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Martin

Acoustic guitars

Martin guitars for sale

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Vega tenor banjo 1916 STYLE F antique w original case Martin Vega Strings new

Vega tenor banjo 1916 STYLE F antique w original case Martin Vega Strings new

Hopewell, New Jersey, 085**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$674

Vega tenor banjo 1916 STYLE F antique with the original case and banjo is in excellent condition This one was cleaned and the neck and frets cleaned and oiled. Extra bridge includedTuners work perfectlyMartin Vega Strings new17 Frets She weighs in at 4 pounds and .85 ouncesNewer Elite SkinIf you look at the pics you will see a small checking on the original thin wood over the heel . there is nothing wrong here and I am happy to answer questions. The Strings are new Martin Vega but we did not ... more
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Vintage 1970s Martin D12-20 12-string Guitar

Vintage 1970s Martin D12-20 12-string Guitar

Rowland Heights, California, 917**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4000

This vintage 1970s Martin D12-20 12-string guitar is a must-have for any serious musician or collector. With its high-quality construction and exceptional sound, this guitar is sure to impress even the most discerning buyers. Its brand, Martin, is synonymous with quality and excellence, and its series, Vintage, speaks for itself.
This guitar features a 12-string configuration and known to be from the early 1970's, making it a rare and valuable find. It falls under the categories of Musical ... more
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1921 Wurlitzer Mandolin made by Martin

1921 Wurlitzer Mandolin made by Martin

Nassau, New York, 121**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1750

For sale is a rare vintage one-of-a-kind Wurlitzer Mandoline made by Martin, crafted in 1921 and signed by Claude Phillipe, a British-Restauranter   This exceptional instrument is made from high-quality mahogany and Abalone inlay on frets, etc.
The instrument has been well-maintained and is in excellent working order. It comes with a case   Don't miss your chance to own a piece of musical history
... more
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1962 Martin D-28E Very Clean with Original Clean Hardshell Case

1962 Martin D-28E Very Clean with Original Clean Hardshell Case

Henderson, Nevada, 890**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$25000

The Rarest of the Rare in the Vintage Martin guitar lineup. This is the only one we have ever seen and it is a one owner, super clean, Brazilian spectacle! No collection would be complete without it
WE SHIP WORLDWIDE. Contact us with your full address for a shipping quote
The shipping price includes full insurance. We only ship on Tuesdays and Saturdays We have a no fee discount
We buy guitars for top dollar
Experience:
AJ's Music and Vintage guitars is avery reputable and ... more
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Alvarez Artist Series 5025A Dreadnbought Acoustic Guitar w /  Martin strings 1982

Alvarez Artist Series 5025A Dreadnbought Acoustic Guitar w / Martin strings 1982

Hopewell, New Jersey, 085**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$659

Alvarez Artist series vintage 5025A MIJ Japan made Serial number 841071
WOW!!
Here is our ??found uda da bed?? special. What a great rare vintage find.
I believe only 1000 were made and this is a limited edition 60th anniversary They were made in 1982 and there is ??82?? stamped inside on the brace by the truss rod. This one is in beautiful condition with the original case which is almost mint. No fret wear or signs of abuse . just a few light and tiny dings ??I mean a few . you can... more
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1974 Martin D 12-35 Slotted w. OHSC Blue Case Acoustic Guitar

1974 Martin D 12-35 Slotted w. OHSC Blue Case Acoustic Guitar

Tucson, Arizona, 857**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$2775

1974 Martin D 12-35 Slotted w. OHSC Blue Case Acoustic Guitar. It??s a D-35 in the 12 string model. Free Shipping!
CF Martin & Co. confirmed this SN is indeed a D12-35 from 1974. It was stamped on March 6 of that year. That is considered its 'birthday' -- when production began on it. Their spec sheet from 1974 is attached and in the case!
VVG++ condition. Stunning East Indian Rosewood back and sides with a Spruce top - all wood. Brand new Elixir Strings installed. Low Action with high ... more
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Vintage USA CF Martin Guitar Hang Tag D35 Case Candy

Vintage USA CF Martin Guitar Hang Tag D35 Case Candy

Plano, Texas, 750**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$225

Some normal light creases small tear on back page normal light wear , overall condition Nice! Original Martin hangtag , thanks for looking
... more
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1890 Martin 1-21

1890 Martin 1-21

Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$10995

1890Martin 1-21, Wonderful piece of American guitar history, Dated 1 / 90 inside (1890), Made in New York, Beautiful sounding, Lovely wide grained Spruce top, BrazilianRosewood back and sides, Perfect pyramid bridge replacement, Some minorhairline repairs, Pro neck reset, Light weight, Amazing instrument, VG++, Rareoriginal wooden coffin case with crafted metal latches in stellar condition withoriginal tag... more
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1942 Martin D-18 Vintage Acoustic Guitar

