The term Golden Era has several different definitions depending on how the words are used.

Martin Guitars "Golden Era" when used as a period of time, refers to guitars made from 1930’s until 1945.

Martin has produced modern guitars with Golden Era in the name. The most common model is the D-18 Golden Era, which is a modern replica of a 1934 D-18. These guitars discontinued and can no longer be ordered.

Martin also uses the term Golden Era for a variation of their Scalloped Bracing. This type of Scalloping is more aggressive compared to a Standard Scallop. With Golden Era Scalloping, there is more wood shaved from the Braces and the X brace is a little tighter fit. This variation of scalloping helps the tone and responsiveness, by letting the top vibrate more freely.