1958 Martin D-18

1958 Martin D-18 – All-Original Tone Cannon with 65+ Years of Mojo

This 1958 Martin D-18 is the kind of instrument every player hopes to stumble across—unfussy, unspoiled, and absolutely alive with sound. Aside from a professional refret on frets 1–15 and a period-correct replaced pickguard pulled from a 1959 Martin D-28, this D-18 remains all original, retaining its authentic finish and even has its original nut and saddle. A small area of clear overspray around the soundhole was applied decades ago to halt picking wear and protect the top, and it blends beautifully into the guitar’s well-earned patina. This is not a case-queen. It’s a guitar that’s been played, loved, and carried through six decades by its previous owner, Danny, who cherished it for over 60 years and it has plenty of battle scars, and scratches to show that. In homage to his favorite band, The Kingston Trio, Danny once installed a double batwing pickguard, leaving behind some honest suntanning that only adds to its character and story.

Structurally, it’s rock solid with a few cracks on the side expertly repaired with bracing inside to support and a crack free back and top—a rare find for a D-18 of this era. Tonally? It’s the loudest guitar in the shop. Incredibly responsive under a flatpick, it stays open, powerful, and clear no matter how hard you dig in. There’s no compression here—just a wide-open, booming voice that keeps getting louder the more you push it. It’s the quintessential late-’50s D-18 sound: dry, woody, punchy, and exhilarating to play.

Cosmetically - Good but with plenty of wear, Structurally - Very Good, Sonically - Mind Blowing!
Action at the 12th fret 2.25mm Low E, 2mm high e. If you’re looking for a vintage Martin with soul, history, and a truly outstanding voice, this 1958 D-18 is ready for its next home—and eager for its next 65+ years of music.