1973 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45
A mid-1970s Indian rosewood D-45 — Martin's flagship model in its standard post-Brazilian configuration. The abalone inlay work is spectacular and the spruce top ages into excellent tone.
Current Market Value
Excellent
$20,000–$38,000
Very Good
$12,000–$20,000
Good
$7,500–$12,000
Fair
$3,800–$7,500
* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology
Specifications
| Body Wood | Spruce (top), Indian Rosewood (back and sides) |
| 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 | 420 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic — full abalone inlay treatment.
What Changed in 1973
Mid-1970s D-45 production increasing. Indian rosewood fully established. The D-45 remained Martin's flagship — the most ornate production acoustic guitar available.
Collector's Notes
Indian rosewood D-45s from the 1970s represent excellent value in the D-45 lineage. The abalone ornamentation alone represents significant labor and materials. Check inlay adhesion and condition.