Here we have a fantastic 1976 Maton Messiah, Maton’s long-standing flagship acoustic model and one of the most respected Australian-built guitars of its era.
This example is particularly special as it features solid Brazilian rosewood back and sides paired with a solid spruce top — a highly sought-after tonewood combination that is rarely seen on later production instruments. Brazilian rosewood is widely regarded as one of the finest tonewoods ever used in acoustic guitar construction, prized for its deep piano-like bass response, complex overtones and exceptional clarity.
Matched with the responsive solid spruce soundboard, this Messiah delivers a beautifully balanced voice with excellent projection, making it equally at home with fingerstyle playing or strong strumming.
This guitar also features the rarer non-keystone headstock, a variation that is not commonly seen on Messiahs from this period and adds a unique visual element for collectors and Maton enthusiasts.
For a guitar approaching 50 years of age, it presents in very good condition overall. It has clearly been played and enjoyed over the decades, which has helped the guitar open up tonally and develop a warm, resonant voice.
The frets show noticeable wear, consistent with a well-loved vintage instrument, however it plays cleanly with clear notes up and down the neck and remains very enjoyable to play as it sits.
The guitar comes complete with the original Maton hard shell case.
A wonderful opportunity to own a vintage Brazilian rosewood Maton Messiah — a significant piece of Australian guitar history with a fantastic sound and plenty of character.