1969 C.F. Martin & Co. D-35
Late 1960s D-35 at its production peak. The three-piece rosewood back delivers a balanced, resonant tone that many professional players prefer to the D-28.
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), Indian Rosewood (back and sides — three-piece back) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Rosewood belly bridge |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 2,100 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1969
The D-35 was becoming an established model in Martin's line. Production was increasing as demand grew. These are excellent instruments with the three-piece back's unique resonant quality.
Collector's Notes
The D-35 is often overlooked in favor of the D-28, creating value opportunities for discerning buyers. Check the three-piece back joins for any separation — this can occur with humidity changes but is repairable.
How to Authenticate a 1969 C.F. Martin & Co. D-35
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 1969, 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. Non-scalloped X-bracing pattern for this era — verify through the soundhole. Three-piece back is the D-35's distinctive feature — verify this construction detail. Brazilian rosewood three-piece back is most valuable. 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.