Up for sale is a 1987 Martin J-40M in very good vintage condition. This is a big, rich-sounding jumbo from Martin’s J-series—tons of headroom, deep low end, and that classic shimmer on top.

Tone & Feel:
Full, piano-like low end with clear, ringing highs. Great for strumming, worship, and anything that benefits from a big, open acoustic voice. It’s opened up nicely over the years like you’d expect from a late-’80s Martin.

Weighs 4.70 lbs

Upgrades:

  • Professionally installed LR Baggs HiFi → very natural plugged-in tone
  • Upgraded Gotoh tuners (original tuners included in case)
  • Replaced black Pickguard with firestripe HOLTER pickguard.

Condition / Notes (please read):

  • No cracks or structural issues ( but see binding note below)
  • Frets have plenty of life left
  • Currently set up with comfortable, low action and plays great
  • Binding: This guitar had the common vintage Martin binding separation at some point. A previous owner appears to have repaired it with super glue. Not the ideal method, but it is stable and not very noticeable unless you’re looking for it. I’ve included detailed photos for transparency.
  • Neck angle: Guitar plays well as-is, but like many vintage Martins, it will likely need a neck reset at some point down the road (estimate within ~5 years depending on preference and climate).

Specs (highlights):

  • Jumbo body (J-40M)
  • Solid tonewoods (classic Martin build)
  • Ebony fingerboard & bridge
  • Iconic abalone-style trim from the 40 series

Includes:

  • Original Martin hard shell case
  • Original tuners (included in case)

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

Listed2 months ago
ConditionVery Good (Used)
Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • J-40 (J-40M)
Finish
  • Natural
Categories
Year
  • 1985 - 1992
Made In
  • United States
Pickup
  • None
String Type
  • Steel
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Number of Strings
  • 6-String
Neck Material
  • Mahogany
Model Family
Back Material
  • Rosewood
Sides Material
  • Rosewood
Finish Style
  • Gloss
Top Material
  • Spruce
Body Shape
  • Jumbo
Fretboard Material
  • Ebony
Color Family
  • Natural
Active Preamp
  • No
Number of Frets
  • 20

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The Guitar Cafe

Corpus Christi, TX, United States
Joined Reverb:2014

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