1964 Martin D-28: The Final Year of Brazilian Rosewood Perfection

Why the 1964 Martin D-28 Represents the End of an Era

The 1964 Martin D-28 stands as one of the most significant guitars in American acoustic history—representing the final year of several traditional construction methods that defined the golden age of Martin craftsmanship. Built in Martin's original factory using hide glue construction, featuring the classic through-saddle design, and adorned with premium Brazilian rosewood, these instruments captured the pinnacle of C.F. Martin & Company's traditional methods before modernization transformed the company forever.

What makes 1964 exceptionally important:

• Last year of hide glue construction: Traditional animal hide glue provided superior resonance transfer compared to modern synthetic adhesives

• Final year of through-saddle bridges: The classic bone saddle design that passed completely through the bridge for maximum string energy transfer

• Peak Brazilian rosewood quality: Premium cuts of old-growth Brazilian rosewood before import restrictions tightened

• Pre-modern factory techniques: Hand-selected materials and traditional craftsmanship before mass production methods

• Transitional specifications: Perfect balance of traditional construction with refined modern playability

Historical Context: Martin's Golden Age Reaches Its Conclusion

The year 1964 marked a crucial transition point for C.F. Martin & Company. After building guitars in their original Nazareth factory for decades using traditional European-derived techniques, the company was on the verge of major changes that would reshape guitar construction forever.

What Was Happening at Martin in 1964

During 1964, Martin was still operating from their original Cherry Street factory in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where craftsmen employed techniques largely unchanged since the 19th century. Between about 1948 and 1964 little had changed in the design of a Martin D-28. Minor variations in bracing layout, pickguard shape and differences in tuning machines were about all that Martin tweaked during that period.

The company was still using premium Brazilian rosewood for their Style 28 instruments, sourced during an era when this tonewood was more readily available. Master craftsmen hand-selected each piece of wood, ensuring the dramatic figuring and tonal qualities that made these guitars legendary.

The Approaching Changes

Soon after this guitar was built in Martin's new Sycamore factory things began to change in the design of most Martin models. Drop-in saddle bridges, black pickguards, hollow tube neck support, bigger bridgeplates, and ultimately, the switch to Indian rosewood all occurred in the second half of the 1960s.

By 1965, Martin had moved production to their new Sycamore Street facility and began implementing modern production techniques. The romantic era of small-shop guitar building was giving way to increased efficiency and modernization.

Artists Who Made the D-28 Famous

During the 1960s, the Martin D-28 was gaining recognition among folk and country musicians who appreciated its powerful projection and rich tonal complexity. The instrument's reputation was being built by countless studio musicians and touring artists who relied on its consistent performance and distinctive voice.

Detailed Identification Guide for 1964 Martin D-28

Serial Number Ranges and Dating

1964 Martin D-28 guitars typically carry 6-digit serial numbers ranging from approximately 190000 to 210000. Serial Number 199141 and SN: 194689 are documented examples from 1964 production.

The serial number is stamped on a paper label visible through the sound hole, glued to the center strip inside the guitar. Martin's dating during this period is generally reliable, though exact production months can vary within the year.

Authentic 1964 Construction Features

Through-Saddle Bridge Design: The 1964 D-28 features Martin's traditional through-saddle bridge where the bone saddle passes completely through the ebony bridge from front to back. 1964 was the last year Martin used hide glue and the through-saddle, making this a critical identifying feature.

Hide Glue Construction: The serial dates it to the old factory, so it was still constructed using hide glue. This traditional adhesive provides superior resonance transfer compared to modern synthetic glues and can be identified by its characteristic amber color and brittle nature when aged.

Brazilian Rosewood Verification: Authentic 1964 Brazilian rosewood displays several distinctive characteristics:

• Grain Pattern: Straight grain with occasional dramatic figuring including "spiderweb" patterns

• Color Variation: Ranges from medium coffee brown to deep purple highlights

• Density: Noticeably heavier than Indian rosewood with a harder, more resonant tap tone

• Aroma: Distinctive sweet, rose-like scent when freshly worked

Hardware and Appointments

Tuning Machines: Most 1964 D-28s came equipped with:

• Grover Rotomatic tuners with "Patent Pending" stamp

• Chrome-plated finish (gold was a special order option)

• original factory ordered gold plated grovers were available as upgrade option

• Six-on-a-side configuration with traditional button style

Pickguard:

• Original tortoiseshell celluloid pickguard

• Teardrop shape with subtle grain patterns

• typical tiny shrinkage crack between guard and bridge is normal aging

Position Markers:

• Mother-of-pearl dot inlays at 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 12th, 15th, 17th, and 19th frets

• Simple dot design without elaborate inlay work

• Clean, precise installation typical of Martin craftsmanship

Detailed Physical Specifications

Body Dimensions and Construction

• Body Length: 20 inches

• Body Width: 15⅝ inches (lower bout)

