Martin D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th Anniversary

Martin D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th – Limited Edition in honor of Chris Martin IV's 70th birthday

In celebration of Chris Martin IV’s 70th anniversary, Martin proudly presents the D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th – an exclusive limited edition model inspired by an original 1955 Martin D-18 recently acquired at auction. This historic instrument (serial number 144636) was part of the legendary Skip Maggiora collection and bears visible playwear that underscores its character and rich history.

1955 was not only a landmark year for the Martin family, but also marked the beginning of the folk revolution that changed American music forever and ushered Martin Guitars into a new era.

The D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th captures the essence of a true mid-century Martin. Its lustrous dreadnought body, crafted with mahogany back and sides, delivers a powerful and projecting tone. The top is crafted from reclaimed spruce, sourced from sustainably salvaged Alaskan trees—including downed trees, dismantled bridges, and timber from historic logging operations. For the first time in history, Martin is using this unique, sustainably sourced spruce.

The top is printed to replicate the authentic worn look of the original 1955 model. This contributes to a clear, balanced tone and gives the instrument additional historical significance. Combined with the rear-shifted non-scalloped Sitka spruce X-bracing, the guitar delivers an accurate, focused sound with sparkling highs and a responsive playing experience.