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Average Price: $3,799

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$200

$601+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1930 Martin 0-17, a steel-string acoustic guitar that embodies the craftsmanship and tonal quality of early 20th-century guitar making. This vintage model, renowned for its small-bodied design, delivers a rich, warm sound that defies its compact size. Originally crafted in the pre-war era, this guitar is a testament to Martin's enduring legacy in acoustic excellence. Its mahogany body and neck provide a resonant, earthy tone, perfect for fingerstyle playing or accompanying vocals. The wide V-shaped neck offers a comfortable grip, making it a favorite among vintage guitar enthusiasts and collectors alike.

With its ladder-braced construction, the 1930 Martin 0-17 offers a distinctive tonal character, setting it apart from modern counterparts. This guitar has been cherished for its ability to produce clear and articulate sound across its range, making it ideal for players who seek an authentic, historical playing experience. While it may show signs of its age, these details only add to its charm and storied past, making each instrument unique.

Whether you're a seasoned musician or a collector of vintage instruments, the 1930 Martin 0-17 is a prized addition to any collection, offering a genuine piece of musical history with every strum.

Key Features:

  • Small-bodied design for portability and comfort
  • Mahogany body and neck for warm, resonant tones
  • Ladder-braced construction for distinctive sound
  • Wide V-shaped neck for a traditional playing feel
  • Vintage appeal with authentic pre-war craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model 0-17
Finish Natural
Year 1906 - 1945
Made In United States
Categories Parlor Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape 0
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Martin 0-17
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin 16 / 17 Series, Martin Pre-War Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the 1930 Martin 0-17 guitar?

The 1930 Martin 0-17 guitar features a mahogany back, sides, and neck, with a spruce top. This combination provides a warm, resonant tone typical of vintage Martin guitars.

Is the 1930 Martin 0-17 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the 1930 Martin 0-17 is well-suited for fingerstyle playing due to its parlor body shape and responsive tonewood combination, which offers clear articulation and a balanced sound.

Does the 1930 Martin 0-17 have a pickup system installed?

No, the 1930 Martin 0-17 does not come with a pickup system installed. It is a purely acoustic guitar designed for natural sound projection.

How many frets does the 1930 Martin 0-17 have?

The 1930 Martin 0-17 has 20 frets, which allows for a wide range of notes suitable for various playing styles.

What is the body shape of the 1930 Martin 0-17?

The 1930 Martin 0-17 features a parlor body shape, which is smaller and more compact, making it comfortable to play and ideal for intimate settings.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin 1930 Martin 0-17.

Build quality

  • Original 0-17 models typically featured white plastic tuner buttons due to WWII restrictions, suggesting metal buttons may be replacements.

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  • Period-correct 0-17 guitars generally had a gloss finish, unlike the satin finish seen on some models, indicating potential refinishing.

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  • Original saddles on 0-17 guitars from the 1940s may differ from the current saddle, which appears non-original.

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  • The 1936 0-17 is noted for its extremely light build, contributing to its surprising volume output.

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Comparisons

  • Older mahogany Martins, like the 0-17, are noted for smoother aesthetics compared to newer models like the 00015.

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Value and pricing

  • A pristine 1946 0-17 is valued around $4500, although its unusually clean appearance raises authenticity questions.

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  • Similar guitars from 1933 are listed between $6k-$7k, suggesting a well-maintained 0-17 could quickly sell for around $5k.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It’s crucial to use a room humidifier instead of just a case humidifier in dry regions to prevent cracks in older Martins like the 0-17.

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  • For minimal crack repairs, hide glue is recommended, with aged spruce cleats if needed, maintaining the guitar's vintage integrity.

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  • Luthiers emphasize the importance of a thorough check-up for vintage Martins, with repairs enhancing both playability and value retention.

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  • Owners highlight the importance of monitoring minor hairline cracks, especially on the back, to preserve structural integrity.

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User experience

  • Owners note bar frets on early 0-17 models can be uncomfortable, being too high and narrow, affecting playability for some.

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  • Users report that the guitar, despite its age, is set up better than many modern guitars, providing excellent playability.

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Use cases and applications

  • Despite its vintage status, the 0-17 excels in everyday playability, noted to "play like butter and sing like a bird" even if visually imperfect.

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  • This guitar's dry, woody tone and strong fundamental make it particularly suited for fingerstyle country blues.

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Features and functionality

  • The midrange of the 0-17 is described as cutting through while maintaining a balanced sound profile.

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Artist usage

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See how Tommy Emmanuel uses Martin 1930 Martin 0-17

Tommy Emmanuel

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

From Tommy Emmanuel's YouTube Admin taken from the description of the source video...

"Tommy's guitar is an 017 Martin from 1930, given to him by the late Chet Atkins."

Genre Usage

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