Conservatory Model Soprano Ukulele, probably Lyon & Healy, c. 1920, Chicago.
Overall length is 20 3/4 in. (52.7 cm.), 6 1/4 in. (15.9 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 2 3/16 in. (5.6 cm.) in depth at side, taken at the end block. Scale length is 13 1/4 in. (337 mm.). Width of nut is 1 3/8 in. (35 mm.).
This nicely made late 1910s/early 1920s Koa Wood ukulele is not actually Hawaiian, but a very close period imitation! The label asserts "Genuine Koa Wood Quality" and it IS made of wood from the islands, at least, almost certainly in Chicago. This instrument is typical of the early 1920s Hawaiian style ukuleles with a narrow waisted body, arched back, and rope binding decoration on the top, back, fingerboard, and sound hole. There are a couple of old repaired top and back cracks (typical of 100-year-old Koa) and the original bridge has been fitted with a newer saddle. The tuning pegs are old but not original violin pieces. There is some old finish wear but overall this is a very attractive and good-sounding ukulele, perhaps not as sweet as one actually from the islands but still a nice period piece. Overall Very Good + Condition.
