1968 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
The reintroduction of the D-45 after 26 years — first year back with Brazilian rosewood and full abalone treatment. Only 73 made. These first-year reissues are the most valuable post-war D-45s.
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 — reissue, first year back after 26-year absence) |
| 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) |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 73 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic — reissue with full abalone treatment.
What Changed in 1968
The D-45 returns after a 26-year absence. First year of the reissue with Brazilian rosewood — only 73 made. Non-scalloped bracing distinguishes these from pre-war examples, but Brazilian rosewood and full abalone make them highly collectible.
Collector's Notes
First-year reissue D-45s (1968) are rare and highly sought. Brazilian rosewood and low production numbers make these special. The most collectible post-war D-45 vintage.
How to Authenticate a 1968 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 1968, 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. The D-45's distinctive abalone pearl bordering on top, back, sides, fingerboard, and headstock must all be original. Verify all inlay and appointments match factory specifications. 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.