Preliminary identification

Hohner Cutaway Acoustic Guitar, HW Series

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a steel-string acoustic guitar featuring a Venetian cutaway body style designed for easy access to the upper frets. It showcases a rich, laminate mahogany-style top, back, and sides with a high-gloss finish, accented by a multi-ring rosette and a classic black pickguard.

Story

In 1857, a German clockmaker named Matthias Hohner began making harmonicas, eventually building an instrument empire. Decades later, his company brought that same dedication to affordable, reliable acoustic guitars for everyday players.

Maker / Origin

While globally famous for their harmonicas and accordions, Hohner expanded into fretted instruments to capture the booming folk and rock markets of the mid-to-late 20th century. They became highly respected for producing durable, student-friendly guitars that punched far above their weight class in tone.

Condition & Value

The guitar appears to be in good cosmetic condition with a clean gloss finish and no major visible cracks. The strings are untrimmed at the headstock and likely need replacing, and a basic setup is recommended to ensure optimal action. Excellent playability and a straight neck command the top end of the value range.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.