1933 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28

A very early herringbone D-28 — only the third year of production with just 41 made. Scalloped X-bracing, Adirondack spruce, and Brazilian rosewood define this seminal instrument.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$175,000$350,000
Very Good
$105,000$175,000
Good
$62,000$105,000
Fair
$31,000$62,000

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

Specifications

Body WoodSpruce (top), Brazilian Rosewood (back and sides — herringbone trim, scalloped bracing)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length25.400"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone (acoustic)
BridgeEbony belly bridge
TunersGrover Sta-Tite
Finish OptionsNatural (lacquer)
Est. Production41

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic flat-top — herringbone purfling, scalloped X-bracing, hide glue construction.

What Changed in 1933

Early herringbone D-28 — production increasing from inaugural year but still very limited. Adirondack spruce top, scalloped X-bracing, Brazilian rosewood of the highest quality. The D-28 was establishing itself as the professional's dreadnought.

Collector's Notes

Early 1930s D-28s are extraordinarily rare. Every example is tracked and documented. Authentication by multiple experts is essential at these price levels.