This extraordinary Martin was made between 1839 and 1867. A 1990 letter ( included with the guitar) from Mike Longworth identifies it as a 2 1/2-18, which according to further research appears to be correct, and " probably made from 1850 to 1867". The guitar shows virtually zero playwear. There are a few teeny tiny scratches and pinhead marks, but the original frets and finish show no wear. Herringbone strip around the soundhole. Unbound back. It does not have a case, but will be triple boxed for shipping. An exceptional example of the influence of Spanish guitars from Cadiz on Martin's progression from the Austrian style to that of the X braced American guitars that evolved between 1833 and the 1860's. This particular instrument has fan bracing with 3 fan braces and a lateral brace under the lower bout. The Brazilian Rosewood back and sides are of extraordinary quality. A gorgeous and extraordinary historical piece. The cleanest pre 1900 Martin I have ever seen. NO cracks, no repairs; I have not even wiped the guitar off! As clean inside as outside!The bridge pins are Not original. Because of the international CITES agreement rules , we will only ship this guitar to an address in the United States, unless it is paid by bank wire directly to our account. In any case, we will accept no responsibility whatsoever for confiscation by any international government agency. Martin , Ny stamped on the interior backstripe and the heel block. No serial number , as is normal for Martin's pre 1898.
