1940 Martin 00-18: The Golden Era Mahogany Beauty That Defined American Acoustic Craftsmanship

Why the 1940 Martin 00-18 Matters

The 1940 Martin 00-18 represents one of the finest examples of pre-war American guitar craftsmanship during what collectors consider the absolute golden era of Martin production. Built just before World War II disrupted guitar manufacturing and material availability, these instruments showcase the pinnacle of traditional guitar-making techniques that had been refined over decades.

What makes the 1940 00-18 historically significant:

• Red Spruce Top: Made from old-growth Adirondack red spruce that was becoming increasingly scarce

• Scalloped X-Bracing: Hand-carved bracing that provided both strength and tonal resonance

• Pre-War Construction: Built before wartime material shortages affected quality

• Classic Proportions: The 00 size represented Martin's perfect balance of projection and playability

• Mahogany Excellence: Premium mahogany back and sides from sustainable old-growth forests

• Hand-Crafted Details: Every element built by skilled craftsmen using traditional methods

The 1940 00-18 sits at a unique crossroads in Martin history—representing the culmination of decades of refinement while being among the last instruments made before the war years changed everything about guitar manufacturing.

Historical Context of Martin in 1940

The Company at Its Peak

By 1940, C.F. Martin & Company had been perfecting their craft for over a century. Under the leadership of Frank Henry Martin (C.F. Martin's great-grandson), the company was producing some of the finest acoustic guitars ever made. The Nazareth, Pennsylvania factory was operating at full capacity, employing skilled craftsmen who had learned their trade through generations of guitar-making tradition.

Pre-War Golden Era Specifications

The 1940 00-18 was built during what many consider the absolute pinnacle of Martin's golden era. Several factors made this year particularly special:

Material Quality: Martin still had access to premium old-growth woods that would become unavailable during and after the war years. The red spruce tops were cut from ancient Adirondack forests, providing unparalleled tonal qualities that modern spruce cannot match.

Construction Techniques: The scalloped X-bracing system used in 1940 was hand-carved by master craftsmen, creating the perfect balance between structural integrity and tonal resonance. This technique required exceptional skill and time—luxuries that would be compromised during wartime production.

Artist Recognition: By 1940, Martin guitars were becoming the choice of professional musicians and recording artists. The smaller 00 size was particularly popular among fingerstyle players and recording artists who needed an instrument that could cut through early recording equipment while maintaining tonal complexity.

The 00 Size Legacy

Martin's 00 (double-ought) size, introduced in the 1870s, had by 1940 established itself as one of the most versatile and beloved body sizes in acoustic guitar history. The 1940 00-18 continued this tradition with a body that was large enough to provide substantial projection yet intimate enough for fingerstyle playing and close recording work.

Current Market Value (2025 Update)

The vintage guitar market has seen significant appreciation for pre-war Martin guitars, with 1940 00-18 models commanding premium prices among collectors and players alike.

Value Factors Specific to 1940 Models

Red Spruce Premium: 1940 Martin 00-18s with original red spruce tops represent an excellent opportunity for players seeking scalloped-braced vintage Martins and typically command 15-20% more than later models with different spruce types.

Scalloped Bracing: The hand-scalloped X-bracing found in 1940 models is highly prized by collectors and adds significant value compared to later straight-braced instruments.

Pre-War Provenance: Instruments from 1940 carry the cachet of being among the last pre-war Martins, making them particularly desirable to collectors who value historical significance.

Condition Premium: Vintage steel string 00-18s are typically worth about $5,000-$5,500 depending on year and condition, though exceptional 1940 examples can command significantly higher prices.

At Edgewater Guitars, we consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops for premium vintage Martin examples, recognizing the true market value of these exceptional instruments.

Detailed Identification Guide

Serial Number Dating

1940 Martin 00-18 guitars typically carry serial numbers in the range of approximately 74,000 to 75,000. A documented 1940 Martin 00-18 carries serial number 74767, which falls squarely in this range. The serial number is stamped inside the sound hole on a paper label, though some may also have the number stamped on the neck block.

