We have always had a great fondness for the Martin 0-18. Hearing this one, I am reminded how much we enjoy these guitars (and of why TME's founder successfully lobbied Collings to bring the model back to life, before Martin eventually followed suit). Beautifully balanced, clear, characterful, and in the case of this 69-year-old example, great sounding: dry, warm, with an easy, lively resonance under a light or medium attack. If you have been sleeping on small-bodied vintage acoustics, here is a friendly wake-up call.

This guitar comes to us from a local, professional musician whose family has owned the instrument since the 1960s. There are several repaired top, side cracks. We believe the finish to be original, though it looks to have been buffed, and shows wear to the top and back, especially at the treble side of the soundhole. With its freshly reset neck, the guitar sets up well and plays very comfortably. Collectors seeking pristine boxes may look elsewhere, but for players, this one's a gem.

Priced with hardshell case.

• Mahogany back & sides
• Red spruce top
  
• Rosewood fingerboard and bridge
• Through saddle 
• 1 11/16" nut width
• 24.9" scale length
• 2 1/4" string spacing
• Hard case
• Serial number 134021