This all-mahogany 0-15 left Nazareth, Pennsylvania in 1955. As it finds us in 2024, this Martin has vibe and character like no other guitar. Because of its pale, greenish color, we call it the "Ghost Martin," and it's easily one of the most popular guitars in the shop.
When we got it, the story was that this guitar lived most of its life in Denver, Colorado. But at some point along the way, an aspiring player brought it to New Orleans, where they tried to make it in the music business. According to the story, the musician didn't find success, so the guitar returned to Colorado after baking in the Louisiana heat and humidity. When the guitar arrived back in Denver, it supposedly took on the unique appearance we see now.
Whether or not the story is true, lacquer has clearly been over-sprayed over the original finish. That leads us to two theories: 1) The overspray was intentionally tinted, perhaps in hopes to replicate a blonde or TV Yellow finish; or 2) The new lacquer overspray didn't get along with the original finish, and that left enough space in between so moisture and humidity could discolor the finish. If the overspray was added before the guitar went to New Orleans, than maybe there is some truth to the story! The color does look a lot like moisture damage, especially when moisture gets in between layers of an improperly cured finish.
All in all, the mystery is what makes this guitar special! This 1955 Martin 0-15 includes a '70s hardshell case that is cool, but not a great fit. In the case, you'll find a signed letter from Martin legend Mike Longworth, dated September 22, 1971. In the letter, Longworth recommends straightening the neck and adjusting the action.
At present, this '55 0-15 is an excellent player, thanks to past repairs. Someone once reinforced the neck by driving a screw through the neck heel, and that has been corrected, and the neck is now nice and stable thanks to the Martin X-Series style mortise and tenon hex bolt. The bridge is a proper Rosewood replacement, and it has a drop-in saddle for easy adjustment. The guitar has been refretted, and the tuning machines are 1960s Grover Rotomatics. It is outfitted with a K&K Pure Mini pickup. Because of the repair and setup work, this guitar functions 100% as you need it to, and the pickup makes it suitable for any performance. Just imagine what this guitar would look like on stage!