The guitar in this article is a 1890 Martin 0-28 guitar. At the time, Martin considered this model to be the best choice for concert work.

Between 1888 and 1893 Martin enjoyed a period of increasing sales, from about 250 guitars in 1888 to 500 guitars in 1893. This was followed, due to the Panic of 1893, by a period of sharply decreased production until the end of the century.

Thus, the most commonly seen dates from the 1890s are from 1890 to 1893. This particular guitar is dated "12/90" for December 1890 (see photo below).

Note the fancy "arrowhead" purfling of the back stripe. Later 28 style guitars used "zig-zag" purfling for the back stripe.

A lovely and pristine pyramid bridge

German silver Seidel tuners with ivory buttons

Photos by permission of Bruce Herrmann