~1940 Harmony Johnny Marvin Mahogany

Harmony Johnny Marvin Tenor Ukulele c 1940 | $375 | (c2204) Although the label says 'Tenor Ukulele', it's really a concert or soprano size instrument. Johnny Marvin, aka Honey Duke and his Uke, was a radio and recording star from 1924 until his unfortunate demise in 1944. He used a number of pseudonyms in order to record for a variety of labels, and signed an endorsement with the Harmony company once he became very popular. The Johnny Marvin ukes were built with quality materials and appointments, unlike many cheaply-made, mass-produced ukes of the era.

This near-mint example sports a nice grade of mahogany for the body with some curley figure on the top. The top is bound in white/black/white celluloid and the back is bound in white. The neck is mahogany as well, featuring a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard with four pearl position markers. The headstock features the Johnny Marvin endorsement decal.

The uke measures 7 3/4" across at the lower bout, and scale length is 14 1/2". The fingerboard measures 1 7/16" across at the nut and string spacing is 1 3/4" at the saddle.

The uke is 100% original and is in near-mint condition. There are no evident repairs. There is a bit of finish chipping at the heel joint, but the joint is solid. There is no evidence of playing wear, with only a few nicks from age and use, a spectacular example!

The uke produces a bright tone and plays easily.

Comes with a new hard case.

Check out the sound clip!