1954 Martin D-18 #138438 — Vintage Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
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This 1954 Martin D-18 is a beautifully preserved vintage dreadnought with strong provenance, rich tonal character, and the unmistakable feel of a well-played classic.
Originally purchased from its first owner in 1996, this guitar is now being offered again—making the next owner just the third caretaker of this instrument. It retains a high level of originality, including the original bridge, bridge plate, tuners, pickguard, and case.
The guitar exhibits a natural, authentic patina developed over decades of playing. The back of the neck shows significant finish wear, resulting in a smooth, comfortable feel that many players prefer.
Condition & HistoryPrior professional work completed in 1996 includes:
- Neck reset
- Full refret (original frets included)
- Bone nut installation
- Professional plugging of previous pickup holes
- Minor touch-up to back wear
The plugged areas include locations near the bridge, on the lower bout, and on the side. All work was expertly executed and is structurally sound.
The finish remains original throughout the guitar, aside from localized touch-up on the back. There is a single hairline pickguard crack, with no other cracks present.
This guitar is very playable in its current condition (see video), though additional setup work may be desired for optimal performance higher up the neck.
Tone & PerformanceThis 1954 D-18 delivers the dry, woody, and highly responsive tone that has made vintage mahogany Martins legendary.
- Strong, fundamental-focused voice with excellent clarity
- Warm, punchy midrange ideal for rhythm and lead work
- Quick response with a light, lively feel
- Classic vintage dreadnought projection
The result is a guitar that captures the essence of mid-century Martin tone—direct, expressive, and highly musical.
Why This Guitar Stands Out- Authentic 1954 Martin D-18
- Only three owners since new
- Original bridge, bridge plate, tuners, pickguard, and case
- Professionally serviced and structurally sound
- Beautiful natural patina with smooth, worn-in neck feel
- Classic vintage mahogany dreadnought tone
- From the Ed Simpkins collection
Be sure to explore other vintage instruments from the Ed Simpkins collection, including a 1937 Martin 0-17H, 1948 Martin 000-28, and 1951 Gibson J-45.
Serial Number: 138438
Professionally inspected and ready to ship.
Features & Specifications- Construction: Dovetail Neck Joint
- Top: Sitka Spruce
- Bracing: Rear-Shifted X
- Back & Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany – Subtle V Profile
- Fingerboard & Bridge: Brazilian Rosewood
- Nut Width: 1 5/8"
- Scale Length: 25.4"
- Frets Clear: 14
- Bridge Style: Belly – Long Saddle
- Bridge Spacing: 2 1/4"
- Top Inlay: Style 18
- Fingerboard Inlays: Style 18
- Binding: Tortoise
- Pickguard: Tortoise
- Case: Original Hardshell Case
Serving Musicians Since 1991
| Listed | a year ago |
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| Condition | Very Good (Used) Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more |
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