Up for sale we have a 1968 Martin D12-20 12-String acoustic in Natural finish with original green plush lined hardshell case. Built in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, USA.
Originally introduced in 1964 as Martin’s very first production 12-string model, the D12-20 is essentially the 12-string interpretation of the D-18S but with a carefully reinforced structure to support the considerable additional tension of twelve steel strings. The D12-20‘s construction is classic late-60’s Martin: a solid Sitka Spruce top paired with Mahogany back and sides producing the stellar combination of warmth, projection and fundamental clarity for which Martin’s mahogany instruments are renowned. Tonally, the guitar has the enormous enveloping shimmer one might expect from a vintage Martin but with considerably more warmth and woodiness than the sometimes overly bright character associated with lesser 12-strings. The fundamental notes remain strong beneath the octave courses giving chords a rich three-dimensional quality while the Spruce top provides plenty of sparkle and articulation. This particular example is all-original and in great overall condition showing a moderate amount of cosmetic wear. The body has small dings, dents, scuffs and surface scratches scattered throughout with an area of buckle rash on the backside (see photos). The top shows some fine spider web lacquer checking as well. The neck is straight and in nice overall condition. It has quite a few small pinhead sized dings and dents along the backside but nothing large enough to be overly distracting or felt much, if at all, while playing. The original medium jumbo frets are present and in good shape showing just a bit of play wear across the first five frets, lots of life left. The instrument is structurally sound with no cracks, breaks or repairs. A fantastic sounding instrument and one to consider if you’re in the market for a great 12-string acoustic that won’t break the bank.

Specs:

- 24.7” scale length

- full dreadnought sized body, 5” thick with a 15 3/4” wide lower bout

- solid Sitka Spruce top with black multi-ply binding and black single-ply pickguard

- Mahogany back and sides, black single-ply binding around back

- Rosewood belly-down bridge

- Mahogany neck with a C-shape profile that mellows out into more of a Soft V as you make your way up towards the body. The neck measures .850” deep at the first fret, .980” deep at the seventh fret and 1.04” deep at the ninth fret

- width at the nut measures 1 13/16”

- Rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlaid position markers and 19 original medium jumbo frets

- slotted peghead with Martin & Co logo and 6X6 open gear strip tuners with white plastic buttons

- overall weight: 4 lbs. 8 oz.

The guitar will be properly packed in its original hardshell case with care prior to shipment. In-store trades only. Please reach out with any further questions. Thanks for your time!