1942 Martin D-18 Vintage Acoustic Guitar

Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$31500

1942 Martin D-18, Tortoise guard, Spruce Top, Mahogany backan sides, Tortoise guard, Has had a pro neck, New bridge, Plays great andsounds Golden, One family owned, VG+, Newer hard case
... more
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1946 Martin 00-17 Acoustic Guitar

1946 Martin 00-17 Acoustic Guitar

San Francisco, California, 941**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5500

Mahogany top, back & sides
It sounds and plays as one imagines that a great guitar of this vintage would. Clearly balanced with noticeable richness. It's in good condition for its age with quite a lot of expected dings, scratches and wear - adding lots of character
There are 2 impact dings (pictured) on the bottom bout side that do not go completely through the wood. Both are not visible on the inside
One of the end pins is plastic while the others, probably not original, are ... more
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1967 Martin D-18 - Hang Tags, Receipt

1967 Martin D-18 - Hang Tags, Receipt

Lake Stevens, Washington, 982**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5250

Early 1967 Martin D-18. Includes original purchase receipt and hang tags. Some old personal letters from the original owner

Video demo: https: / / youtu be / bd-mBdGYypM?si=AIxd2ImiDp1uvxNn


This one has the typical specs for the year. Tortoiseshell pickguard. Small maple bridge plate. Spruce top with mahogany back and sides


The guitar come switch its original case


It??s been given a recent neck reset and bridge reglue. It ... more
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1968 Martin D-12-20 Acoustic 12-String Dreadnought Natural w / OHSC

1968 Martin D-12-20 Acoustic 12-String Dreadnought Natural w / OHSC

San Diego, California, 921**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3495

1968 Martin D-12-20 Dreadnought Acoustic In Natural Finish
This Guitar Is Located At IVG Sherman Oaks
In Good Overall Condition (Please See Photos)
Finish Shows Cosmetic Playwear Including Some Clouding On Top, Various Small Dings, Marks And Scratches Throughout
Repaired Side Crack With Refinished Back And Sides
Back Of Neck Shows Some Overspray On Heel And Headstock Areas
Made In Nazareth, PA
Dreadnought Body With Mahogany Back And Sides And Sitka Spruce Top
... more
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Morris Parlor FY-18 Martin 000 copy 12 Fret acoustic guitar Japan 1970s w / case

Morris Parlor FY-18 Martin 000 copy 12 Fret acoustic guitar Japan 1970s w / case

Lake Oswego, Oregon, 970**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1759

Morris Parlor FY-18 Martin 000 copy 12 Fret acoustic guitar vintage made in Japan 1970s in excellent condition with hard case

Beautiful vintage parlor guitar 12 fret guitar on consignment at our shop signed by the luthier himself . Moridaira, who established the Morris company
Excellent condition flat top , no cracks, no damage, no bellying , very nice action , firm bridge , no damage to the heel , no damage to the neck or headstock with open tuners , may show very few small dings... more
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1950 Martin 0-15 Acoustic Guitar

1950 Martin 0-15 Acoustic Guitar

Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4995

1950 Martin 0-15, This guitar sounds fantastic! Plays great with a pro neck reset, AllMahogany body with a beautiful warm resonant tonality, Comfortable small bodysize, 1 & 11 / 16 inches wide at the nut, Soft ??V?? neck profile, Pro hairlineback & center seam sealed, single replaced tuner, Light weight, Fineinstrument that is ready to enjoy, Original soft case
... more
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Original C F Martin String Replacement Kit  M2900 Full Of Vintage Strings

Original C F Martin String Replacement Kit M2900 Full Of Vintage Strings

Spring Hill, Florida, 346**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$500

Original C F Martin String Replacement Kit M2900 Full Of Vintage Strings. The logos on the outside of the box are starting to fade slightly. Other than that, great condition full of different brands of vintage strings. Please see pictures. Great dealer piece. Will ship FedEx fully insured with tracking
... more
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All original 1962 Martin 00-18

All original 1962 Martin 00-18

Redwood City, California, 940**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3850

All original 1962 Martin 00-18. Condition is Used. Shipped with UPS Ground.... more
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1969 Martin 12 string acoustic guitar

1969 Martin 12 string acoustic guitar

Castle Rock, Colorado, 801**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1200

This 1969 Martin 12 string acoustic guitar is a true gem for any music enthusiast. With its rich history and exceptional sound quality, this guitar is sure to inspire generations of musicians. The guitar is beautifully crafted by one of the most renowned guitar manufacturers of all time. The brand, Martin, is synonymous with quality and this guitar is no exception. The 12 string configuration provides a unique and beautiful sound that is perfect for any type of music. Whether you are a beginner ... more
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1961 Martin 0-18, severely damaged and modified

