1942 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
The final pre-war D-45 — only 7 made in 1942 before WWII ended production. The model would be dormant for 26 years. These are among the most historically significant acoustic guitars in existence.
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), Brazilian Rosewood (back and sides — maximum abalone ornament) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony belly bridge (with abalone inlay) |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite (gold) |
| Nut Width | 1.69" |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 7 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic — final pre-war examples.
What Changed in 1942
Final year of pre-war D-45 production — only 7 made before WWII shut down the model entirely. The D-45 would not return until 1968. These are the last of the original run, representing the culmination of Martin's pre-war craftsmanship.
Collector's Notes
Final-year pre-war D-45s carry both rarity and historical significance. The 26-year production gap (1942-1968) adds to the mystique. Authentication is absolutely essential at these values.
How to Authenticate a 1942 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
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 1942, 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. Scalloped bracing should be visible through the soundhole (use mirror or inspection camera) — this is critical for pre-1944 models. The D-45's distinctive abalone pearl bordering on top, back, sides, fingerboard, and headstock must all be original. Only ~91 pre-war D-45s were made — professional authentication mandatory. Values can exceed $500,000. Check for neck resets, top cracks (especially near soundhole and bridge), and bridge plate condition. Tuners should be Grover Sta-Tite (gold). Finish should be nitrocellulose lacquer with age-appropriate wear. Original case adds value.