1969 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
The first year of the reissued D-45 (1968-1969) with Brazilian rosewood — capturing much of the pre-war magic in a more attainable package. These are the finest post-war D-45s and command prices that reflect their beauty.
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, final years of Brazilian rosewood) |
| 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 | 165 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic.
What Changed in 1969
The D-45 was reintroduced in 1968 after a 26-year absence. 1969 models still use Brazilian rosewood — the final year before Indian rosewood was substituted across Martin's line. These reissues are the most collectible post-war D-45s.
Collector's Notes
Brazilian rosewood reissue D-45s (1968-1969) are significantly more valuable than Indian rosewood versions. Verify Brazilian rosewood by grain, color, and if possible by documentation. The abalone should be well-adhered and original.
How to Authenticate a 1969 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 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. 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.