1961 Martin 0-18, severely damaged and modified

Socorro, New Mexico, 878**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$450

This 0-18 was abandoned in my shop decades ago. At this point I'll never get around to doing anything with it. Someone did some strange modifications to it. The replacement bridge is well made, but wtf? Wierd butresses on the neck block. One side missing. Lots of cracks on the top, back and side. One small piece of binding missing. The neck is in reasonable shape except for the fretboard planed very thin at the nut end and the tongue cut off. Original bridge plate but with oddball holes... more
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1966 Martin D-28

1966 Martin D-28

Carbondale, Illinois, 629**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$8190


Add Me to Your Favorite Sellers
Olivia's Vintage would like to present this 1966 Martin D-28 in its original finish. It has a good playing neck with good frets. There is a vintage passive Barcus Berry pickup installed in the bridge where the two pearl dot inlays are seen. The strap pin jack has a plastic housing with a couple of cracks in the plastic. This D-28 looks great with some nicks + dings, minor finish checking (almost entirely on the top of the body) and other cosmetic wear. ... more
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Vintage 1980s Martin DM-2B Sigma Guitar Owner Manual Warranty Case Candy

Vintage 1980s Martin DM-2B Sigma Guitar Owner Manual Warranty Case Candy

Blackwell, Missouri, 636**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$30

Case candy from a closed down music store. Comes as shown. Overall very good condition. Sold As Is. Payment is due immediately for Buy It Now items. Within 3 days for auctions

I DO NOT ACCEPT RETURNS AT ALL. I am NOT amazon. I am NOT an expert on anything. I provide pictures and as much detail as I know. It is the buyer??s responsibility to make sure that they know what they are buying. ASK QUESTIONS. Check sizes. Check part numbers. Make sure it??s what you are looking for. Because ... more
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1971 Martin D-35 Vintage Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar w /  Case

1971 Martin D-35 Vintage Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar w / Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3500

Up for sale, a 1971 Martin D-35 in excellent condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original molded hardshell case and fitted with a K&K Pure Mini pickup system. This Martin has received all the maintenance due its vintage via the team at Portland Fretworks, including a full refret with vintage spec fretwire, replacement pickguard, and reglued bracing. Tonewoods include East Indian rosewood back and sides, an X-braced Sitka spruce top, mahogany neck, and ebony fingerboard and ... more
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Vintage   Martin  Sigma DM-4   1980s Korea   w / case

Vintage Martin Sigma DM-4 1980's Korea w / case

Spring Hill, Florida, 346**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$450

Vintage Martin Sigma DM-4 1980's Korea w / case. This guitar sounds and plays great. Action is low. Great condition, no damage. Maybe a light scratch here or there. Nothing noticeable worth mentioning. Includes original case. Will ship FedEx ground fully insured with tracking shipping to the lower 48 states only. No Alaska Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam or PO boxes international shipping provided by eBay global
... more
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1971 Martin D-28 Dreadnought Vintage Acoustic Guitar w /  Case

1971 Martin D-28 Dreadnought Vintage Acoustic Guitar w / Case

Seattle, Washington, 981**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$4600

Up for sale, a 1971 Martin D-28 in excellent condition and in perfect working order, complete with a molded hardshell case. Freshly serviced, this Martin benefits from the maintenance due an instrument of this vintage, with a professional neck reset, new pickguard, carved bone nut and tall saddle, and a replacement ebony bridge (original included)
Tonewoods include East Indian rosewood back and sides and a Sitka spruce top, delivering a classic Martin dreadnought tonal profile. Offering ... more
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Martin D-28 Acoustic Guitar Used 1970

Martin D-28 Acoustic Guitar Used 1970

Las Vegas, Nevada, 891**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$3800

1970 D-28 MARTIN

OFFERED IS THIS STUNNING AND PRESTINE 1970 D-28MARTIN FROM THE GLODEN ERA OF GUITAR CRAFTMANSHIP
THESE CLASSIC GUITARS ARE RENOWNED FOR THEIR DISTINCTIVERICH TONE, EXCEPTIONAL PLAYABILITY AND LEGENDARY QUALITY. NOT ONLY IS THIS 1970MARTIN D-28 IN PRESTINE CONDITION BUT ALSOJUST HAD A FRESH NECK RESET WHEN IT WAS SERVICED (7 / 24 / 2024).
WHETHER YOU??RE A COLLECTOR OR A MUSICIANLOOKING FOR A TOP-TIER ACOUSTIC, THIS D-28 WILL NOT DISAPPOINT. IT??S POWERFUL ... more
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Sigma Guitars DM-5 Left-handed Acoustic Guitar 6 Strings C F. Martin Japan 1970s

