1962 C.F. Martin & Co. D-18
A 1962 D-18 — the folk revival at its peak. The affordable Martin dreadnought was in the hands of aspiring and professional folk musicians across the country. Excellent tone at accessible prices.
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 | 3,100 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1962
Peak folk revival D-18 — the accessible Martin dreadnought at the height of the folk music explosion. Peter, Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan, and countless others were making acoustic guitar the center of popular culture.
Collector's Notes
Peak folk revival D-18s are plentiful and well-made. Excellent player instruments with cultural significance. Many show heavy use from professional touring — condition varies widely.
How to Authenticate a 1962 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 1962, 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.