1946 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28

The last herringbone D-28 — 1946 is the final year with herringbone purfling, making it a significant transitional instrument. Non-scalloped bracing is standard but the herringbone trim links it to the pre-war era.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$25,000$48,000
Very Good
$15,000$25,000
Good
$9,000$15,000
Fair
$4,500$9,000

* 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, non-scalloped bracing)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length25.400"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone (acoustic)
BridgeEbony belly bridge
TunersGrover Sta-Tite
Finish OptionsNatural
Est. Production480

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic.

What Changed in 1946

Last year of herringbone purfling on the D-28. Non-scalloped bracing is now standard. Post-war production is ramping up. This is the final transitional year before the fully post-war D-28 emerged in 1947.

Collector's Notes

1946 D-28s with herringbone are highly sought — the last year of the trim. These bridge the pre-war and post-war eras. Non-scalloped bracing but herringbone trim creates a unique combination.