Sigma Guitars DM-5 Left-handed Acoustic Guitar 6 Strings C F. Martin Japan 1970s

Saint Petersburg, Florida, 337**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$450

Left-handed Vintage Acoustic Guitar DM-5
No Strap or Case!
Guitar has a new 6 strings + set up and neck set up by Seminole Music & Sounds
Sounds very cool!
Dreadnought Mahogany sides and back of body
Has a few cosmetic issues:
- a few small dents on the top of the body, but they are not affected on it work and sound
- sides and back have a few scratches and wear
- Top of the body has water spots
- May have some other cosmetic issues
Made in Japan ... more
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Guild D35-NT Acoustic guitar with Martin hardshell case, vintage

Guild D35-NT Acoustic guitar with Martin hardshell case, vintage

Kingsport, Tennessee, 376**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1250

1983 Guild D 35
This ia a fantastic looking, playing and sounding guitar
She is a true beauty ! and doesn't look 41 years old
Has a bone nut and saddle
Comes with a new Martin hard case... more
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~ 1959 Martin 0-17 / 0-18 vintage soft  guitar case  (lid is not attached)

~ 1959 Martin 0-17 / 0-18 vintage soft guitar case (lid is not attached)

Loveland, Ohio, 451**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$295

Needs restoration: Lid is detached and needs new hinges.
Beautiful vintage case with plush red interior. Tested with 1959 Martin 0-18.
14 5 inches wide lower bout 10 25 upper bout. 40 inches long. 4 75 inches deep.
... more
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1965 martin d-28 good condition

1965 martin d-28 good condition

Waynesville, Ohio, 450**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$7999

1965 martin d-28 in good condition... more
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1953 Martin & Co. 0-18 6-String Acoustic Guitar, Vintage Original FOR PARTS

1953 Martin & Co. 0-18 6-String Acoustic Guitar, Vintage Original FOR PARTS

Owensboro, Kentucky, 423**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$5000

Body has multiple cracks, bridge is starting to pull up
Please refer to the pictures to view item condition.
If you have any questions regarding this item, please feel free to message us.
The "b-x" in the title is for our store reference only and does not pertain to the item.
Only what is shown in the pictures is what is included with the item.
Shipping address can NOT be changed after purchase.
Shipping to domestic USA only, excluding Hawaii and Alaska.
... more
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Martin D12-28 12-string vintage w / hsc 1984 - natural

Martin D12-28 12-string vintage w / hsc 1984 - natural

Lynn, Massachusetts, 019**, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

$1375

Plays and sounds great. There's a professionally glued crack at the center seam on the top. There's a Bridge Doctor installed. The action is currently low, even tuned to E standard. The saddle is set low. There was some binding repaired on the back. There are plenty of imperfections in the finish. The neck is pretty straight (Not compared to a 2025 Modulus, but for a 40-year-old 12-string ) with no buzzing or fret-out. Frets look good with minor wear. Non-original Martin case is in excellent ... more
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Find more Martin guitars for sale at vintageguitarsforsale.co

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how much is my Left-handed sigma martin DM-S4S sunburst guitar worth

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1973 Hagstrom Swede Bass

1973 Hagstrom Swede Bass The Hagstrom Swede bass, or model HB 903, was only built in small numbers: just 1479 basses shipped between 1971 and 1976. Unlike the current range of Hagstrom guitars, the 1950s-1980s Hagstroms were built in Sweden. This example comes from 1973 and is pretty typical: translucent cherry finish, mahogany body, mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard. It's a really nice bass, beautifully appointed with a very wide tonal range, and a great playing feel. It is relatively heavy though for a mahogany instrument, mostly due to its thick solid body. Very cool bass, and certainly one of the very best basses produced by Hagstrom.

1973 Shaftesbury 3400

1973 Shaftesbury 3400 This example of the Shaftesbury 3400 was produced by Japanese manufacturer Matsumoku who made some great quality guitars in the 1970s and 1980s. This is a slightly later example, and has some features not seen on earlier 3400s. Although nice guitars, these are not in the same league as the Gibson Les Paul it was emulating (no set neck, no carved maple top); but they are far better than many of the entry-level Les Paul copies available in the mid-1970s - for example the Shaftesbury 3400 has gold plated hardware, a solid body bound front and back, Maxon brand humbuckers and nice inlaid neck and headstock.

