphone with adjustable pole piece pickup. The sensitive pickup provides plenty of volume and wide tonal colorings, easily regulated with separate tone and volume controls. Full auditorium size in non-cutaway style, made with laminated arched maple top and back with matching maple rims and ivoroid binding. Fast-action mahogany neck with adjustable truss rod. Rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays. Nickel-plated tailpiece and metal parts.
16.375” wide, 20.25” long, 1.875” thin 25.5” scale. 20 frets"