Vintage Martin 2-17 Flat Top - USA 1928

During the Great Depression, Martin Guitar Company managed to endure the tough economic times by selling a range of musical instruments, including ukuleles and this particular guitar model - the Martin 2-17. This model proved to be a significant success, comprising approximately 28% of Martin's guitar sales in the year 1926. Notably, in 1922, it became the first Martin guitar exclusively designed with bracing for steel strings, marking a significant innovation in their product line. Prior to this, and until 1928, most of Martin's flat-top guitars were primarily braced for gut strings, with the option to accommodate steel strings. The 2-17 model stood out as an exception, being solely braced for steel strings from the beginning.

The 2-17 model is distinguished by its slightly smaller size compared to the 0-size guitars, and featuring an all-mahogany body. It originally came equipped with a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, in contrast to the ebony used on the 18-series models of the same period. Unlike the later 17-style instruments, these early versions boasted elegant rosewood binding along the edges, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the simple yet stylish rosettes added a touch of class to their overall design.

This stunning pre-war Martin is in excellent condition for a nearly 100-year-old instrument. Structurally the guitar is sound and plays very nicely. There is one 4cm bump on the back near the heal where the side has come away from the binding (shown in photos). The small blemish is purely cosmetic and doesn't detract from the guitars structure, sound or playability. There is the slightest amount of belly bulge, extremely common on these vintage guitars, and no repair required whatsoever. the tuners hold tune well and the frets show some wear with plenty of life left.

Own a wonderful piece of Martin history with this glorious little parlour guitar in excellent condition. A rare beauty that is a wonderful instrument to strum away on, or would serve as a nice vintage ornament for the home.

Comes in non-original, gold lined, fitted HSC.

Features:

Action at 1st Fret: 0.75mm

Action at 12th Fret: 3.25mm

Nut Width: 45.39mm

Width at 12th Fret: 57.03mm

Weight: 1.17kg / 2.61lb

Top wood: Solid Mahogany

Back & sides wood: Solid Mahogany

Bracing type: Scalloped X

Bridge: Rosewood

Fretboard: Rosewood

Neck wood: Mahogany

Neck shape: Mild-Medium C/Softest V

Board radius: Flat

Truss rod: Non-Adjustable Ebony Rod

Neck relief: Straight

Scale length: 24 1/4"

Body width: 12 1/4"

Body depth: 4"