Epiphone Les Paul Standard - FAKE or European made?

This Les Paul was purchased second hand from an individual at the end of November 2008. It has been suggested that this is an European model as the serial number starts with "B" and that the previous owner bought this in Italy at Bandiera Franco, one of the largest musical shop in Rome. I ran a quick check at the Gibson website and found that this shop is one of their dealers in Italy.

However, there are signs which also suggest that this may be a fake. I took the guitar myself to a Gibson dealer who thinks it is a fake but would not confirm it as there are various versions of Epi LPs made by the many factories over the years. They pointed out some features which are not common for an Epiphone LP and said that if it is fake, it's the best they've seen.

I've posted the pictures below and would appreciate comments from anyone - fake or real?

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The "Epiphone" word should be slanted a bit more?
The top screw on the trust rod cover is not exactly center.

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The serial number print appears to be a bit dodgy.

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The black paint a bit messy at the side of the headstock.

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The pickguard has 2 screws to the body rather than 1.

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Nothing printed on the underside of the pick-up

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Normally would see "Epiphone" printed underneath.

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Pick-up selector

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Doesn't look like a typical Epi LP input.