Martin & Co 1947 0-21 Flat Top Acoustic Guitar

This is a beautiful 0-sized C.F. Martin guitar from 1947. Serial Number 98597.

This 0-21 dates to very early 1947, when the 12-fret steel string Martin was considered almost obsolete design. The Style 21 were the last guitars of this type offered, other Martins having adopted the 14 fret "Orchestra Model' pattern in the early 1930s. The 0-21 was only sold in small numbers after 1931 making it a relatively rare model despite its midline status; when this one was made it was about to become extinct. Only 48 shipped out in 1947, and '48 saw the end of the model's production leaving only the 00-21 to carry the 12-fret design on through the 1950s.

It's nicely built with Brazilian rosewood back & sides, a 12-fret neck join, slotted headstock, and a traditionally wide 46mm nut. Scale length is 24 3/4 inches. This Martin shows some general wear and repair, but on the whole remains in decent shape for its age, with a few notable repairs. It projects very well for its size and has a really balanced tone. 

This guitar was assessed and set up before it made it's way onto our wall. Part of the fingerboard was reglued and it had some loose frets tapped back into place. The machine heads are non original. It has likely been resprayed with a poly finish. It's unclear as to whether it's had a neck reset.

Comes with non-original Cheney England Hard case.