Felixstowe, United Kingdom
About this listing
Christian Frederick Martin emigrated from Germany to the United States in the 19th century, initially settling in New York before relocating to Pennsylvania, where he established the Martin Guitar Company. Today, Martin remains one of the most revered guitar manufacturers in the world, renowned for its uncompromising craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring musical legacy.This exceptionally rare and highly collectible instrument was manufactured in Pennsylvania and, according to C.F. Martin identification records, can be confidently dated to the period between 1868 and 1870.The guitar displays many of the elegant appointments associated with Martin's finest work of the era. Features include a finely grained solid Adirondack spruce top, rosewood sides, and an ebonized maple neck with the distinctive "ice-cream cone" heel. The slotted ebonized maple headstock retains its original three-on-a-strip open-back brass tuners with rear-facing ivory buttons. An ebony fingerboard carries 18 original thin frets, with the neck joining the body at the twelfth fret. The guitar is fitted with its original-style bone saddle mounted on a classic pyramid bridge.Surrounding the soundhole are delicate concentric rings of inlaid rosewood. The back is crafted from an especially select and highly figured piece of rosewood, beautifully accented by a contrasting centre strip of light wood inlay. A noteworthy feature of Martin guitars from this period is found internally, where a thin spruce lamination was applied over the Brazilian rosewood back, a sophisticated construction detail believed to enhance tonal brightness and projection.In 2017, the guitar underwent a sympathetic restoration in the UK by master luthier David Yelverton. The work was carried out using period-correct materials and techniques, preserving both originality and integrity. The instrument was carefully cleaned and polished, while a small hairline fissure in the spruce top below the bridge was professionally hydrated and repaired. Importantly, the neck has never required adjustment. The original coffin case accompanies the guitar.This nylon-strung instrument remains in exceptional condition considering its remarkable age of approximately 158 years. Designed for intimate parlour performance rather than concert-hall projection, it excels as an accompaniment instrument for voice or other instruments. It offers an effortless playing experience and produces a beautifully balanced, sweet, and melodious tone across all registers.Please review the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. Additional photographs of specific details or areas of interest are available upon request.A fascinating historical footnote concerns the celebrated American author Mark Twain, who was an enthusiastic guitarist and singer. Shortly after the outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861, Twain owned and played a Martin Style 2½-17 guitar. That instrument survives today in the Smithsonian Institution, a lasting testament to Martin's extraordinary craftsmanship and the durability of its materials and construction. Purchased by Twain for just $10, it is now regarded as one of the most historically significant guitars in existence.This 1868 Martin Style 2½-17 represents an outstanding opportunity for the discerning collector, investor, or connoisseur of early American musical instruments. Combining rarity, historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and remarkable preservation, it stands among the finest surviving examples of its type. Offered at a fraction of the value attributed to Twain's famous instrument, it remains an increasingly scarce and highly desirable asset whose long-term appreciation has consistently attracted serious collectors worldwide.Delivery Conditions: This guitar will be carefully packed before being despatched using the best couriers and shall be fully insured by a separate dedicated transit insurance policy for the purchase amount. Please contact us for specific courier / insurance rates to your destination. No returns.CCG - T&C's apply at all times - See Shop policies
Price£5,995
Free Shipping
Free Shipping
from Felixstowe, United Kingdom
