Perhaps the most loved acoustic guitar of all time, the Martin D-18 has rarely had an era where they weren’t some of the most recognizable and, frankly, good sounding acoustics out there. The early 1950’s were the start of a renaissance for guitars in general, mostly thanks to rock n’ roll, but also due to the consistent sight of Martin guitars all over film and television, from the Flatt and Scruggs Opry TV show, to the Andy Griffith show and more.

This example, from 1951, is a “Player Plus” grade, with the whole guitar still structurally intact, from the Red spruce top to mahogany back, sides and neck. The bridge has been reglued at some point, as well as the characteristic “Martin Pickguard Crack” having been repaired and finished over. The back center seam looks to have separated at some point but is nice and stable now.

1 11/16 nut as proper in 1951.

The back, sides and neck of this guitar have most likely been oversprayed sometime in the distant past, with a deep purplish hue to the back that’s quite beautiful, and wonderfully beat up. Tuners seem to have been replaced multiple times, but are currently a very nice set of vintage Grover Rotomatics. Action is great, plays nicely, but is priced to reflect an upcoming need for a neck reset.

Sound wise, this old gal is a hoss, with nice present mids and lows, and a a sparkly high end.

Comes with a period hard case.