Martin Acoustic Guitars - 1935 0-17 "Black Cat" - Tank Destroyer
This 1935 0-17 is a fantastic example of Martin's single-0 mahogany guitar, and as it turns out celebrates a part of US Army World War II history.
When we first encountered this 0-17 we all thought the hand painted artwork on the top was the sort of whimsical folk art that we see from time to time on vintage guitars. Isaiah from our repair shop, however, continued to be curious about the design and while researching online eventually made a discovery that unlocked it for all of us. The artwork on this vintage Martin is actually the insignia for the Tank Destroyer units of the US Army during World War II.
Once we saw the patch online we all realized that Isaiah had cracked it, and that what we had always seen as paws, where actually the tank treads in the cat's mouth. We sourced a replica unit patch online and are including it with the guitar, as it really brings home that the designs are the one in the same (see photos).
The Tank Destroyer units were activated in 1941 and served throughout Europe in WWII, eventually being absorbed into back into the US Army with the black cat insignia being retired once the units were made inactive after the war. It's entirely possible this guitar was brought along throughout the various units' action in the European theater, but as it was acquired by our store at auction we have no way of knowing for sure.
As far as details about the condition of the guitar go the 14-fret mahogany neck feels fantastic, with that lauded 1935 neck profile that has become the favorite of so many vintage players. There is a impression into the mahogany on the back of the neck (see photos), but nothing that affects the playability of the instrument. There is the expected playwear and scratches throughout, but this 17-series Martin guitar was otherwise very well cared for. Brazilian rosewood bridge, Brazilian rosewood fingerboard. Original tuners.
Clear and focused with a warm sound, this small-body Martin has that 1935 vibe and feel. Thanks to the old-growth mahogany top this little guitar has the headroom to handle a flatpick while also excelling at fingerstyle playing. Modern hardshell case included.
An incredible sounding guitar that celebrates an incredible piece of history.
Payment via Wire Transfer preferred.
Mass Street Music
MasterCard - Visa - Discover - American Express - PayPal - Wire Transfer - (and of course cash, just don't send it in the mail!. We also accept PayPal's financing.
Qualifying gear $25 or over gets shipped to you for FREE via our favorite carriers, FedEx – ground, or USPS, to all 'lower 48' U.S. states. Alaska and Hawaii, expedited shipping, international shipping usually run a little more (more info on these below). There are a few of exceptions to our free shipping which include some in-store gear along with vintage items and great that is designated 'Local Pickup Only.' We do our best to offer competition shipping rates on non-Free-Shipping gear. Orders placed Monday through Friday after 2pm Central will not ship until the following business day. Orders placed Saturday or Sunday will ship the following business day. Mass Street Music Free Shipping details are as follows: Pedals and accessories ship USPS. Instruments and larger items will ship Fedex Ground. Specific shipping services, other than what is listed, will require an additional charge. Please call 785-843-3535 to arrange other options. For any Instrument Orders a Signature with be required upon delivery. Any orders over $400 may require a signature. Questions? Just give us a call at 785-843-3535 or check out our shippings facts online at massstreetmusic.com
All our gear comes with a 7-day evaluation period. An extra 24 hours is added on for acoustic instruments during the winter season, to allow the contents to reach room temperature before you open the box. If you are not completely satisfied with the instrument, just return it via your preferred common carrier. Also, we do not send out instruments for evaluation without payment in full. *All B-Stock sale items are in working condition, and are sold as is. All B-Stock sales are final. To return an item please give us a call, or email to receive a return authorization. We ask that you very carefully pack the gear up in its original carton, with all the accessories and paper work included, and ship it back to us via a common carrier (not Uncle Al's Pony Express) to us. Please insure it for the full retail amount. If the item is damaged while in transit, we'll notify you and ask that you file a claim with your preferred shipper. Once the item arrives back to us and we unpack it, we will issue a full credit for the item, less the shipping charges. (A return voids any free shipping offers and the customer is liable for shipping charges both ways.) If the item is not in its original condition, or is returned after the normal evaluation period has expired without prior arrangement with us, re-stocking fees and other charges may apply.