1971 Epiphone 1802T

1971 Epiphone 1802T The Epiphone 1802T was the early name given to the Epiphone ET-270 and derived from an existing Aria guitar, also the 1802T. This was the first of the 1970s Epiphone solid bodies made in Japan by Matsumoku.The model evolved somewhat over its short production run: the very earliest examples were very similar to the Aria, sharing the same body shape, hardware, and clear-coated neck with Fender-style headstock with decal logo. By the time it was designated the Epiphone ET-270 it had been upgraded with the classic Epiphone-style headstock, with nice inlaid logo, and Epiphone 'E' motifs on the truss rod cover and scratchplate. This example from 1971 is somewhere in between with the Epiphone-style headstock, but with silk-screened logo, and no 'E's.

1971 Shaftesbury 3400

1971 Shaftesbury 3400Shaftesbury was a brand distributed by Rose-Morris in the UK - generally imported guitars from Italy or Japan. This guitar, model 3400 was produced by Matsumoku in Japan, and was one of the earliest Les Paul copy guitars, debuting in the UK in 1969, although the same guitar was also sold as the Univox U1982 'Rhythm and Blues' by Merson in the USA as early as 1968. It was also available in different territories under different marques, most obviously the Aria 5522 (Japan), Jedson Jet 4444 (UK, Dallas Arbiter), with no doubt many more examples worldwide.

1981 Gibson Victory MVX

1981 Gibson Victory MV-XThe Gibson Victory MV-X, or Victory 'Multi-Voice' 10, was so-named because of the 10 distinct switch settings: although on first glance this guitar is very much a 'super-strat', with its three-pickup 5-way switch wiring configuration, the original advertising, sounds like... all of 'em underlines that this isn't just a Stratocaster copy, having the sounds of both Gibson humbuckers and Fender single coils available with a flick of a switch. The model was short-lived, with the first instruments shipping from Kalamazoo in Summer of 1981, and the last (excluding any stragglers) leaving Nashville by early 1982. This one was stamped on August 3rd 1981 in Kalamazoo.

1970 Rosetti Epiphone guitar catalogue

1970 Rosetti Epiphone guitar catalogScan of 1970 Epiphone guitar catalogue produced by Rosetti for the UK market. Undated but most likely from mid-late 1970, this was the first UK catalogue to show the new range of Japanese (Matsumoku) Epiphone guitars. Interestingly, these pages show the Epiphone solid bodies with a single-sided Fender-style headstock layout - a feature quickly replaced with a typical two-sided Epiphone headstock almost immediately. Epiphone electric guitars: 9520, 9525; bass guitars: 9521, 9526; acoustic guitars: 6730, 6830, 6834

A World of Guitars by Rosetti - 1971

1971 A World of Guitars by Rosetti catalogueScan of 1971 Rosetti catalogue (UK) featuring guitars from from numerous manufacturers worldwide: guitars by Epiphone, Hagstrom, Levin, Hoyer, Egmond, Eros, Moridaira, Kiso-Suzuki, Schaller, and Tatra.

1971 Selmer guitar catalogue

1971 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1971 Selmer guitar catalogue showing the range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Gibson, Yamaha, Selmer, Hofner and Suzuki. 1960s Selmer had always placed Hofner at the front end of their catalogues, no doubt these were the better sellers - but into the 1970s Hofner were slipping somewhat and only appear at the tail end of this publication, pride of place going to Gibson, and to a lesser extent Yamaha. In fact this is the last Selmer catalogue to include the many Hofner hollow bodies (Committee, President, Senator etc) that had defined the companies output for so many years - to be replaced in the 1972 catalogue by generic solid body 'copies' of Gibson and Fender models. A number of new Gibson models are included for the first time: the SG-100 and SG-200 six string guitars and the SB-300 and SB-400 basses.

1968 Selmer guitar catalogue

1968 Selmer guitar catalogueScan of 1968/1969 Selmer guitar catalogue (printed July 1968), showing the entire range of electric and acoustic guitars distributed by the company: guitars by Hofner, Gibson, Selmer and Giannini. Selmer were the exclusive United Kingdom distributors of Hofner and Gibson at the time, and this catalogue contains a total of 18 electric guitars, 7 bass guitars, 37 acoustics, and 2 Hawaiian guitars - all produced outside the UK and imported by Selmer, with UK prices included in guineas. This catalogue saw the (re-)introduction of the late sixties Gibson Les Paul Custom and Les Paul Standard (see page 69) and the short-lived Hofner Club 70. Other electric models include: HOFNER ELECTRICS: Committee, Verithin 66, Ambassador, President, Senator, Galaxie, HOFNER BASSES: Violin bass, Verithin bass, Senator bass, Professional bass GIBSON ELECTRICS: Barney Kessel, ES-330TD, ES-335TD, ES-345TD, ES-175D, ES-125CD, SG Standard, SG Junior, SG Special GIBSON BASSES: EB-0, EB-2, EB-3 - plus a LOT of acoustics branded Gibson, Hofner, Selmer and Giannini

