1930s U-King Banjo-Ukulele

Overview: I worked on this a long time ago and when it arrived back here, recently, for resale, all I had to do was tighten the tuners and tune it up. Hey presto! Functional uke.

These banjo-ukes are colloquially known as "U-King" instruments because of the stamped tailpiece. I believe they were likely made by Richter or Globe in Chicago, however, judging by the neck shape and various design elements.

I like the one-piece, metal rim with its integral bracket-band and "implied" tonering from the top-edge curl. It has a good, raucous sound and provides plenty of volume. It's also eye-catching.

Repairs included: Previously, I leveled and dressed the frets, fit side dots, cleaned it up, fit a new bridge, and set it up. It's playing spot-on and ready to go.

• Weight: 1 lb 14 oz
• Scale length: 13"
• Nut width: 1 3/16"
• Neck shape: slimmer C/V
• Board radius: flat
• Depth at first fret: 0.54"
• Depth at seventh fret: 0.63"
• Head diameter: 7"
• Depth overall at rim: 2 1/2"
• Rim wood: steel
• Tonering: integral
• Bridge: maple
• Fretboard: ebonized (painted) on neck wood
• Neck wood: poplar or similar
• Action height at 12th fret: 1/16" overall (fast)
• String gauges: clear fluorocarbon
• Truss rod: none
• Neck relief: straight, hair of backbow past 14th fret
• Fret style: narrow/lower

Condition notes: The head shows discoloration. There's wear and tear throughout the finish (rubbing, scratches, scuffs) and the rim hardware shows tarnish and/or small bits of rust. It appears to be entirely original, throughout, save the later maple bridge.

It comes with: Sorry, no case.

Consignor tag: GCLD