Comes with original canvas case. I think it was only played a little here and
there then left in its case.
Gorgeous honey gold color in the sunlight! Koa wood is legendary for its beauty and this is over 100 years old & has a lot of life left in her!
Sides and front are crack free. You can see on the back there is a tiny crack but otherwise no cracks.
Internal braces seem to be all glued in tight. The bridge and nut both have little wear, which is remarkable
but just points to having been used very little. Fretboard has a little wear but overall, it's in great shape.
Not a Martin but definitely an early, desirable and very uncommon Uke.
This belonged to a relative who was a musician that collected vintage instruments but then he passed away.
As a result this has been in a box in its case since the 1980's. Note about the canvas case - it's all intact but the bottom leather hinge has fallen apart, but could be replaced. I will include it in the box.
Aside from the small crack I think the tuners need adjusting or new washers as some are tight and some are not.
But hey - this is 100 years old!
I put new D'Addario EJ87S Titanium strings on it and wow it has great warm volume and clarity. Not muddy at all.
I am not an expert in Ukuleles so if you have any questions please let me know before end of auction, as I am not a store and would prefer to avoid any misunderstandings, as can happen here on eBay.
I am in New York so I will have to quote you shipping.
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"George Mossman initially partnered with Clarence Kinney in the ʻukulele business. They advertised beginning in 1914, selling under the "Kinney and Mossman" name. By 1919 Kinney and Mossman had separated, but each continued to advertise as ʻukulele makers. In 1927 Mossman create a new ʻukulele model he called the "Bell-Tone" ʻukulele. Most of his instruments made after 1927 had his "Bell-Tone" label.
This ʻukulele was made somewhere between 1921-1926. Mossman made very nice quality ʻukulele, but in smaller numbers than makers like Kamaka or Kumalae."