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Excellent vintage Martin condition considering age and expertly done repairsCRAIG'S POV What a thrill to have this exceptional 1953 Martin D-28 in the shop!The fact that this is one of only 675 D-28s produced in 1953, combined with its rare red spruce top — a wood choice that harkens back to Martin's pre-war golden era, makes it an especially desirable example. It delivers that legendary Martin D-28 sound – powerful, rich, and incredibly dynamic, the kind of mature tone that only 70 years of aging can produce.This was part of a limited run where Martin used this premium Adirondack red spruce instead of their standard Sitka, making this instrument particularly noteworthy for collectors and players alike.The quarter-sawn Brazilian rosewood back and sides are, as you'd expect from a 1953 Martin, absolutely beautiful. Brazilian rosewood is renowned for its complex overtones and incredible resonance, and this guitar exemplifies why these vintage Martins are so highly prized.Sonically, this D-28 is everything you'd hope for from a golden-era Martin. The Adirondack spruce top provides enormous headroom, allowing you to dig in hard without any loss of clarity. Its expansive bass response is perfectly balanced with crystalline highs, creating beautiful tonal colors that compare favorably with its pre-war brethren. The more you play it, the more you discover the subtle nuances and rich harmonic complexity that only a well-maintained vintage Martin can deliver.Over its lifetime, this D-28 has been thoughtfully maintained with several expertly done repairs, some likely performed at Martin's repair department. These include a replaced bridge with an oversized footprint, a rosewood bridge plate, careful crack repairs, and re-glued braces and lacquer overspray. The guitar also features a replaced ebony fingerboard and an endpin jack installation, all done with careful consideration to maintain the instrument's integrity.What's especially impressive is its recent restoration by renowned luthier Ken Fallon. Ken's expertise with vintage instruments is evident in every aspect of the work performed. His meticulous attention to detail included a precise neck reset, installation of new frets, and crafting of a new bone nut and saddle – all crucial elements that ensure this vintage masterpiece plays as wonderfully as it sounds. The guitar is now in excellent playing condition while maintaining its vintage character and charm.Thanks to Ken's expert work, this instrument is now ready for its next chapter, perfectly set up and structurally sound. Whether you're a collector or a player seeking that elusive vintage Martin magic, this beautifully restored '53 D-28 represents a remarkable opportunity to own a piece of guitar-making history.YEAR 1953 SERIAL NUMBER 131130 TOP Adirondack (red) spruce BACK & SIDES Brazilian rosewood NECK mahogany FINGERBOARD ebony BRIDGE replaced oversized ebony BRIDGE PLATE replaced oversized rosewood (likely Martin factory) BINDING ivoroid (some lacquer checking) NUT & SADDLE bone TUNERS original sealed Kluson "waffle-back" BRACING non-scalloped CONSTRUCTION hide glue FINISH gloss nitrocellulose lacquer (oversprayed) NECK CARVE full soft V NUT WIDTH 1 11/16" STRING SPACING 2 1/8" SCALE LENGTH 25.4" TRUSS ROD non-adjustable INLAYS MOP dots HEADSTOCK C.F. Martin decal CASE later Martin molded

The Martin D-28 stands as a legendary symbol in the realm of acoustic guitars, celebrated for its unparalleled craftsmanship and unmistakable tone. This model represents a pinnacle in Martin Guitar's esteemed lineup, embodying a legacy of over a century of instrument-making expertise. At its core, the D-28 boasts a classic dreadnought body shape, which contributes to its robust projection and resonant sound profile. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the D-28 features a solid Sitka spruce top, renowned for its responsiveness and clarity, allowing every note to ring with clarity and precision. Complementing the top are solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, renowned for their warmth, depth, and nuanced tonal characteristics. This combination creates a sonic landscape that is both powerful and balanced, making the D-28 equally adept at accommodating intricate fingerstyle passages and vigorous strumming patterns. Beyond its acoustic prowess, the D-28 is revered for its exceptional playability and enduring design. Its comfortable neck profile and smooth fretwork provide players with a seamless playing experience, whether in the studio, on stage, or during late-night jam sessions. The guitar's timeless aesthetic, characterized by elegant appointments and meticulous detailing, further underscores its status as a true icon in the world of acoustic instruments. Since its introduction, the Martin D-28 has remained a steadfast companion to generations of musicians across genres and styles. From folk legends to contemporary virtuosos, its versatile sound and unwavering reliability have made it a staple in recording studios, concert halls, and living rooms worldwide. With each strum, the D-28 continues to inspire creativity, evoke emotion, and stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of Martin Guitar craftsmanship.