Manuel Nunes Soprano Ukulele circa 1915 flamed golden koa

Manuel Nunes emigrated to Hawaii from Madeira in 1879 and quickly became a major force in the transformation of the Madeiran machete to the Hawaiian ukulele. He established himself as one of the earliest ukulele makers and operated his manufacturing company for over 40 years, much longer than any of the early makers. Many of his handcrafted instruments bore the label "M. Nunes, Inventor of the Ukulele and Taro Patch Fiddles in Honolulu in 1879." His skills were inherited by apprentices such as Samuel Kamaka and his son Leonardo Nunes, who carried on the tradition of fine quality ukulele construction.

An all around beauty of a classic vintage Hawaiian Ukulele.  Estimating the date to 1915: the mid-point between 1912-1913 when the Southern California Music Company first started retailing M. Nunes ukuleles and 1917 when the company announced cessation as the makers mainland agent.

As can be seen in the photos, this 100 year old ukulele is in nice condition and with the use of Hawaiian Koa on the top back and sides, well, it looks just amazing! The top, sides are moderately flamed and the neck and back have minimum flame figuring to the wood.

Details: 12 frets
Koa Construction
When I received the instrument the nut was in really bad shape so I had it replaced.  Likewise it had a collection of various assembled wooden friction pegs that were all replaced to present a uniform appearance.
The frets were cleaned and the cracks on the top and on the back were repaired
The ukulele has a tapered neck that starts from 1 3/8" at nut and expands to 1 27/32" where the neck joins body.
The instrument does not come with a case, but it can be shipped with an "Uke Crazy" case for an additional fee

Markings:
M. Nunes decal on headstock
Tabu Stamp on interior (faint but visible)
Interior label that reads: " Made esprescsially for  Frank J. Hart of the Southern California Music Company332-334 South Broadway, Los Angeles by M Nunes and Sons, Inventor of the Ukulele, and Taro, Patch, Fiddle in Honolulu in 1879.  Manufacturers of Stringed Instruments, Guaranteed, Kapiolani Bldg., Alakea St., Honolulu, T.H.

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.