• Body Depth: 4¾ inches

• Weight Range: Weight 4 lb 12 oz typical for Brazilian rosewood examples

• Top Wood: Solid Sitka spruce with traditional X-bracing

• Back and Sides: Solid Brazilian rosewood (Dalbergia nigra)

• Bracing: Non-scalloped X-bracing with traditional Martin pattern

Neck Specifications

• Neck Width at Nut: 1 11/16″

• Neck Material: One-piece Honduras mahogany

• Fretboard: Solid ebony with 20 frets

• Fretboard Radius: Traditional flat radius (approximately 16")

• Scale Length: 25.4 inches (long scale)

• Neck Profile: Medium V-shape, comfortable for both rhythm and lead playing

Hardware Details

• Bridge: Solid ebony with through-saddle design

• Saddle: Bone, passing completely through bridge

• Bridge Pins: Original cream pins with red dots

• Nut: Bone, hand-shaped and fitted

• Tuners: Grover Rotomatic (chrome standard, gold optional)

Tonal Characteristics of the 1964 Martin D-28

The 1964 Martin D-28 represents the pinnacle of traditional Martin tone, combining the resonant qualities of premium Brazilian rosewood with the projection power of the dreadnought body size.

Sound Profile

The voice is dry, clear and loud as a cannon, with smooth low action over a straight clear dark ebony fingerboard. The tonal characteristics include:

Bass Response: Deep, woody bass tones with excellent definition and separation. The Brazilian rosewood back provides complex harmonic overtones that add richness without muddiness.

Midrange Character: Warm, woody midrange with excellent note separation. The hide glue construction and through-saddle design contribute to enhanced sustain and tonal complexity.

Treble Response: Clear, bell-like trebles with excellent projection. The aged Sitka spruce top provides crisp note definition while maintaining warmth.

Dynamic Range: Exceptional responsiveness to playing dynamics, from subtle fingerpicking to aggressive flatpicking. A bold strummer and strong flatpicker, this Brazilian D-28 does exactly what a vintage Martin dreadnought is supposed to do

How Construction Affects Tone

Hide Glue Benefits: Traditional hide glue creates a more flexible bond that allows the wood to vibrate more freely, contributing to enhanced resonance and tonal complexity.

Through-Saddle Advantage: The through-saddle design provides direct energy transfer from strings to the guitar top, resulting in improved sustain and tonal clarity.

Brazilian Rosewood Impact: Brazilian Rosewood is renowned for its brilliant, bell-like tone, and dramatic highly figur[ed patterns] The density and cell structure of Brazilian rosewood contributes complex harmonic overtones and enhanced sustain.

Common Issues and Modifications to Watch For

When evaluating a 1964 Martin D-28, several age-related issues and common modifications should be carefully assessed:

Typical Age-Related Issues

Neck Reset Requirements: May benefit from a neck reset for low action is common for 60-year-old instruments. This is normal maintenance rather than a defect, though it affects immediate playability and value.

Bridge and Saddle Wear:

• Saddle has been lowered is common as guitars settle over time

• Bridge plate wear from years of string tension

• Bridge pin holes may show enlargement from repeated string changes

Finish and Cosmetic Issues:

• mainly the lacquer chips and faded lacquer, with a few small touch ups

• only a few scattered lacquer nicks, mostly on the back of the neck

• Natural checking and crazing in the nitrocellulose finish

Common Modifications That Affect Value

Pickguard Replacement: The pickguard has been replaced is relatively common as original tortoiseshell pickguards can shrink and crack over time. While this affects originality, it's often necessary for instrument preservation.

Electronics Additions: Aftermarket pickup installations were common modifications in the 1970s-1980s. While they affect collector value, they can often be reversed by skilled luthiers.

Strap Button Installation: Strap button professionally installed in neck heel is a common and relatively minor modification that doesn't significantly impact value when professionally done.

Red Flags for Buyers

Refinishing: Complete refinishing dramatically reduces value and should be carefully evaluated. Look for overspray in binding areas or inside the guitar.

Structural Repairs: No visible cracks and it doesn't have any cracks are important condition factors. Any crack repairs should be disclosed and evaluated.

Non-Original Parts: Replacement bridges, necks, or other major components significantly impact both value and tone.

Why Players and Collectors Value the 1964 Martin D-28

Playing Characteristics

The 1964 Martin D-28 offers a playing experience that modern instruments struggle to replicate. This 1964 guitar features all the pre-'65 features that we equate with a vintage D-28 The combination of traditional construction methods and premium materials creates an instrument with exceptional responsiveness and tonal complexity.

