1970 C.F. Martin & Co. D-18
A 1970 D-18 — uniquely unaffected by the rosewood transition that changed the D-28 and D-35. The same mahogany construction throughout its history means consistent tone across all eras.
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 | 5,200 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1970
The D-18 was unaffected by the Brazilian-to-Indian rosewood transition since it uses mahogany back and sides. Production continued increasing. The singer-songwriter era kept demand high.
Collector's Notes
The D-18 is the one major Martin model where the 1969-1970 rosewood transition is irrelevant — mahogany back/sides throughout. Value differences across eras are based purely on age and scarcity.
How to Authenticate a 1970 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 1970, 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.