1961 Hofner Colorama I

1961 Hofner Colorama IHofner Colorama was the name UK distributor Selmer gave to a series of solid and semi-solid guitars built by Hofner for distribution in the UK. The construction and specifications of the guitars varied over the period of production, but by 1961 it was a totally solid, double cutaway instrument, with a set neck, translucent cherry finish, six-in-a-row headstock, and Hofner Diamond logo pickups. Available as a single or dual pickup guitar, this sngle pickup version would have been sold in mainland Europe as the Hofner 161.

1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)

1971 Commodore N25 (Matsumoku)Commodore was a brand applied to a series of guitars produced in Japan at the well-respected Matsumoku plant from the late 1960s to the mid 1970s - and sold primarily (perhaps exclusively?) in the United Kingdom. The models bearing the Commodore name were all guitars available from different distributors with different branding. Although there may have been some minor changes in appointments (specifically headstock branding) most had the same basic bodies, hardware and construction. Equivalent models to the Commodore N25 (and this is by no means an exhaustive list) include the Aria 5102T, Conrad 5102T(?), Electra 2221, Lyle 5102T, Ventura V-1001, Univox Coily - and most famously the Epiphone 5102T / Epiphone EA-250.

1960 Hofner Colorama II

1960 Hofner Colorama IIThe Hofner Colorama was the name given by Selmer to a series of solid (and semi-solid) body Hofner guitars distributed in the United Kingdom between 1958 and 1965. The Colorama name actually applied to some quite different guitars over the period, but in 1960 it was a very light, semi-solid, set necked guitar with one (Colorama I) or two (Colorama II, as seen here) Toaster pickups. Although an entry-level guitar, it was very well-built, and a fine playing guitar; certainly a step up (at least in terms of craftsmanship) from many of the Colorama guitars that would follow, and a good deal of the guitars available in Britain circa 1960.

1971 Epiphone 1820 bass (ET-280)

1971 Epiphone 1820 (ET-280) bassBy the end of the 1960s, a decision had been made to move Epiphone guitar production from the USA (at the Kalamazoo plant where Gibson guitars were made), to Matsumoto in Japan, creating a line of guitars and basses significantly less expensive than the USA-built models (actually less than half the price). The Matsumoku factory had been producing guitars for export for some time, but the 1820 bass (alongside a number of guitar models and the 5120 electric acoustic bass) were the first Epiphone models to be made there. These new Epiphones were based on existing Matsumoku guitars, sharing body shapes, and hardware, but the Epiphone line was somewhat upgraded, with inlaid logos and a 2x2 peghead configuration. Over the course of the 70s, the Japanese output improved dramatically, and in many ways these early 70s models are a low point for the brand. Having said this, there are a lot worse guitars out there, and as well as being historically important, the 1820 bass can certainly provide the goods when required.

1981 Gibson Marauder

1981 Gibson MarauderProduction of Bill Lawrence's Gibson Marauder began in 1974, with production peaking in 1978. But by 1980 the model was officially discontinued, though very small numbers slipped out as late as spring 1981. Over 7000 examples shipped between 1974 and 1979, and although no totals are available for 1980 and 1981, it is unlikely production reached three figures in either of these years. These final Marauders were all assembled at the Gibson Nashville plant, and had some nice features not available through the later years of production, such as a rosewood fretboard, and in this case, an opaque 'Devil Red' finish. It's a great looking and fine playing guitar!

1971 'Pick Epiphone' Catalog

1971 Pick Epiphone catalogWhen Epiphone production moved from Kalamazoo to the Matsumoku plant in Japan, a whole new range of electric, flattop and classic acoustic guitars was launched. Between late 1970 and 1972 the new models were launched and refined. This 'folder' catalog contains various inserts released over these years detailing four electric six-strings (ET-270, ET-275, ET-278, and thinline EA-250), three bass guitars (ET-280, ET-285, and thinline EA-260), three folk/steel acoustics, four jumbo flattop acoustics, two 12-string jumbos, four classic acoustics, and a banjo.

