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Serial #591858 Information:

• Production year: 1996
• Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

The Back Story:

This estate sale guitar was a prized possession of a local guitar hobbyist who preferred building his player instruments. This D-42 may have been his only Martin factory made guitar. For the vast majority of it's life, she was either stored in the case and only opened for an occasional viewing and maintenance or in a display cabinet at the owner’s office. She was rarely played as the instrument was considered a show piece.

The guitar was purchased on 12/20/97 from Podium Music in Minneapolis, MN. There was a short period where the owner sold it to a friend who rarely (if at all) played it. After a couple of years, he bought it back, never to part from this D-42 again.

Between 2019 and 2024, the owner placed the guitar in its case and was unable to maintain hydration. As a result, a very minor belly crack appeared which was only detectable by touch. I took her to The Lutherie Shop in Des Moines for a complete inspection and repair. Scott found that the bridge was also starting to lift and the repair was added to the was added to the work order. (Repair receipt included.)

Other than the minor pick guard scratching (which were buffed out), he said, “This guitar shows as new.”

My Ownership Notes:

This is a stunning guitar. I cannot find any faults. It has been an honor to be the caretaker of this fine Martin instrument for the past 2.5 years.

To maintain the incredible condition, I have played this guitar only 5 times. The sound is superb.

This D-42 is paired with the original Martin issue hard case. The original owner cut the top holding webbing as he preferred to have the case fully exposed when open. The key is still there.

Also included is the original purchase receipt, warranty registration, original owners card and letter of "thank you for your purchase" from the Martin Guitar Company.

General Overview:

The 1996 Martin D-42 Standard Series marks the official launch year of this iconic dreadnought in Martin's modern catalog. Originally built with premium tone woods and exquisite vintage-style appointments, it remains highly sought-after by players seeking rich bass response and premium craftsmanship.

Core Specifications

• Body Style: 14-Fret Dreadnought
• Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce with an aging/vintage toner
• Back & Sides: Solid East Indian Rosewood
• Bracing: Scalloped, forward-shifted X-bracing
• Scale Length: 25.4"
• Nut Width: 1 11/16" standard for this era
• Origin: Made in the USA

Appointments & Hardware

• Inlays: Style 45 snowflake inlays on the ebony fretboard
• Purfling & Rosette: Hand-cut abalone pearl trim lining the top and fingerboard extension
• Tuning Machines: Gold open-gear vintage style with butterbean knobs
• Bridge: Ebony with drop-in saddle (modified to accommodate onboard electronics from the late 90s onward)

Tone & Ownership Insights

• Acoustic Profile: Reviewers note the instrument provides a big, resonant bass and balanced midrange due to the forward-shifted bracing.
• Market Consensus: There is a consensus among members on the Martin D-42 Facebook Group that the 40-series represents a baseline of cosmetic excellence and premium tone compared to lower-tier series.

“The D-42's dreadnought body shape ensures impressive volume and projection, allowing the depth of its tone to take center stage. The delicate balance of rich tone and volume makes this guitar a versatile choice, able to adapt to a broad spectrum of musical styles. Its elegance lies in the details. The D-42 boasts of mother of pearl dot inlays, a tortoise pickguard, and an aged toner finish, enhancing its timeless aesthetics. The guitar's scalloped "X" bracing amplifies its resonance, delivering an open, vibrant sound that appeals to musicians of all genres.” - Equipboard.com