Martin D-18 Authentic 1939

$5,699.00 Price Tier: High-end

2 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 02, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated June 6, 2026.

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5.0 (2)

$5,699.00 3 available New

$4,500.00 7 available Used

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£4,799.00

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Average Price: $5,100

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

In the Steel-string Acoustic Guitars category, Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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High-end

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Description

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Here to remind you why you fell in love with us in the first place, the new Authentics are constructed the old way - with hide glue, throughout, and historically-accurate detailing confirmed by using a CAT scan machine located at the Smithsonian Institute. Based on a 1939 D-18 in our museum, this guitar features genuine mahogany back and sides, an Adirondack spruce top, using an authentic circa 1939 bracing pattern. Period-correct "18" Authentic-style appointments, with an Authentic neck barrel and heel, complete this piece. Martin’s new VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM® (VTS) is employed for the top and braces. The new Martin VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM® uses a unique recipe that is based on the historic torrefaction system. The VTS acts much like a time machine in which Martin can target certain time periods and age the top/braces to that era. This focused method allows Martin’s craftsmen and women to recreate not only the pleasing visual aesthetics of a vintage guitar, but also reproduce the special tones previously reserved for vintage instruments.

Product specs

Brand	Martin
Model	D-18 Authentic 1939
Finish	Natural
Year	2013 - 2025
Made In	United States
Categories	Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp	No
Back Material	Mahogany
Body Shape	Dreadnought
Color Family	Natural
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Ebony
Model Family	Martin D-18
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	20
Number of Strings	6-String
Pickup	None
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Series	Martin Authentic Series
Sides Material	Mahogany
String Type	Steel
Top Material	Spruce

FAQs

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939?: The Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 features a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, with a mahogany neck and an ebony fretboard, all contributing to its rich, warm tonal qualities.
Does the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 come with any electronics or pickups?: No, the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 is a purely acoustic guitar and does not include any built-in electronics or pickups.
What type of strings does the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 use?: The Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 is equipped with steel strings, which are standard for its dreadnought body shape and contribute to its powerful sound projection.
How does the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 compare to modern acoustic guitars in terms of sound?: The Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 is designed to replicate the vintage sound of pre-war Martin guitars, offering a warm, resonant tone with excellent projection, often preferred by traditionalists and those seeking a classic acoustic sound.
Is the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 suitable for fingerstyle playing?: Yes, the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939's responsive tone and comfortable neck profile make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, as well as strumming and flatpicking.

Videos

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The Music Emporium

Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 at The Music Emporium

The Music Emporium

Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 Aged - New Guitar, Old Sound!

Acoustic Letter

2014 Martin D-18 Authentic 1939, Mahogany & Adirondack Spruce

Dream Guitars

Martin D-18 Authentic 1939

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Martin D-18 1939 Authentic | Nick Brightwell presents

Studio 1 Vintage Guitars

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin D-18 Authentic 1939.

Comparisons

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Fredholm J-45 is considered by a user as a viable alternative, admired for its craftsmanship and appeal, despite the high standard set by the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939.
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Alternatives from builders like Eastman and Blueridge are mentioned as cost-effective, though concerns about material and labor practices in Asia are noted.
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The 1939 model offers more balanced tones with rear-shifted bracing, unlike the 1937's stronger bass presence and meaty neck.
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For those deciding between one Authentic and two Standards, it's noted that the Authentic delivers superior tone immediately, while two Standards offer greater variety and practicality.
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Value and pricing

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It's highlighted that modern Martins, including the D-18 Authentic 1939, are not typically seen as investment pieces like limited edition or vintage models.
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Many believe that while the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 may not appreciate significantly in value, the personal enjoyment and heritage justify the cost for long-term ownership.
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User experience

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Owners emphasize the unmatched heritage and resale value of Martin guitars, suggesting their longstanding reputation is a significant factor in purchasing decisions.
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Owners describe the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 as having a "bell-like" and "mellow" tone, which is expected to improve as the guitar ages.
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Other

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The discussion touches on the potential impact of political and ethical considerations on consumer decisions, particularly concerning guitars manufactured in Asia.
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Setup and maintenance

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The 1937's thick neck reduces warping risk, offering stability in varying weather conditions despite lacking a truss rod.
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Without an adjustable truss rod, neck relief on these guitars requires compression fretting, unlike models with adjustable rods.
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Features and functionality

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The 1937 model has a meaty neck and bass-heavy tone, while the 1939 delivers a balanced sound, suitable for players seeking tonal variation.
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Critic Reviews

Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 - Peghead Nation

pegheadnation.com

Celebrated for its vintage accuracy, the Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 shines with top-notch craftsmanship and a rich tonal palette. This mahogany dreadnought excels in dynamic flexibility, making it suitable for both delicate fingerstyle and robust strumming. Its chunky neck may be a turn-off for players who prefer slimmer profiles, but for those with larger hands, it offers a comfortable grip. With its vintage-inspired aesthetics and exceptional sound, it stands as a worthy contender in the acoustic guitar market, providing great value against boutique options. While it demands a bit more effort to play due to its setup, the rewards are evident in its sparkling notes and defined chords.

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Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 - review at One Man's Guitar

onemanz.com

The Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 captivates with its ultra-light construction and a voice that resonates with clarity and warmth. It beautifully replicates the revered pre-war tone, making it a coveted piece for both collectors and players alike. However, its narrow neck may not suit everyone, potentially alienating those who prefer a more traditional feel. While it captures the essence of vintage Martin craftsmanship, the hefty price tag of around $6,749 could deter casual buyers. Still, for serious musicians, this guitar offers an unparalleled blend of history and performance that is hard to resist.

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Jason Isbell

Singer, Guitarist

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

Verified via Photo

Featured in this February 5, 2015 Instagram post.

Don't know how to properly thank the folks @martinguitar for this new Authentic D-18 1939 birthday present. So spoiled, my granddad would call me "foundered."