Key Visual Identifiers

Body Construction:

• Lower bout: 14-7/16"

• Upper bout: 10-13/16"

• Body length: 18-13/16" with scale length of 24.86"

• Depth at neck block: 3-5/16", depth at end block: 4-1/16"

Neck Specifications:

• Neck width at nut: 1.69"

• String spacing at bridge: 2.14"

• Ebony fretboard with simple dot position markers

• 12-fret neck joint (14-fret versions didn't become standard until later)

Wood and Construction Details

Top Wood: Red Spruce (Adirondack spruce) top providing the attractive coloring and fine sound characteristic of pre-war Martins

Back and Sides: Mahogany back and sides in the classic Mahogany/Adirondack Spruce combination that is timeless for its powerful, quick, and clear tonal qualities

Internal Construction:

• Scalloped X-bracing carved by hand

• Traditional hide glue construction

• Cloth sound hole reinforcement

• Wooden bridgeplate

Hardware and Appointments

Bridge: Original full height ebony bridge with simple rectangular design Tuners: Original open-gear tuners with white celluloid buttons Pickguard: Rich tortoise pickguard in the traditional teardrop shape Binding: Simple white binding around the top edge Purfling: Black and white purfling around the sound hole

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Dimensions and Weight

• Total Length: Approximately 38"

• Body Width (Lower Bout): 14-7/16"

• Body Width (Upper Bout): 10-13/16"

• Body Depth: Varies from 3-5/16" at neck to 4-1/16" at tail

• Typical Weight: 3.2 - 3.8 pounds (lighter than modern guitars due to thinner finish)

Neck Profile and Playability

The 1940 neck profile is substantial but comfortable, reflecting the playing styles popular during that era. The neck was designed primarily for fingerstyle playing and chord work, with a profile that modern players find both substantial and rewarding.

Scale Length and Setup

• Scale Length: 24.86" (Martin's standard short scale)

• Fret Count: 12 frets clear of the body (typical for the era)

• Action: Originally set up for medium-gauge strings, though many have been adjusted for lighter modern strings

Electronics and Hardware

As was standard for the era, the 1940 00-18 was built as a purely acoustic instrument with no provisions for amplification. All hardware was functional and utilitarian, reflecting Martin's philosophy of letting the wood and construction speak for themselves.

Tonal Characteristics

The Classic 1940 Sound Profile

The Mahogany/Adirondack Spruce combination delivers tonal qualities that are powerful, quick, and clear, with decades of opening up and drying out making them even better. The 1940 00-18 produces a sound that perfectly balances warmth and clarity.

Treble Response: The aged red spruce top provides crystalline highs with complex overtones Midrange: The mahogany back and sides contribute warm, woody mids that are never muddy Bass Response: Controlled and focused low-end that doesn't overwhelm the mix Dynamic Range: Responds beautifully to different playing dynamics, from gentle fingerpicking to aggressive strumming

Why the Scalloped Bracing Matters

The hand-scalloped X-bracing system used in 1940 creates a top that's both structurally sound and acoustically responsive. Unlike later straight-braced guitars, the scalloped bracing allows the spruce top to vibrate more freely while maintaining structural integrity. This results in:

• Enhanced sustain and resonance

• Better note separation in complex chord voicings

• Improved projection despite the smaller body size

• Rich harmonic content that develops over decades of play

Comparison to Modern Instruments

Modern Martin 00-18 guitars, while excellent instruments, cannot replicate the tonal characteristics of a 1940 model. The combination of old-growth woods, traditional construction techniques, and decades of aging creates a sound that is both historically significant and musically superior.

Common Issues and Modifications to Watch For

Typical Age-Related Issues

Finish Checking: Natural lacquer checking is normal and expected in 80+ year old instruments. Extensive checking can actually be a sign of authenticity, as it indicates original nitrocellulose finish.

Neck Resets: Many vintage Martins require neck resets to maintain proper action and intonation, which is considered routine maintenance rather than damage. A properly executed neck reset doesn't significantly impact value.

Bridge Issues: Original full height bridges are prized, and maintaining the original bridge is important for both tone and value.

Modifications That Affect Value

Refinishing: Complete refinishing can reduce value by 40-60%, even when expertly done. Original finish, even with significant wear, is always preferable.

Replaced Parts: Non-original tuners, bridges, or nuts reduce value. Original tuners, saddle, and frets are particularly important for maintaining authenticity.

Structural Repairs: Professional restoration work, including crack repairs, doesn't necessarily hurt value if done properly, but the work should be documented and performed by recognized experts.

Authentication Concerns

Reproduction Models: Martin has never made exact reproductions of 1940 00-18 guitars, so authentic vintage examples are easily distinguished from modern instruments.

Converted Instruments: Be wary of guitars that may have been converted from other models or years. Check that all features are consistent with 1940 specifications.

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1940 00-18

Playing Characteristics

Fingerstyle Excellence: The 00 body size and scalloped bracing make these guitars exceptional for fingerstyle playing. The note separation and dynamic response are outstanding.

Recording Quality: There's no style of play or music this guitar won't accommodate with aplomb, and its depth of tone will delight anyone seeking golden-era Martin luster.

