For nearly two centuries, C.F. Martin & Co. has been crafting acoustic guitars that have helped shape the soundscape of American music. From folk trailblazers to modern legends, Martin’s instruments have been at the heart of countless iconic performances. Now, in a fitting tribute to its longtime leader, the company is marking Chris Martin IV’s 70th birthday with two exclusive, vintage-inspired guitars: the 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th and the D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th.
1955 wasn’t just the year Chris Martin IV was born—it was also a turning point for American music. The folk boom was gaining momentum, and acoustic guitars like Martin’s Dreadnoughts and 000 models became essential tools for a new generation of artists.
A statement from the company discloses that the two new limited-edition guitars “pay tribute to that defining moment, blending vintage inspiration with modern craftsmanship.” Each model is based on an original 1955 Martin recently acquired at auction: the 000-18, known for its honest wear and warm tone, and the D-18, celebrated as part of a collection that supported youth music education and charities.
One of the standout features of these commemorative models is their use of reclaimed spruce tops—a first for Martin. A statement from the company explains that the wood comes from “old-growth trees salvaged around Prince of Wales Island in Alaska, including wind-felled trees, dismantled log bridges, and massive logs once used in historic barge ramps and floating logging platforms.” This sustainable approach not only honors history but also ensures a unique character for each instrument.
To enhance their vintage appeal, the spruce tops are printed to reflect the look of the original 1955 guitars while offering the tonal balance and warmth players expect from Martin.
The 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th features a gloss 000 body with mahogany back and sides, non-scalloped Sitka spruce X-bracing, and a tone that is ideal for fingerstyle players and singer-songwriters. The D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th offers the bold sound of a gloss Dreadnought, with rear-shifted non-scalloped X-bracing for impressive projection and clarity. Both models are priced at $4,699.
Vintage-style details complete the package: faux tortoise binding, an Old Style 18 rosette, FSC®-certified rosewood fingerboards with 1955-style mother-of-pearl inlays, satin select hardwood necks with Golden Era Modified Low Oval profiles, and Kluson® Waffleback® nickel tuners.
Each model is limited to just 70 guitars, symbolizing Chris Martin IV’s 70th year. A statement from the company highlights that these guitars “celebrate Chris’ legacy and the timeless Martin tradition of quality, innovation, and respect for the past.” Each instrument comes with a hardshell case and an embossed paper label hand-signed by Chris Martin IV.
The 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th and D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th are now available online and through select Martin dealers. More information can be found at martinguitar.com.
