Martin Value Guide · October 2026
Vintage Martin Tenor Guitar Value Guide
Many vintage Martin tenor guitars range from roughly $1,100 to $4,000, depending on the model and year. Rare variants and substantially altered instruments require individual appraisal.
Vintage 0-, 2- and 5-size T models, including mahogany and rosewood versions. Plectrum guitars have their own guide. Compare The Authentication Guide.
Current Value Ranges
Estimated retail values in U.S. dollars, as of October 2026. Condition and originality affect the final value.
| Model And Period | Estimated Retail Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1929 To 1939 0-18T | $2,200 to $2,800 |
| 1940 To 1946 0-18T | $1,900 to $2,400 |
| Postwar 0-18T Through 1969 | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| 1934 To 1939 0-17T | $1,800 to $2,400 |
| 1940 To 1947 0-17T | $1,400 to $1,800 |
| 1950 To 1960 0-17T | $1,200 to $1,600 |
| 1927 To 1928 2-17T | $1,200 to $1,600 |
| 1928 To 1930 2-18T | $2,000 to $2,600 |
| 1928 To 1929 2-28T | $3,200 to $4,000 |
| 1949 To 1958 5-17T | $1,200 to $1,600 |
| 1927 To 1928 5-21T | $1,800 to $2,400 |
| 1960 To 1963 0-15T | $1,100 to $1,400 |
| 0-28T, 5-15T And Unusual Variants | Individual Appraisal |
The range depends on condition and originality. Dealer purchase offers and consignment proceeds differ from retail value.
Condition And Originality
Confirm the original four-string neck, scale, bridge and tuner arrangement. Replacement necks and conversions affect value. The price of a six-string Martin with a similar model number does not establish tenor value. Original parts, neck angle, repaired cracks and a usable setup all matter.
For the broader comparison, read how repairs and changed parts affect guitar value. If the finish has been changed, the refinish value guide explains full and partial work and why an acoustic needs its own assessment.
Your Martin's Model, Year And Condition
Get A Value For Your Martin
Send photos of the instrument and any repair records for an assessment of your guitar. You can read about Joe Dampt and the instruments he buys before getting in touch.
Photo Credits
Photographs from Joe's Vintage Guitars. Comparison photographs are labeled and do not depict the exact model being valued.