Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (6)
$2,999.99 $2,749.99 $250.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
$6,999.00
Reverb
5.0 (8)
$15,995.00 13 available Used
Musician's Friend
$2,999.99 $2,749.99 $250.00 · All time low
zZounds
4.5 (1)
$2,999.99
Thomann
5.0 (1)
$3,599.00 $3,555.00 $44.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£2,999.00

Average Price: $5,400

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Martin D-18 1934-1945". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into a bygone era with the Vintage 1930s Martin D-18 acoustic guitar, a masterpiece that stands as a testament to Martin's enduring legacy. This iconic dreadnought, introduced in 1931, has been a cornerstone of the acoustic world, beloved for its historical significance and timeless sound. The D-18's mahogany back and sides, paired with an Adirondack spruce top, produce a warm, punchy tone perfect for bluegrass pickers and fingerstyle virtuosos alike. Its forward-shifted X-bracing enhances resonance, offering a dynamic range that captivates audiences whether you're playing solo or in an ensemble.

This vintage beauty is celebrated for its clarity and projection, qualities that have inspired legends and amateurs for generations. The D-18's design is a nod to Martin's golden era, with its 14-fret neck and dreadnought body ensuring both comfort and robust sound delivery. It's no surprise that this guitar has graced the hands of many legendary musicians, its sound immortalized on countless recordings. Owning a Martin D-18 is not just about possessing a musical instrument; it's about embracing a piece of history, a gateway to the rich tapestry of 20th-century music.

Key Features:

  • Solid Adirondack spruce top with forward-shifted X-bracing
  • Solid mahogany back and sides
  • Dreadnought body style for powerful projection
  • 14-fret, one-piece mahogany neck
  • Ebony fingerboard with traditional Style 18 inlays
  • Bone nut and saddle for enhanced tonal clarity
  • Nickel open-gear tuning machines
  • Handcrafted in the USA, embodying Martin's timeless craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model D-18
Finish Natural
Year 1934 - 1945
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 Pre-War Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Martin D-18 1934-1945?

The Martin D-18 1934-1945 features mahogany for both the back and sides, which contributes to its warm, balanced tone with clear mids.

What is the top material of the Martin D-18 1934-1945 and how does it affect the sound?

The top of the Martin D-18 1934-1945 is made from spruce, providing a bright, articulate sound with excellent projection, ideal for a variety of musical styles.

How many frets does the Martin D-18 1934-1945 have?

The Martin D-18 1934-1945 comes with 20 frets, offering a standard range for most acoustic playing styles.

Is the Martin D-18 1934-1945 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the Martin D-18 1934-1945 is well-suited for fingerstyle playing due to its responsive spruce top and balanced mahogany body, which provide clarity and warmth.

Does the Martin D-18 1934-1945 have any built-in electronics?

No, the Martin D-18 1934-1945 does not come with built-in electronics, maintaining its traditional acoustic design for pure, unamplified sound.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exudes warmth and vintage history in its sound

  • Features a beautifully balanced tone with resonant bottom end and clear high notes

  • Lightweight yet produces incredible sound

  • Offers extraordinary sound quality unmatched by modern techniques

  • Significant historical value, previously owned by notable musicians

  • Woody and articulate tonal characteristics

  • Exceptional response when playing dynamically

  • Unique aging process enhances sound quality

CONS

  • None listed

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Artist usage

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See how Mark Knopfler uses Martin D-18 1934-1945

Mark Knopfler

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via The Unofficial Martin Guitar Forum

Mark Knopfler with a vintage 1930s Martin D-18 acoustic guitar at his studio in London in 2015. PHOTO: JOBY SESSIONS/GETTY IMAGES

See how Post Malone uses Martin D-18 1934-1945

Post Malone

Singer, Guitarist

The Fools For You

...
Verified via Photo

One of Post’s iconic guitars is a pre-war D-18 with a blue Michael Myers cutout on the body.

See how JD Clayton uses Martin D-18 1934-1945

JD Clayton

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

The description of this YouTube video confirms that the guitar JD Clayton is playing is a 1938 Martin D-18.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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