Martin D-28 Authentic 1937 Aged VTS (Madagascar Rosewood)

The Martin D-28 Authentic 1937 Aged VTS represents the absolute pinnacle of Martin’s Custom Shop craftsmanship. A no-compromise recreation of one of the most legendary flat-top acoustics ever built. Designed to capture the sound, feel, and spirit of a true pre-war original, this guitar delivers an experience that is as close to owning a genuine 1937 D-28 as it gets.

This particular example is especially desirable, as it is one of the rare, discontinued Madagascar Rosewood models. Madagascar rosewood is widely regarded as being closer in tone and appearance to vintage Brazilian rosewood than the newer Guatemalan rosewood currently used by Martin, making these earlier builds significantly more sought after by collectors and professional players alike.

Tone & Construction

Built using Martin’s Authentic Series construction methods, this guitar features historically accurate bracing, hide-glue assembly, and period-correct dimensions throughout. The result is a dreadnought with immense power, clarity, and depth, huge piano-like bass, rich harmonic complexity, and a clear, authoritative top end that cuts effortlessly in any setting.

The Vintage Tone System (VTS) thermally ages the spruce top, giving it the responsiveness, warmth, and openness of a well-played vintage instrument straight out of the case. Notes bloom quickly with exceptional headroom, making this guitar equally inspiring for flatpicking, strumming, and fingerstyle.

Aged Finish & Condition

The Aged VTS finish provides subtle, tasteful cosmetic aging performed by Martin’s Custom Shop to replicate decades of natural wear. Light checking and patina enhance the vintage aesthetic without crossing into heavy relic territory. Importantly, the guitar remains in the same condition it left the Custom Shop, offering the look and feel of a vintage instrument with the structural integrity and reliability of a modern build.

Highlights

• Authentic 1937 D-28 recreation from Martin’s Custom Shop

• Discontinued Madagascar Rosewood back and sides

• Vintage Tone System (VTS) aged spruce top

• Aged finish for a true pre-war look and feel

• Exceptional volume, balance, and responsiveness

• Highly collectible and increasingly rare