1958 C.F. Martin & Co. D-18
A late 1950s D-18 on the cusp of the folk revival — the accessible Martin dreadnought that aspiring folk musicians could afford. Consistent construction and the cutting mahogany tone.
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) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Rosewood belly bridge |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 2,500 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1958
Late 1950s D-18 — the folk revival was beginning to drive demand for acoustic guitars. The D-18 was the accessible Martin for aspiring folk musicians. Rosewood fingerboard standard.
Collector's Notes
Late 1950s D-18s are plentiful and well-made. The folk revival association adds modest cultural value. Excellent player instruments at reasonable vintage prices.
How to Authenticate a 1958 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 1958, the number should fall within the documented range. Mahogany back and sides with spruce top. Non-scalloped X-bracing pattern for this era — verify through the soundhole. Mahogany (not rosewood) back and sides — verify correct wood species. Simpler appointments than D-28 (no herringbone). 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.