If you’re after a vintage Martin that captures the presence, warmth, and authority of the legendary pre-war dreadnoughts, this 1981 Martin HD-28 is a standout from one of Martin’s most important early “heritage revival” eras. With scalloped bracing, herringbone trim, and classic tonewoods, this guitar embodies everything players love about Martin’s traditional build philosophy.
 
Martin introduced the HD-28 in 1976, reviving several iconic pre-war features that had disappeared from standard models after World War II. These early HD-28s are particularly cherished because they represent Martin’s first modern attempt to bring back:
Scalloped X-bracing (a key ingredient in pre-war tone)
Herringbone top trim
Zig-zag back strip
Aging-friendly tonewoods and vintage-inspired voicing
 
By 1981—the year of this guitar—Martin had fully settled into the HD-28’s design approach, producing instruments known for responsiveness, booming low end, and wide-open projection. Early HD-28s have since developed a reputation as some of the finest post-1960s Martins, prized by flatpickers, singer-songwriters, and collectors alike.
 
This HD-28 remains in very good condition, showing only minor, cosmetic wear from four decades of careful ownership. The spruce and rosewood have aged beautifully, contributing to the rich, open tone that only time can produce.

A mirror plate on the neck heel adds a subtle custom touch without affecting originality.
 
Technical Specifications
Body & Tonewoods
Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
Back & Sides: Solid East Indian Rosewood
Bracing: Scalloped bracing
Body Style: Dreadnought (14-fret)
Binding: White with herringbone top inlay
Backstrip: Traditional zig-zag pattern
 
Neck & Playability
Neck Wood: Mahogany
Scale Length: 25.4"
Nut Width: 1 11/16" (typical for this era)
Fingerboard: Ebony
Bridge: Ebony
Inlays : Diamond inlays
 
Hardware & Appointments
Tuners: Original Martin-spec enclosed tuners (1981 style)
Rosette: Classic Martin multi-ring
Finish: Gloss nitrocellulose lacquer
 
This guitar delivers what early HD-28s are celebrated for:
Deep, piano-like bass that anchors any mix
Crisp, singing trebles with plenty of headroom
Defined mids that work wonderfully for leads
Lively response thanks to the scalloped bracing
Huge projection ideal for both stage and studio
 
The neck is smooth, comfortable, and well-balanced—ideal for long sessions, flatpicking, or expressive fingerstyle work.
The sale includes the original black Martin hardshell case with brown interior, in strong functional condition. A perfect match for a collectible piece like this.
 
This 1981 Martin HD-28 is more than just a great-sounding dreadnought—it’s a significant part of Martin’s return to pre-war craftsmanship, and examples from this era are becoming increasingly sought after.
 
Collectors, players, and vintage enthusiasts will all appreciate the tone, history, and condition of this guitar.