1930s-'40s Martin D-18 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

 Martin D-18 stands as one of the true original dreadnoughts introduced by Martin in 1932. The D-18 made a switch from a 12-fret to a 14-fret instrument in 1934 and has stayed largely the same since, with just the occasional change in wood source or cosmetic detail. Since the D-18 uses Mahogany instead of Rosewood, it is thought to have a somewhat crisper sound with more definition the top-end.

Years of Production: 1932 - present

Specific to this Era:  By end of decade, Rosewood replaces Ebony for fingerboards on D-18. Also, Spruce used for top wood switches from Adirondack to Sitka around 1946. The size of the dot inlays also increases throughout the decade.

Body Style: Dreadnought

Wood Composition:  Mahogany back and sides, Sitka Spruce top, 1-piece mahogany neck
 


Notable Players:  Elvis Presley, Doc Watson, Clarence White, Andy Griffith, David Crosby