1994 Martin Gene Autry D-45GA
Even if Gene Autry had never starred in a Western movie or made a hit record, he would be well-known among guitar aficionados for ordering the very first Martin D-45 in 1933. The dreadnought size was new in the Martin line, having just been introduced in Styles 18 and 28 (originally designated D-1 and D-2) just two years earlier.Like the other D's of 1933, Autry's had a 12-fret neck. He had recently had a huge hit record with "That Silver Haired Daddy of Mine," and he was a featured performer on WLS' National Barndance show in Chicago. He dressed in cowboy clothes, and he had Martin dressed up his guitar with a pearl signature inlay on the fingerboard.
Autry's guitar was one of only 91 D-45s made prior to World War II and on of only three 12-fret models. It is displayed today in Autry's Western Heritage Museum in Los Angeles.
In 1994 Martin offered a limited run of 66 D-45s that replicated the original. This guitar (inv. #AA6871) is #42 of 66, with a label signed by C.F. Martin IV and Gene Autry (who died in 1998). It is in near mint condition and features beautifully figured Brazilian rosewood back and sides. If ordered today from Martin, this model would cost at least $50,000. With leather-covered original hard case, it is offered at $15,125
This instrument is SOLD
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