C. F. Martin T-17 Model Tiple (1938), made in USA, natural lacquer finish, mahogany top, back and sides, black original hard shell case.
A nice if well-played "Swing Era" Tiple. While not well-remembered now, numerous small African American string-swing ensembles of the 1930s made extensive use of these small, loud instruments for both fast lead work and frantic strumming. Two of the best known were the Spirits Of Rhythm (featuring guitarist Teddy Bunn) and Cats and the Fiddle, where Tiny Grimes got his professional start.
This T-17 is all mahogany with an X-braced top, built somewhat sturdier then 1920s examples. The bridge, headstock overlay, and fingerboard are rosewood; the nut is ebony. Gold C.F. Martin decal on headstock; unplated plastic-button strip tuners. No binding; simple dot inlays. Plays perfectly and sounds great, with original HSC.
Overall length is 27.25 in. (69.2 cm.), 9 in. (22.9 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 3.5 in. (8.9 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 17 in. (432 mm.).
Structurally fine condition; one tiny hairline behind bridge. Finish is all original with some noticeable checking to the back of the neck and heavy discoloration the areas of the face where the playing arm rubs and strumming hand rests, although the finish is not heavily worn through. It looks as like a previous player of this instrument was probably prone to sweating enthusiastically while performing. Both instrument and case are 100% original and functional.
