Martin Flatop Serial # 65850, Model 0018H

by Larry Bennett
(Ellijay, GA)

My Dad purchased this guitar from a Pawn Shop in 1939 in Atlanta. He was very active in the country music scene in Atlanta until he was drafted during WW II in 1942. After the war he continued to be involved in county music. He was later inducted into the Georgia Country Music Hall of Fame. All this time this was his guitar. I would like to know the value. It is in average condition.

ANSWER

Hi, Larry--

Thanks so much for sharing the story of this guitar!

The serial number indicates a late 1937 manufacture date.

Here is the Blue Book general info:

00-18H Hawaiian
- similar to the 00-18, except in Hawaiian configuration with a flat fingerboard with flush frets, a high nut, and a non-slanted saddle, total production of 255 instruments, mfg. 1935-1941.

The pricing info:

Excellent $4,000 - 5,000
Average $2,500 - 3,200

I think that with the history behind the guitar, it might be worth a little more to country music aficionados.

Best Wishes,
Lynne