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
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
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Specifications
| Body Wood | Spruce (top), Mahogany (back and sides — non-scalloped bracing now standard) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony belly bridge |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 120 |
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.
How to Authenticate a 1944 C.F. Martin & Co. D-18
Martin serial numbers are the most reliable in the industry — verify the number stamped on the neck block (visible through the soundhole) against Martin's published tables. For 1944, the number should fall within the documented range. Mahogany back and sides with spruce top. Scalloped bracing should be visible through the soundhole (use mirror or inspection camera) — this is critical for pre-1944 models. Mahogany (not rosewood) back and sides — verify correct wood species. Simpler appointments than D-28 (no herringbone). Pre-war scalloped bracing makes these highly sought-after. Check for neck resets, top cracks (especially near soundhole and bridge), and bridge plate condition. Tuners should be Grover Sta-Tite. Finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer with age-appropriate wear. Original case adds value.