You’ll need the cash of a rock star to pluck this acoustic guitar from its hard-shelled case. Bidding on the 1930 Martin OM-45 Deluxe will start at $875,000 but it’s expected to reach between $1.75 million and $2 million Thursday.

What is a prewar Martin?

Any date before then is considered “pre-war,” in the context of Martin guitars. After that point, designs may have changed, and the herringbone purfling that CF Martin used to use on its D-28s, for example, that was imported from Germany became unavailable for a number of years.

Does Martin still make the D 18?

Martin D-18V (Discontinued) Solid Sitka spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides. Its mahogany neck has a modified V profile. It has an ebony fretboard and bridge, rosewood headplate, and scalloped bracing. It has a belly-drop style bridge, vintage butterbean tuners, and old-style rosette.

What’s the difference between a D 18 and a D 28?

The main differences between Martin D18 vs D28 are: Martin D18 is made from Sitka spruce, whereas the D28 is made from East Indian Rosewood. Martin D18 is slightly lighter in color, whereas the D28 is a darker color. Martin D18 has a crisp tone, whereas the D28 has a deeper tone.

Why are pre war Martins so expensive?

So since WWII, the supply has been both rare and tightly controlled; as a result it’s extremely expensive. In the late 1960’s, Martin switched to using Indian Rosewood instead, which is very nice, but not as nice as the Brazilian variety.

Is a Martin D-18 worth the money?

In view of its superb build quality, rich tone, and versatility, Martin D-18 is worth every cent you are going to pay for it.

What years are pre-war Martins?

There were changes made in the Martin dreadnaught guitars throughout the years between 1934 and 1946. In addition to bracing changes from forward to back bracing, the years until 1944 were scalloped braced guitars. The guitars in 1945 and 46 were not scalloped, or at least most of them were not.

Why are pre-war Martins so good?

Pre-war Martins were built using Brazilian Rosewood for their back and sides, which is highly prized both for its look and its sound.