
Description
This is a Roy Smeck ukulele made by Harmony. It is solid Mahogany, top, back, sides, and neck. This ukulele has a molded plastic fretboard. Remarkably, there is an ivrory binding around the soundhole. They also made them with wooden fretboards with fret wires. This ukelele plays well. Enjoy a piece of history. Roy Smeck was born Leroy Smeck in Reading, PA in 1900 and he played in vaudeville and was an early radio performer, putting together acts for appearances across the country. Almost all of them had his name in the band title, including The Roy Smeck Trio, The Roy Smeck Quartet, Roy Smeck and his Vita Trio, Roy Smeck's Novelty Orchestra and Roy Smeck and His Music Men.
He loved Martin instruments but their support was limited. As a result, he endorsed the Harmony and Gibson guitars and Harmony ukeleles. Smeck was also known for his work on the Harmony company's Vita-Uke along with a number of other versions sold with his signature across the headstock. He lived a long life passing away in 1994.
Sold with the original case included. A vintage zipper by Prentice is used on the case. These zippers are becoming more rare.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent with no issues
Dimensions:
Height: 20.5 in.
Width: 6.5 in.
Depth: 2.25 in.
Category: Models & Figurines
Origin: United States
Materials: Mahogany, Plastic
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $27.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Laconia, NH
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
He loved Martin instruments but their support was limited. As a result, he endorsed the Harmony and Gibson guitars and Harmony ukeleles. Smeck was also known for his work on the Harmony company's Vita-Uke along with a number of other versions sold with his signature across the headstock. He lived a long life passing away in 1994.
Sold with the original case included. A vintage zipper by Prentice is used on the case. These zippers are becoming more rare.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent with no issues
Dimensions:
Height: 20.5 in.
Width: 6.5 in.
Depth: 2.25 in.
Category: Models & Figurines
Origin: United States
Materials: Mahogany, Plastic
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent with no issues
Buyer's Premium
20%
Vintage Hand Crafted Mahogany Ukulele by Roy Smeck
Estimate $170-$520
Starting Price
$35
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
April Curated Finds Part II
Apr 03, 2026 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
TOP






























