1968 Guild D-40

Westerly-era D-40 running alongside the newly introduced D-55. The D-40's mahogany warmth complements the D-55's rosewood richness — two voices from the same factory.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$3,200$6,500
Very Good
$2,000$3,200
Good
$1,300$2,000
Fair
$650$1,300

* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology

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Specifications

Body WoodSpruce top, Mahogany back and sides
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardRosewood
Scale Length25.625"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone
BridgeRosewood belly bridge with bone saddle
TunersGrover Rotomatic
Finish OptionsNatural Spruce Top, Sunburst
Est. Production350

Pickups & Electronics

Acoustic — no pickups.

What Changed in 1968

The Westerly factory is now running at full capacity. D-40 production is increasing alongside the introduction of the rosewood D-55. The D-40 remains the more affordable option with its mahogany body.

Collector's Notes

Good Westerly-era production. D-40 vs D-55 is a matter of tonal preference, not quality. Mahogany favors midrange warmth; rosewood favors bass depth and treble sparkle.

How to Authenticate a 1968 Guild D-40

Guild maintained excellent serial number records — verify the number on the neck block or interior label against Guild tables for 1968. Early Westerly, RI production. Mahogany back and sides with spruce top. Mahogany-body dreadnought (Guild's equivalent to Martin D-18). Simpler appointments than D-55. Distinctive Guild arched-back construction. Check Guild headstock logo and chesterfield inlay — style changed over decades. Verify bridge is original, check for top cracks, neck angle, and structural integrity. Tuners should be Grover Rotomatic. Finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer with natural wear. Original case adds value.