1965 C.F. Martin & Co. D-35

The original 1965 D-35 — Martin's response to rosewood shortages. The three-piece back is a design innovation that produces a uniquely complex, full sound. First-year examples are relatively rare.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$6,000$12,000
Very Good
$4,000$6,000
Good
$2,500$4,000
Fair
$1,200$2,500

* 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 — three-piece back design)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardRosewood
Scale Length25.400"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone (acoustic)
BridgeRosewood belly bridge
TunersGrover Sta-Tite
Finish OptionsNatural
Est. Production450

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic.

What Changed in 1965

First year of the D-35 — Martin's creative solution to declining wide-plank rosewood availability. The three-piece back using narrower rosewood strips created a unique tonal character. Brazilian rosewood was used in the first years (1965-1966 examples have been documented with Brazilian). First year examples are rare.

Collector's Notes

First-year D-35s (1965-1966) are the most collected. The three-piece back is a genuine construction feature — not a cost-cutting measure. Some early examples may have Brazilian rosewood — verify carefully as this significantly affects value.