Martin D-21 Serial No. 182716

by Steve Darwin
(Seabrook, Texas)

My father bought this guitar in 1960 new and paid $360 for it (I think). It has been used and there are pick scratches below the strings. Although weathered, I have the original case as well. Can you please tell me what it is worth?

ANSWER

Hi, Steve--

The serial number indicates an early 1962 manufacture date.

Martin did not make a D-27 model. I am assuming that it is in fact a D-21 because of the similarity of the numbers and because the manufacture period matches this model.


Here is the Blue Book general info:

D-21
- dreadnought body style, solid spruce top, Brazilian rosewood back and sides, round soundhole with herringbone rosette (1/9/1 grouping), five-ply top binding, one-ply back binding with tortoise (1955-1966) or black (1966-69) outer layer, mahogany neck, 14/20-fret Brazilian rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays, three-per-side chrome tuners, Brazilian rosewood bridge, tortoise (1955-1966) or black (1966-69) pickguard, Natural finish, total production of 2,933 instruments, mfg. 1955-1969.

The pricing info:

1961-1965
Excellent $5,250 - 6,500
Average $3,500 - 4,250

Best Wishes,
Lynne

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