1981 'Gibson Specials' Pre-Owners Manual

1981 Gibson Specials Pre-Owners Manual'Gibson Specials' was part of the June 1981 pre-owners manual series, but unlike the other folders contained a mish-mash of different guitars: limited editions, test marketing and close outs. "You will find the unusual, the brand-new, and the bargain within this folder". End of line 70s guitars like the Marauder, S-1, and L-6S Custom mixed in with brand new models the The V, The Explorer and the Flying V Bass.
It was the largest folder in the series, with 24 inserts, (19 guitars and 5 basses): Guitars: 335-S Standard, Melody Maker Double, Marauder, L-6S Custom, S-1, RD Artist, Firebird, Firebird II, Flying V, Flying V-II, The V, Explorer, Explorer II, The Explorer, The "SG" Standard, Les Paul Artist, Les Paul Artisan, ES-335 Heritage, ES-175/CC Basses: Grabber, G-3, L-9S, RD Artist Bass, Flying V Bass

1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass

1970s Shaftesbury 3263 bass Rose-Morris were selling Shaftesbury-branded Rickenbacker copy instruments from the late 1960s right through the 1970s. The 3263 bass was one of the first models, (alongside the 3261 six string and 3262 twelve string) available from late 1968 until about 1974. The earliest incarnation was a set neck bass, produced very briefly in Japan. But production quickly moved to Italy. This bolt-on neck example was built by Eko, in Recanati, using the same hardware and pickups as fitted to Eko, and Vox basses built around the same time. It's certainly a fine looking bass, and not a bad player either.

1961 Hohner Zambesi

1961 Hohner Zambesi This very early, and pretty rare British-built guitar is branded Hohner London. Hohner were, of course, a German company, better known for their harmonicas and accordions, but they were keenly expanding into guitars at the birth of the 1960s. This model, along with the Hohner Amazon and (particularly) the Hohner Holborn, bear some similarity with Vox guitars of the same period; furniture manufacturer Stuart Darkins constructed bodies and necks for both brands, with Fenton Weill assembling them using their hardware and pickups. These guitars do have some hardware peculiarities, and they are not the most adjustable of instruments, but they actually play very nicely, being solidly built out of some very nice woods. Check out the video on this page.

1963 Vox Super Ace

1963 Vox Super Ace The Vox Super Ace was a mid-priced British solid body electric guitar, produced by JMI at their factory in Dartford, Kent. It was broadly modelled on the Fender Stratocaster, and a sibling model to the dual-pickup Vox Ace. Both the Ace, and Super Ace (along with several other models), were redesigned in 1963 with a new body shape, headstock style, and pickup layout - only increasing the resemblance to the aforementioned Fender. The Super Ace had a 1963 price tag of £47 5S. It's a pretty nice playing guitar with some lovely sounds - check out the videos on this page, and in the Vintage Guitar and Bass supporting members area

1966 Vox New Escort

1966 Vox New Escort The Vox New Escort was Vox's version of the Fender Telecaster, at a time when American guitars were out of reach for most British musicians. It was made by JMI in England, for the British market, and unlike the majority of other models, didn't have an Italian-made equivalent. But the New Escort wasn't a slavish Fender copy, adding Vox's stylish teardrop headstock to the tele-style body, with a stop tailpiece and two Vox V2 single coil pickups. And it's a pretty substantial, and nice playing guitar, with a very comfortable neck. Check out the images, specifications, and watch a video of it in action. There is also extra content in the vintageguitarandbass supporting members area.

1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin' Care

1969 Fender catalog, Fender Lovin Care Catalog scan. The 1969 Fender Lovin' Care catalog consisted of 48 pages of electric guitars, basses, amplifiers, steel guitars, acoustic guitars, banjos and keyboards. Like the previous catalog, this featured the company's guitars in a variety of interesting settings around California, from the Whiskey-A-Go-Go, to the Hollywood Bowl. Several instruments were making their first appearance amongst it's pages: the Telecaster bass, Montego and LTD jazz guitars, and the Redondo acoustic. It was the final catalog appearance, however, of the Electric XII, Bass V, Duo-Sonic, Coronado I and Coronado Bass I.

1973 Eko Ranger Folk

1973 Eko Ranger Folk The Eko Ranger series of guitars was incredibly popular in the second half of the 1960s and through the 1970s, selling in very large numbers. The Ranger Folk was 1 1/4" smaller, and 1" shallower than the Ranger VI and XII - and with a narrower waist. Not a bad guitar; a little quiet, but pretty playable. These were great value in 1973, and because they sold so many, they are easy to find and excellent value today.

1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitar

1966 Vox Symphonic bass guitar The Symphonic bass was built in the UK, by Vox parent company JMI. It was the Vox equivalent to the Fender Precision bass, and was one of the most expensive Vox guitars produced. It was actually a great playing bass, rather similar to the Precision in feel and sound, but was probably just too expensive compared to an actual Fender and consequently sold poorly. When Vox hit financial problems in 1968, unsold guitars and basses were passed on to Dallas Arbiter, who briefly sold the excess Symphonic bass stock as model 4537. This bass, although with a neck date of February 1966, was most likely one of the unsold Vox guitars sold on by Dallas Arbiter. Check out the bass, and the two video demos through 1960s Ampeg and WEM amplifiers.

