1934 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28
An early herringbone D-28 from Martin's pre-war golden era. Scalloped X-bracing, Brazilian rosewood, and the herringbone trim define this period. Among the finest acoustic flat-tops ever constructed.
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), Brazilian Rosewood (back and sides — herringbone trim, scalloped bracing) |
| 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 (lacquer) |
| Est. Production | 89 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic flat-top — no pickup. The herringbone top purfling is the definitive pre-war D-28 visual identifier.
What Changed in 1934
Early herringbone D-28 — the most collectible pre-war Martin dreadnought. Scalloped X-bracing, Brazilian rosewood, herringbone trim, ebony fingerboard. Only 89 made. These define the ideal acoustic guitar tone.
Collector's Notes
The herringbone purfling around the top is the instant identifier of pre-war D-28s (1931-1946). Scalloped bracing is essential — verify with a mirror inside the body. Brazilian rosewood should show deep, rich figuring.
How to Authenticate a 1934 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28
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 1934, the number should fall within the documented range. The back and sides should be Brazilian rosewood — this is the single most important factor in valuation. Brazilian rosewood has distinctive grain variation (chocolate to violet-brown) and a sweet smell. Indian rosewood (post-1969) is more uniform and darker. Scalloped bracing should be visible through the soundhole (use mirror or inspection camera) — this is critical for pre-1944 models. Herringbone purfling is a defining feature of pre-1947 D-28s — verify it's original. Check bridge for original belly-style construction. Martin stamps the model number inside — verify with a mirror. 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.