1969 Martin D12-20, (Used)

The 1969 Martin D12-20 is a vintage 12-string acoustic that captures the essence of Martin’s mid-century craftsmanship with its warm, resonant tone and understated elegance. Built with a solid mahogany back and sides paired with a solid spruce top, it produces a rich, woody sound with the shimmering, chorus-like quality that only a well-aged 12-string can deliver. The body is a slope-shouldered dreadnought, slightly smaller and more comfortable than the standard D-size, giving it a balanced voice with strong projection and clear articulation across the frequency range.

This model features a 12-fret neck joint and slotted headstock, hallmarks of the 20-series design, which contribute to its distinctive look and slightly softer feel under the fingers. The mahogany neck has a full but inviting profile, while the Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to the guitar’s tonal complexity and historical value. Over the decades, the solid wood construction has opened up beautifully, offering a deep, harmonically rich tone that’s ideal for both strumming and fingerstyle arrangements.

The D12-20 is a sought-after instrument for players and collectors alike, not only because of its vintage appeal but also for its ability to deliver a uniquely expressive voice that modern 12-strings often struggle to replicate. Its minimalist aesthetics, historical construction methods, and matured tone make it a standout choice for anyone looking to experience the full, ringing character of a classic 12-string from Martin’s golden era.