Custom Jonah Kumalae Style 3 Koa Soprano Ukulele 1918

I've estimated the date of this ukulele to 1918.  The decal on the front of the headstock shows his award at the Panama Pacific Exposition of l915 and the remnant of the interior label shows the address as "1719 Liliha St" so it can be assumed to be made before 1922

Specifications:
Beautifully flamed/grained Koa body
Koa Neck
rope inlay around sound-hole
rope binding on the body
12 fret fingerboard
21" longDecal logo on front of headstock
remnant of interior paper labelOriginal wooden friction pegs
Original case
New Aquila StringsCondition:
Cosmetically she is in great shape.  There is practically no wear on this little gem.  There is one area on the side of the treble side where the finish is slightly discolored (See picture)
There are three seam separations where the back and side meet: one on each side of the waist bout and one on the bottom of the bass bout (see pictures)There is a small very tight crack on the left hand side of the bass bout (see picture)Regarding the two previous condition issues.  Since the internal bracing of the instrument is in great condition and the instrument sounds great, I have always treated these as small cosmetic issues and have opted to just keep the instrument properly stored with a humidifier.  I also believe that less is more when it comes to working on vintage instruments.  A talented luthier would have not issues with repairing these small issues.Because of the age of the instrument the frets have extended beyond fingerboard ever so slightly (see picture).  This doesn't affect the sound or action but makes it a little uncomfortable when playing.  A buyer who wants to play this regularly might consider having them filed down.The end of the case's strap and it's latch mechanism have broken off and are missing from the ensemble.  The new owner might consider a new case and store vintage case empty to preserve it and the ukulele's overall value.Besides these, this instrument is in amazing shape and plays like a hawaiian day dream. Sweet sounding and fun!   No gauges or dents.
Playability:
The Koa body has aged so nicely on this instrument resulting in a lovely, warm classic Hawaii sounding ukulele.
The action is good
Suitable for collector or dedicated passionate strummer/picker

About Curated Vintage Ukuleles & Instruments

I am a collector and dealer of vintage instruments with a particular focus on ukulele. On occasion other instruments come into my possession. I curate only fantastic examples of quality instruments from iconic makers. More than often, the original as found condition is what is presented here. I prefer slight wear to the finishes to authenticate that they are original. I do not like to have work done to my instruments unless necessary for playability or to stabilize a potential deteriorating condition. Unless noted, I haven't had these instruments touched in any way since they've been in my possession. I am always happy to meet serious buyers for you to play before you buy. Buyers from far away lands please inquire about shipping cost prior to purchase.  I just had to add something for shipping abroad.  Depending upon your location and/or desired service the cost could be more or less.

Product Specs

Condition:Very Good Make:Jonah Kumalae Model:Style 3 Koa Categories:Ukuleles Year:1918 Made In:United States