A 1973 Martin D-28. We don't get these in often, and when we do they don't sit long. The D-28 is the most consequential dreadnought Martin has ever made — the guitar that defined the sound of American folk, country, and bluegrass for nine decades. A 1973 was built during Martin's transition era: Brazilian rosewood was just out, Indian rosewood was in, the tooling was still the old hands-on Nazareth process.

This one has the warmth and bloom you only get from 50+ years of vibration loosening the wood. The top has aged into a deep amber. The back has the kind of figuring you can't manufacture.

Why we like it at Bros: Frank picked this up on a road trip — exactly the kind of find that built our store. Comes in its original hardshell case. Setup is dialed. Plays beautifully. If you've been waiting for a vintage Martin that isn't a museum piece — this is the one to come in and try.

Specs: 1973 Martin D-28, Sitka spruce top, Indian rosewood back & sides, original hardshell case included. Inspected and set up by us before listing.

Visit us at 316 East 84th Street, NYC. Call 646-559-8771 to reserve a play time on this one.