1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog

1968 Shaftesbury catalogThe 1968 Shaftesbury 'Electric Guitars' catalog was just four pages long, and contained four guitar models: the six string Barney Kessel-style 3264; and three Rickenbacker-styled semi-acoustic models: the six-string 3261, the twelve string 3262 and the 3263 bass. Shaftesbury was the house-brand of major UK distributor Rose-Morris, and seems to have been launched as a response to the company's loss of it's distribution deal with Rickenbacker. The guitars were mid-priced, and built in (initially) Japan, and later Italy, by Eko

1970 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns Celebrated Classics' catalog

1970 Rose_Morris catalog1970 Rose-Morris catalog, dated April 1970. It featured 6 electric guitars, 32 acoustic guitars, 3 basses and 1 steel guitar. It contains the following instruments, over 20 pages: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3262, 3264, 3265, 3400; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Colorado, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12; Aria 1674, 1675, 1676, 1679, 1680, 1695, 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk; Rose-Morris 15-11, Kansas, Georgian, Florida; Suzuki 1663, 1664, 1665, 3054, 3055, 3060; Tatay 1713, 1714, 1715; Peerless 3052; Steel guitar: Aria 3425

1971 Rose-Morris 'Exciting Electrics Wonderful Westerns' catalog

1971 Rose_Morris catalogThe sixteen-page 1971 Rose-Morris catalog featured electric guitars by Rose-Morris' own brand, Shaftesbury, and budget brand Top Twenty; aswell as acoustics by Eko, Aria, and for the first time Ovation. The catalog contains the following instruments: Electric guitars: Shaftesbury 3261, 3264, 3265, 3400, 3402; Top Twenty 1970; Bass: Shaftesbury 3263, 3266; Top Twenty 1971; Acoustic guitars: Ovation: Balladeer, 12 String, Glen Campbell, Glen Campbell 12 string; Eko Rio Bravo, Rio Bravo 12, Ranger, Ranger Folk, Ranger 12, Colorado, Ranchero, Ranchero 12, Studio 'L'; Rose-Morris Florida; Aria 'John Pearse' Jumbo, 'John Pearse' Folk

1972 Fender Precision bass

1972 Fender PrecisionA detailed look at an early 1970s Fender Precision bass guitar in custom black finish, with rosewood fretboard. 1972 list price, $307.50. The Fender Precision had been shipping since at least very early 1952 - with just one re-design circa 1957. This example, then, shows a model already two decades old, but barely changed since the '57 revamp. Fender got it right first time around, and although there are numerous minor cosmetic differences, the essence of this bass is effectively the same as it was in '52: a simple, single pickup instrument with a GREAT sound. Check out the demo video through an old Ampeg B15. It's no wonder this is the bass that everybody wants!

1967 Vox Stroller

1967 Vox StrollerThe Vox Stroller was the brand's entry level electric solid body guitar, fitted with just one pickup and a fixed tailpiece. Although aimed at student guitarists, it wasn't a terrible instrument, but did lack somewhat in adjustability, having no accessible truss rod and only a floating rosewood bridge. But this example is actually quite an improvement on earlier versions, with a standard 1/4" jack and a solid mahogany body. 1967 price £18 2s. JMI ceased UK guitar production in late '67, and combined with decreasing demand for the Stroller, this surely must be one of the last examples shipped.

1963 Vox Clubman Bass (left handed)

1963 Vox Clubman Bass left handedA nice example of the Vox Clubman II bass, built by JMI in Dartford, Kent in 1963. This is a lightweight bass, short (30") scale and very easy to play. It is an early example, and as such has a thin black scratchplate and side mounted, coaxial output jack. JMI offered left handed examples of their solid body Vox guitars and basses at 10% premium. Production numbers are unclear, but left-handed examples rarely come up for sale

1977 Gibson ES Artist 'prototype'

1977 Gibson ES Artist prototypeNot to be confused with the Gibson ES Artist launched by Gibson in 1979; this ES Artist was an early model designed by the Gibson research and development team in Kalamazoo in 1977, the instruments themselves constructed by Gibson artist Chuck Burge. It was planned for launch as a high end semi acoustic with 335-style construction (central maple block) and innovative circuitry - but was pulled at the last minute, being deemed too expensive. Apparently, several examples were produced with varying specifications, though exactly how many actually left the Kalamazoo plant is unclear. Certainly two guitars were sold to LaVonne Music by Gibson in around 1980. Read more about the development of this guitar, with details from Chuck Burge and the story of it's sale to LaVonne music