1930 C.F. Martin & Co. OM-28
The original Martin OM-28 — produced only 1929-1933, then discontinued. The long-scale 000 body created the ideal fingerstyle acoustic guitar. These are among the most sought-after vintage Martins.
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 — herringbone trim) |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Ebony |
| Scale Length | 25.400" |
| Frets | 20 |
| Pickup Config | None (acoustic) |
| Bridge | Ebony belly bridge |
| Tuners | Grover Sta-Tite |
| Finish Options | Natural |
| Est. Production | 90 |
Pickups & Electronics
Pure acoustic fingerpicking guitar.
What Changed in 1930
Early OM-28 — the Orchestra Model combining the 000 body with a 25.4-inch long scale neck. Designed specifically for fingerstyle players. Only produced 1929-1933, making originals extraordinarily rare.
Collector's Notes
Original OM-28s are extremely rare — production ran only 4 years. Distinguish from later reissues (1990+) by construction details, finish aging, and documentation. Brazilian rosewood, scalloped bracing, and herringbone trim are all essential.
How to Authenticate a 1930 C.F. Martin & Co. OM-28
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 1930, 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. Orchestra Model — verify 25.4-inch scale length (longer than the similar-looking 000-28). Original 1929-1933 OM-28s are extremely rare. Banjo-style tuners on the earliest models. 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.