1938 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28

A 1938 herringbone D-28 — deep in the golden era. These are the definitive acoustic flat-tops. Scalloped bracing, Adirondack spruce, Brazilian rosewood, and herringbone trim at their peak.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$125,000$250,000
Very Good
$78,000$125,000
Good
$46,000$78,000
Fair
$23,000$46,000

* 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
Est. Production188

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic.

What Changed in 1938

Late 1930s herringbone D-28 in the heart of the golden era. Adirondack spruce, scalloped X-bracing at its fully refined configuration. Hide glue construction. These are the guitars against which all subsequent dreadnoughts are measured.

Collector's Notes

Late 1930s herringbone D-28s are the benchmark for acoustic guitar tone. Verify scalloped bracing, herringbone purfling, and Brazilian rosewood. Hide glue construction throughout.