Comfort and Playability: The smaller body size makes these guitars comfortable for extended playing sessions while still providing substantial projection.

Collector Appeal

Historical Significance: As pre-war instruments, 1940 00-18 guitars represent a specific moment in American guitar-making history.

Material Quality: The old-growth woods used in 1940 are no longer available, making these instruments irreplaceable.

Craftsmanship: The hand-scalloped bracing and traditional construction techniques showcase the pinnacle of acoustic guitar craftsmanship.

Investment Potential

Vintage Martin guitars have shown consistent appreciation over decades, with pre-war examples leading the market. The 1940 00-18 offers several investment advantages:

• Limited supply with no possibility of reproduction using original materials

• Growing recognition among younger players of vintage instrument quality

• Increasing scarcity as examples are damaged or modified over time

• Strong emotional appeal that transcends pure collectibility

Selling Your 1940 Martin 00-18

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars

If you own a 1940 Martin 00-18, Edgewater Guitars offers distinct advantages over other selling options:

Premium Valuations: Our deep knowledge of vintage Martin guitars allows us to recognize and pay for the subtle factors that make certain examples more valuable. We consistently pay 30-40% more than local guitar shops because we understand the true collector market.

Expert Authentication: Our team can properly identify and document the specific features that make your 1940 00-18 valuable, including verification of original components and assessment of any restoration work.

Immediate Payment: Unlike consignment shops or online sales, we provide immediate cash payment for qualified instruments. No waiting periods, no uncertain outcomes.

Specialized Knowledge: We understand the specific market for pre-war Martin guitars and have buyers specifically seeking 1940 00-18 models.

The Edgewater Advantage Over Other Options

Compared to Local Guitar Shops: Most local shops don't have the specialized knowledge to properly value pre-war Martin guitars. They often offer conservative valuations because they don't understand the collector market.

Compared to Online Sales: Selling a valuable vintage instrument online involves risks, fees, and uncertainties. Our direct purchase eliminates these concerns while providing fair market value.

Compared to Auction Houses: While auction houses can achieve high prices, they charge substantial fees and provide no guarantees. We offer the certainty of immediate purchase at fair market value.

Recent Purchase Example

We recently acquired a 1940 Martin 00-18 from a collector in Columbus who had inherited the instrument from his father, a professional musician from the 1950s. The guitar had been sitting in its original case for decades, and the owner wasn't sure of its value.

Our expert evaluation revealed that the instrument retained all original components, including the rare original full-height bridge and original tuners. Despite some finish checking and minor wear, the guitar's exceptional tone and complete originality made it highly desirable.

We provided an immediate cash offer that exceeded the owner's expectations by more than $3,500 compared to quotes from local guitar shops. The transaction was completed within 48 hours, and the seller commented on our professionalism and deep knowledge of vintage Martin guitars.

Related Resources and Authentication Tools

Serial Number and Dating Resources

• Martin Guitar Official Serial Number Lookup

• Vintage Martin Guitar Dating Guides

• Pre-War Martin Identification Resources

Additional Information

• Complete Guide to Martin Guitar Sizes and Models

• Understanding Martin's Golden Era Construction

• Vintage Martin Guitar Care and Maintenance

• Martin Guitar Value Trends and Market Analysis

Expert References

For additional authentication and valuation questions, consult:

• "Gruhn's Guide to Vintage Guitars" - The definitive resource for vintage guitar identification

• "Martin Guitar: History and Technical Specifications" - Comprehensive technical documentation

• The Unofficial Martin Guitar Forum - Community knowledge and expert opinions

Ready to Sell Your 1940 Martin 00-18?

Edgewater Guitars specializes in purchasing premium vintage guitars throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia. We travel to you for high-value instruments like 1940 Martin 00-18 guitars, providing on-site evaluation and immediate payment.

Get Your Free Valuation Today

• Call us directly at (440) 219-3607

• Use our online guitar evaluation form

• Email photos and details for preliminary assessment

Why Sell to Edgewater?

• 30-40% higher offers than local guitar shops

• Immediate cash payment

• Expert authentication and evaluation

• Zero-hassle transaction process

• Specialized knowledge of vintage Martin guitars

The 1940 Martin 00-18 represents more than just a vintage guitar—it's a piece of American musical history that deserves to be properly valued and appreciated. If you're considering selling your 1940 00-18, contact Edgewater Guitars today for a fair, professional evaluation that recognizes the true worth of this exceptional instrument.

About the Author: The Edgewater Guitars team includes certified vintage guitar appraisers with over 20 years of combined experience in vintage Martin guitar authentication and valuation. We are authorized Martin Guitar dealers and members of the Professional Appraisers Organization.