1940 Martin D-28

Serial # 76284. A strong and lively Pre-War D-28, in excellent condition, and well set-up. Fewer than 800 fourteen fret D-28s had been built prior to the USA’s war declaration in late 1941; and this is one of 134 built in 1940. It has survived the seventy-plus years very well, and is crack-free but for a small repaired pickguard crack.

Scalloped braced Red Spruce top, quartered Brazilian rosewood back and sides, Herringbone purflings, zig-zag back strip, slotted diamond fingerboard inlays. 1-11/16” nut width, 25.4” scale ebony fingerboard. The bridge is a nicely made replacement that’s about 1/16” oversized. Bridge pins, Grover tuners, and finish are original.

Likely a couple of neck resets in this guitar’s past, the most recent of which was done by David Musselwhite. We suspect that the fingerboard was removed and reglued during one of the resets, but can’t say that with 100% certainty; the neck finish is original where it’s not worn off entirely. Frets have been replaced a few times, as well. Current frets are in good shape with not much pitting or playwear. Replacement bone nut. The top’s finish is play-worn on both sides of the fingerboard extension, and lightly sealed with shellac in the area. The pickguard has been cleanly reglued, and a section of X-brace has been reglued. The guitar shows no further repairs or modifications. Braces and bridgeplate are tightly glued and in excellent structural order.

The guitar is powerful, dark, resonant, and responsive. An exceptional flatpicker and strummer, and a perfect choice for the player who wants true pre-war Herringbone tone and a slimmer and more modern neck feel. Set up in-shop with medium gauge strings and an action of 5-6 64ths.

With original hardshell case

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