1948 Martin 00-17Woody Guthrie Model • Crack-Free • Original Finish • Exceptional Post-War Example

Offered for sale is an exceptional 1948 Martin 00-17, one of the most beloved small-body guitars ever produced by C.F. Martin & Co. Built during Martin's highly regarded post-war period, this all-mahogany 00-17 captures everything that has made the model a favorite of folk musicians, blues players, songwriters, and recording artists for generations.

Most famously, the 00-17 is the model closely associated with Woody Guthrie, whose well-worn mahogany Martin became one of the defining visual and musical symbols of American folk music.

This example remains remarkably original, retaining its original finish, original bridge, excellent neck geometry, and crack-free construction. Finding a 1940s Martin with this combination of originality and structural integrity has become increasingly difficult.

Tonewoods & Construction

Top: Solid Mahogany

Back & Sides: Solid Mahogany

Neck: Mahogany

Fingerboard: Brazilian Rosewood

Bridge: Brazilian Rosewood

Lightweight and highly responsive, the 00-17 produces the dry, woody voice that made the model famous. Notes emerge with clarity and focus, while the all-mahogany construction delivers warmth and an intimate character that larger rosewood Martins simply cannot replicate.

Tone

The classic American folk guitar voice:

• Dry and woody

• Warm and focused

• Fast attack

• Outstanding note separation

• Strong fundamental response

Condition

Structural Condition

• Completely crack-free

• No repaired cracks

• Excellent neck angle

• Strong saddle height

• Structurally sound throughout

Cosmetic Condition

• Light, honest wear consistent with age

• Beautiful natural patina

• Clean overall presentation

For a 1948 all-mahogany Martin, this is an unusually well-preserved instrument.

Why This Guitar Matters

The appeal of the 00-17 has never been ornamentation. Its value comes from simplicity, responsiveness, and musical honesty.

A clean, original, crack-free 1948 00-17 is becoming increasingly difficult to find, especially with correct neck geometry and original finish intact.

Specifications

Year: 1948

Model: Martin 00-17

Body Size: 00

Top: Solid Mahogany

Back & Sides: Solid Mahogany

Neck: Mahogany

Fingerboard: Brazilian Rosewood

Bridge: Brazilian Rosewood

Finish: Original

Scale Length: 24.9"

Made In: Nazareth, Pennsylvania, USA

Final Thoughts

The 00-17 is one of Martin's most important guitars: light, responsive, endlessly musical, and deeply connected to the history of American folk music. This 1948 example checks the boxes serious buyers care about most: post-war production, originality, crack-free condition, excellent geometry, and the unmistakable voice that made the "Little Brown Guitar" a legend.

Shipping is a Flat Rate of $200 dollars but includes Reverb Safe Shipping!