Martin D-18 1949 Natural
Reverb Estimated Used Price Range
- $2,725 — $5,525
Along with its Rosewood counterpart, the D-28, the 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