1976 Martin D-76
In celebration of the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence Martin built a limited run of 1976 commemorative Dreadnoughts and branded the model the D-76. The guitars are each uniquely numbered (this one is #854), and feature an engraved brass plaque that’s mounted on the neck block where the serial number would otherwise be found. The D-76 is also unique in that it’s the only model ever offered by Martin to feature a transferable limited lifetime warranty.
The D-76 is a rosewood and spruce Dreadnought that is built with a 3-piece back highlighted by herringbone marquetry. The top is similar to that of a D-28, but with herringbone in the rosette’s center ring as well. The fingerboard sports star inlays – 13 of them in total – to represent the original 13 states, and the headstock features a stylized version of the US Coat of Arms, inlaid in pearl.
This example is in quite wonderful condition, without any real playwear of note and original finish throughout. The guitar has somewhat recently had a neck reset and its pickguard replaced, and a crack at the pickguard’s margin was repaired solidly. The tuners have been replaced with modern Grover Rotomatics, and nut and saddle are nicely made replacements as well.
The guitar has a warm and well-developed voice with more bass presence and volume than most 70’s Martin dreadnoughts. It has a lovely balance and good volume.
The neck has a full carve with a fairly rounded feel and a nut width of 1-11/16”.
With original blue Martin case.
The D-76 is a rosewood and spruce Dreadnought that is built with a 3-piece back highlighted by herringbone marquetry. The top is similar to that of a D-28, but with herringbone in the rosette’s center ring as well. The fingerboard sports star inlays – 13 of them in total – to represent the original 13 states, and the headstock features a stylized version of the US Coat of Arms, inlaid in pearl.
This example is in quite wonderful condition, without any real playwear of note and original finish throughout. The guitar has somewhat recently had a neck reset and its pickguard replaced, and a crack at the pickguard’s margin was repaired solidly. The tuners have been replaced with modern Grover Rotomatics, and nut and saddle are nicely made replacements as well.
The guitar has a warm and well-developed voice with more bass presence and volume than most 70’s Martin dreadnoughts. It has a lovely balance and good volume.
The neck has a full carve with a fairly rounded feel and a nut width of 1-11/16”.
With original blue Martin case.