Any idea what a 1947 D-18 is worth these days. There are no cracks (or repaired cracks) in the top, back or sides. All original finish, with the classic old Martin look and player ware. It has had a neck reset and bridge re-glue at some point, and it could probably use a neck re-set, it is playable, but the action could be improved with a quality neck re-set. Original tuners, comes with new style Collings case.

This guitar sounds amazing, it is one of the best sounding D-18's I've ever heard. I'm helping a friend sell this guitar, any advise on finding the true value, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Ron

(San Diego, CA)

1947 is a vintage year: my birth year, and my wife's, nine months later. God knew once I got here I'd be needing her someday. Every day. I'd call Jim Baggett at Mass Street (800-747-9980); he's a nationally known authority on old Martins, including me. I'd guess north of 8K, maybe 10k. thanks tom

There is a refinished 1946 D18 at Gruhn's going for $3500. Hope that helps.
George

PM sent

cotten music has a '45 D-18, VG+, for $14,500.

With a vintage guitar, generally there will be a significant difference between the value of one with the original finish v. a re-finished version. I'm guessing the one at Cotton is the original finish, as is the one being inquired about here.

In addition to calling Jim Baggett at Mass Street, you might try calling Eric Schoenberg at his shop in Tiburon, CA. Eric knows a bit about vintage Martins

He doth indeed. Original v refinish is a biggie to collectors, and, depending on the quality and recency of the refinish job (and by whom), I don't get it. It may need some finish work when the neck reset is done, anyway. Of course, some folk clamor for "relic" guitars, sort of a "adopt a beater" program for the well heeled. Whatever.

quote:

cotten music has a '45 D-18, VG+, for $14,500.

Apples and oranges, considering a '45 D18 has red spruce and a '47 is topped with sitka.

Fred Oster (Vintage Instruments in Philly) has a '47 D18 with a few repaired cracks and original case for $7800.

If I were you, I'd have your guitar appraised by an expert to get a better idea about this particular guitar.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: guitarpath,

quote:

Originally posted by guitarpath:
Apples and oranges, considering a '45 D18 has red spruce and a '47 is topped with sitka.

yep. that'd change things a bit.