Comfort and Playability:

• Traditional neck profile fits most playing styles comfortably

• smooth low action over a straight clear dark ebony fingerboard

• Balanced string tension across all six strings

Tonal Versatility: The 1964 D-28 excels in multiple musical contexts:

• Bluegrass: Powerful projection for rhythm and lead work

• Folk: Warm, woody tone perfect for fingerpicking and storytelling

• Country: Clear note separation for complex chord work and chicken picking

• Recording: Excellent microphone response and tonal consistency

Collector Appeal Factors

Historical Significance: This 1964 guitar features all the pre-'65 features that we equate with a vintage D-28 As the final year of traditional construction methods, 1964 instruments represent the end of an era in American guitar making.

Rarity and Appreciation: With Brazilian rosewood becoming increasingly rare and hide glue construction representing historical craftsmanship, these instruments continue to appreciate as both musical instruments and collectible artifacts.

Investment Potential: Brazilian rosewood Martin guitars have shown consistent appreciation over decades, with exceptional examples experiencing significant value growth as supplies become more limited.

Musical Heritage: The 1964 D-28 represents the instrument that defined the sound of American acoustic music during a pivotal cultural period.

Selling Your 1964 Martin D-28: Maximizing Value Through Expert Evaluation

If you own a 1964 Martin D-28, you possess one of the most sought-after acoustic guitars in the vintage market. At Edgewater Guitars, we specialize in recognizing and fairly pricing these exceptional instruments, ensuring you receive maximum value for your cherished guitar.

Why Choose Edgewater Guitars for Your 1964 D-28

Premium Valuations for Brazilian Rosewood Martins: We consistently pay 30-40% more than typical guitar shops because we understand the true collector and player value of Brazilian rosewood instruments. Our expertise in vintage Martin identification ensures that unique features like original Grover tuners, exceptional wood figure, and verified hide glue construction receive appropriate premium pricing.

Expert Authentication Services: Our team includes specialists in Martin guitar dating and authentication who can:

• Verify original hide glue construction through non-destructive testing

• Confirm Brazilian rosewood authenticity using wood identification techniques

• Document original hardware and appointments for maximum value assessment

• Identify transitional features unique to 1964 production

Streamlined Process for High-Value Instruments:

• Immediate Cash Offers: No waiting periods or consignment fees

• Professional Photography: Complete documentation for insurance and historical records

• Secure Transportation: White-glove handling for valuable vintage instruments

• Discretionary Service: Confidential transactions with complete privacy protection

How We Differ from Other Buying Options

Compared to Local Guitar Shops: Most guitar shops lack the specialized knowledge to properly evaluate Brazilian rosewood Martins or may not have the capital to make appropriate offers for instruments in the $8,000-$15,000 range.

Compared to Online Sales: Selling a valuable vintage guitar online involves significant risks including shipping damage, buyer disputes, and lengthy transaction processes. Our direct purchase eliminates these concerns while providing immediate payment.

Compared to Auction Houses: Auction fees, lengthy processes, and uncertain outcomes make direct sales more attractive for most sellers. We provide guaranteed pricing without the uncertainty of auction results.

Ready to discover what your 1964 Martin D-28 is worth? Contact Edgewater Guitars today for your free, no-obligation professional valuation. Call us directly at (440) 219-3607 or submit photos through our online evaluation form.

Related Resources for Martin D-28 Owners

Authentication and Dating Resources

• Martin Guitar Serial Number Database: Official Martin company dating resources

• Brazilian Rosewood Identification Guide: Visual guides for authentic Brazilian rosewood verification

• Hide Glue Construction Identification: Technical resources for verifying traditional construction methods

• Vintage Martin Hardware Guide: Reference materials for original tuners, bridges, and appointments

Additional Selling Guides

• Selling Brazilian Rosewood Instruments: Specialized guide for premium vintage acoustic guitars

• Martin D-28 Value Factors: Comprehensive guide to features that affect vintage Martin pricing

• Vintage Guitar Documentation: Best practices for photographing and documenting valuable instruments

Other Vintage Martin Models We Purchase

• 1963 Martin D-28: The previous year's production with similar construction methods

• 1965 Martin D-28: Early transition year with mixed traditional and modern features

• Martin D-35: Three-piece Brazilian rosewood back guitars from the 1960s

• Martin D-45: Premium appointment Brazilian rosewood instruments

Expert Authentication and Valuation Services

Whether you're considering selling or simply want to know more about your 1964 Martin D-28, Edgewater Guitars offers comprehensive evaluation services throughout Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia.

Our evaluation process includes:

• Complete authentication of year and model

• Brazilian rosewood verification using expert wood identification

• Original hardware assessment and documentation

• Structural integrity evaluation

• Market valuation based on current collector trends

• Professional photography for insurance documentation

For high-value instruments like 1964 Brazilian rosewood D-28s, we travel to you for secure, in-person evaluation.

Contact Edgewater Guitars today to schedule your professional evaluation or to receive your free online valuation. Our team of vintage Martin specialists is ready to help you understand the true value of your exceptional instrument.

Call (440) 219-3607 or visit our online evaluation form to get started.

Edgewater Guitars: Where vintage guitar expertise meets fair market pricing for collectors throughout the Midwest.