1944 C.F. Martin & Co. D-18

A wartime D-18 — transitional construction with non-scalloped bracing. Low production due to WWII restrictions. The mahogany dreadnought was being built in reduced numbers but maintained its essential character.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$15,000$30,000
Very Good
$9,500$15,000
Good
$5,800$9,500
Fair
$2,900$5,800

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

Specifications

Body WoodSpruce (top), Mahogany (back and sides — non-scalloped bracing now standard)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length25.400"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone (acoustic)
BridgeEbony belly bridge
TunersGrover Sta-Tite
Finish OptionsNatural
Est. Production120

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic flat-top.

What Changed in 1944

Wartime D-18 — non-scalloped bracing is now the standard. Low production due to wartime material restrictions. Herringbone trim may still be present. These are transitional instruments bridging the pre-war and post-war eras.

Collector's Notes

Wartime D-18s are scarce and interesting. Non-scalloped bracing is the norm by 1944. Check for any wartime material substitutions. Still excellent instruments with genuine historical interest.