1947 Martin D-18 Acoustic Guitar – Used

This 1947 D-18 has that to-die-for post WWII Martin Dreadnought tone that gives flat pickers the shivers. Volume? Well of course, but it’s that elusive clarity, balance and mid-range “crunch” that sets this one apart. It still has its original tuners and original pickguard and there are no signs of any overspray or finish work. It’s had a recent, and excellent, refret. Both the Brazilian bridge and maple bridge plate are replacements, both have the right dimensions and footprint. There’s a 2-inch hairline to the top below the bass-side bridge tip, and a longer top crack below the center of the bridge belly that runs along the top seam and has been neatly cleated. We don’t know who did the work or when, but it was done over a dozen years ago. There are no other cracks or repairs. Don’t fail to note the nice figure in the mahogany neck! The sturdy hardshell case is about the same vintage as the guitar but is for a Gibson shape, the lower bout is rounder and slightly oversized but it’s a cool and very solid period case.