1955 C.F. Martin & Co. D-28
The quintessential 1950s D-28 — Brazilian rosewood, spruce top, and the refined post-war construction. The go-to acoustic for folk and country players of the era.
Current Market Value
Excellent
$12,000–$24,000
Very Good
$7,500–$12,000
Good
$4,500–$7,500
Fair
$2,200–$4,500
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Spruce (top), Brazilian Rosewood (back and sides) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony (transitioning to rosewood) |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony or rosewood belly bridge |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite |
| Nut Width | 1.69" |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 1,800 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1955
Peak 1950s D-28 production. Brazilian rosewood in excellent supply. Non-scalloped bracing fully established. These were becoming the standard reference guitar for folk, country, and bluegrass musicians.
Collector's Notes
Brazilian rosewood should show deep color and figure. Common maintenance issues: neck reset (expected), fret wear, and bridge replacement. A well-maintained 1950s D-28 with original bridge is a sound investment.