Martin D-28 Sunburst 1974 – Vintage Shade Top Acoustic, Original Case

No sales tax for customers outside California.

The Martin D-28 Sunburst Shade Top (1974) is a stunning example of one of Martin’s most iconic dreadnoughts, finished in a rare sunburst style that adds vintage character and collector appeal. Built during the golden age of 1970s Martin production, this guitar offers the unmistakable powerful projection, rich bass, and sparkling highs that have made the D-28 a cornerstone for generations of players.

This example shows some use but not abuse.  There is wear through the finish on the back of the neck, body checking, dings here and there - signs that the previous owner played and enjoyed the guitar, but that it was cared for.  The frets may have been replaced at some point - they just look a full for a guitar that was played enough to show the wear this guitar does on the back of the neck.  We had the neck re-set and a new saddle made, which made this one of the best playing Martin guitars in the shop.  There was an under-bridge pickup added by a previous owner, including an output jack hole on the lower bout.

Crafted with a spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, the 1974 D-28 delivers balanced tone and incredible sustain. Its rosewood fingerboard and bridge enhance warmth and clarity, while the sunburst finish sets it apart from the more common natural-top examples of the era. With decades of aging, this guitar has developed a resonant voice that only vintage Martins can provide, making it equally appealing for stage, studio, or serious collection.

This example comes with its original case, adding to its authenticity and value. Whether you’re a flatpicker chasing that classic Martin boom or a songwriter seeking a responsive companion, the D-28 Shade Top offers both tonal excellence and timeless aesthetics.

At Mahar’s Vintage Guitars, every instrument is fully inspected, professionally set up, and photographed in detail so you can buy with confidence.

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• Color: Sunburst / Shade Top
• Weight: 4lbs 13oz
• Top: Sitka Spruce
• Body: Rosewood
• Neck: Magogany
• Neck Profile:
• Fretboard: Ebony 
• Inlays: Mother of Pearl Dot
• Frets: Original
• Fret Count: 20
• Nut: Non Original
• Nut width: 1-11/16"
• Scale: 25.4" 
• Radius: 16"
• Neck thickness at 1st Fret: .855"
• Neck thickness at 9th Fret: .99"
• Action 1st String at 12th Fret: 3/32"
• Action 6th String at 12th Fret: 3/32"
• Overall length: 40 3/8"
  
• Body length: 20"
  
• Lower bout: 15 3/4"
  
• Waist: 10 7/8"
  
• Upper bout: 11 9/16"
  
• Body depth/thickness: 4 7/8"
  
• String gauge: .012-.053"
  
• Pickguard: Original
  
• Bridge: Original
• Tuners: Schaller
• Electronics?: Yes
• Electronics Original? No
  
• Case: OHSC
• Notes: 

Shipping policy:

There are multiple shipping cost options for purchases made on our site.  Select Ground, 3 Day, 2 Day, or Next Day Air Saver.  For Reverb purchases, there is one cost option for these Eastern states and shipment will be made by UPS three-day-air.  Shipments will require signature on delivery, no exceptions.  If there is damage, the buyer must retain all packing materials intact and picture them immediately and send them to sales@maharsvintageguitars.com.  Less than 1% of our shipments are damaged in transit, and we are committed to making sure your item arrives safely, but we are taking these additional measures to make sure you are happy with your purchase.