National Resonator Ukulele 1927 - Nickel

FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO JOE'S VINTAGE GUITARS in Mesa, AZ with any questions, or to chat about the instrument.

1927 National Resonator Ukulele – A True Museum-Grade Rarity

We are incredibly excited to present this 1927 National Resonator Ukulele. Finding an authentic early-production National resonator is a monumental event for any collector; these instruments are exceptionally rare and represent the absolute pinnacle of early 20th-century resonator engineering. To hold this piece is to hold a significant chapter of musical history.

The Voice: A Sonic Powerhouse

Don't let the size fool you—this instrument is loud. It produces that quintessential, punchy, and metallic "National" growl that simply cannot be replicated by wood-bodied ukuleles. The tone is crystalline and articulate, offering a complex, percussive sustain that cuts through any mix with a bright, brassy edge. It is dynamic, responsive, and possesses a haunting, vintage resonance that is as rich as it is loud.

Condition & Integrity

For a nearly 100-year-old instrument, this National is in great overall shape and has been set up to play beautifully.

• Aesthetic Notes: The iconic headstock decal shows minor loss, consistent with its age and history.
• Fretwork: The frets remain in good playing condition. Please note that some of the upper frets experienced slight lifting over the decades, resulting in minor ebony chip-out in those specific areas. Additionally, upon very close inspection, one fret appears slightly different from the others, suggesting an old, professional-grade replacement. It is perfectly leveled with the rest of the board and creates absolutely no impact on playability or feel; it is nearly invisible to the eye unless under extreme scrutiny.
• Originality: The instrument includes its original chipboard case. Please note that the case hinge has separated, leaving the lid detached from the base, though it remains a period-correct home for this historical piece.

This is a rare opportunity to own a foundational instrument from the dawn of the resonator era. Whether you are a professional studio musician looking for a unique sonic texture or a dedicated collector hunting for the "holy grail" of early ukulele production, this 1927 National is a once-in-a-lifetime acquisition.

At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind every instrument we sell, and we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. That’s why we offer a 7-day return policy with no restocking fee. Take a full week to inspect, play, and fall in love with your new guitar. If for any reason it isn’t the right fit, simply return it in the same condition for a full refund—no hidden fees, no hassle. We know that buying a vintage instrument is a big decision, and we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and transparent as possible. Shop with peace of mind knowing that every guitar from Joe’s Vintage Guitars is backed by honest service and years of expertise.