Post-War Martin D-18 Value Guide

The post-war Martin D-18 (1945-1969) represents a transition period in the history of the Martin company, when production moved from wartime constraints to the re-establishment of standard production. While these guitars may not have the same historical cachet as their pre-war counterparts, they are highly regarded for their exceptional build quality and tone, and they remain a favorite among players and collectors today.

After the war, Martin continued to refine its design, and the D-18 saw several subtle but important changes:

• Sitka spruce tops, which offered a slightly warmer and more responsive tone compared to the earlier Adirondack spruce.

• Indian rosewood back and sides, which replaced the Brazilian rosewood used in pre-war models. Though not as rare, Indian rosewood still provides a rich, balanced tone with great sustain.

• Modified X-bracing after 1944, which produced a slightly different tonal profile but still retained much of the guitar’s projection and clarity.

These post-war models remain a key part of Martin's legacy, with 1950s and early 1960s D-18s being particularly valuable due to their superb craftsmanship and the aging of the wood.

Price Ranges:

• Mint or All-Original Post-War D-18s (1945–1969): These guitars, particularly those from the 1950s and early 1960s, can command prices in the $10,000 to $20,000 range, depending on the condition and originality.

• Excellent Condition Post-War D-18s: Well-maintained models with minimal wear, original parts, and no significant repairs can fetch anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000.

• Player-Grade Post-War D-18s: These guitars, with honest wear, minor repairs, or replaced parts, often fall in the $4,000 to $7,000 range, depending on playability and tone.

While these guitars are generally not as rare as their pre-war siblings, they are still highly prized by players for their beautiful sound and great playability.

Why Post-War D-18s Are Valuable:

• Rich Tone: The combination of Sitka spruce tops and Indian rosewood back and sides creates a warm, balanced tone with excellent bass response, clarity, and projection.

• Craftsmanship: Post-war D-18s are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, with Martin continuing its tradition of making durable, finely built instruments. Many players prefer the feel and playability of these models, particularly the 1950s D-18s, which are considered some of the best examples of post-war Martin guitars.

• Continued Popularity: The D-18 has long been the standard for bluegrass and folk players, and its popularity remains strong due to its versatility and tone. These guitars are seen as the go-to dreadnought for rhythm and fingerstyle playing, with some even opting for post-war D-18s in the studio and on stage.