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Martin Acoustic Guitars - 1953 D-28
$18,500.00
In Stock
This Martin D-28 from 1953, otherwise known as a "Mystery Top" D-28, is everything you could ask for out of a mid-century dreadnought, with the added headroom and punch that comes from the Adirondack top.
Thanks to the research into the Martin archives by historian and author Greig Hutton, we know a lot more about the origins of the wood used on these mystery top models. Here with what Martin referred to as an "East Spruce top", their internal lingo for Adirondack spruce, the wood was probably purchased from the Eaton Lumber Co of Rochester Vermont around 1950, seasoned over the next few years, before it made its way into the guitars of 1953. Paired with Brazilian Rosewood, this D-28 sports a tone wood combination that hadn't been seen since the mid 40s, and wouldn't again from Martin for decades.
The guitar has been well cared for over the past 70-plus years. There is a repaired pickguard crack, which is not uncommon on guitars of this era, as the pickguards shrink and pulls the spruce with it. There is a nicely repaired top crack on the lower bout, treble side, that has been repaired with two small cleats. The finish of the guitar is original, with only some minor touch up on the heel after a repair from a previously installed strap button. There is evidence of a finish protector on the back of the guitar possibly used to avoid buckle rash, which accounts for the darker rectangle halo that can be seen on the back (see photos). The tuners have been replaced with the appropriate-style waffle back tuners, and a small ball-end maple bridge plate doubler has been installed. Includes a hardshell case.
The buyer is responsible for any shipping costs. Payment via Wire Transfer preferred
