Martin / 1996 200th Anniversary D-45 Deluxe Commemorative
Staff Comment: Inoue

“A masterpiece limited to just 91 pieces worldwide, celebrating the 200th anniversary of founder C.F. Martin’s birth”
In 1996, to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Martin’s founder, Christian Frederick Martin, the “D-45 Deluxe Commemorative”—the ultimate anniversary model produced in a strictly limited run of just 91 pieces worldwide—has arrived in stock.
Based on the D-45—the pinnacle of acoustic guitars—this instrument brings together Martin’s finest craftsmanship and the highest-quality materials.
The body top features carefully selected premium-grade Sitka spruce, while the sides and back are lavishly crafted from the finest Brazilian rosewood (hacalanda), which is currently extremely difficult to source.
What makes this instrument even more special are its breathtakingly luxurious and magnificent decorations.
From the vertical Abalone logo shining on the headstock to the area around the headstock, the sides of the fingerboard, the neck heel, the rosette, and even the body trim, vivid Abalone inlays have been used generously throughout.
The fingerboard features classic snowflake inlays, and the signature of founder C.F. Martin I is discreetly yet proudly inlaid at the end of the fingerboard.
It stands out among the many custom models with its overwhelming beauty and elegance.
Structurally, it features forward-shifted scalloped X-bracing reminiscent of the golden age.
Combined with this specification, the sense of scale created by the Dreadnought body and the Brazilian rosewood is truly in a league of its own.
It delivers deep, resonant bass that shakes you to your core, along with the crystal-clear, endlessly expansive mid-to-high tones characteristic of Brazilian rosewood. Even with a
light strum, overwhelming harmonics fill the space, and you can savor the supreme resonance as the entire guitar pulsates like a living creature, making the air vibrate.
Above all, its miraculous condition is truly remarkable.
As a single-owner instrument, it has been perfectly preserved in its fully original state with no parts ever replaced. It remains in near-deadstock condition—with virtually no visible scratches—showing absolutely no signs of the approximately 30 years that have passed since its manufacture.
It boasts overwhelming historical value as one of only 91 200th Anniversary models made worldwide, an artistic presence woven from the finest Brazilian rosewood and luxurious inlays, and is in perfect condition as a collector’s item.
Please experience this ultimate D-45—a true embodiment of the concept of “ichi-go ichi-e” (a once-in-a-lifetime encounter)—with your own hands, as you may never come across another like it.
[Specifications/Included Case]
TOP: Sitka Spruce
SIDE/BACK: Brazilian Rosewood
NECK: Mahogany
FINGERBOARD: Ebony
BRIDGE: Ebony
SCALE: 645mm
NUT WIDTH: 44mm
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case
[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
- Fully original, single-owner instrument. There are no cracks or crack repairs; it is in beautiful condition with only a slight speck of a scratch on the bridge side and a few scuffs visible only when held up to the light—even the pickguard is virtually scratch-free.
- An endpin is included.
[Playing Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 3.3mm on the 6th string side, 2.8mm on the 1st string side -
Saddle height: approx. 3.5mm–4.0mm
*Consignment Item
[Warranty Information]
Since this is a consignment item, it does not come with our store’s warranty.
Of course, after purchase, we are happy to discuss adjustments, repairs, etc. (for a fee) upon request.
Please note that this item is not eligible for our online trial service. (No returns accepted.)