Hi Amy,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Company was founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1902 by Orville Gibson. It became one of the most influential musical instrument manufacturers in history, known for its innovations in mandolins, guitars, banjos, and other stringed instruments. Gibson manufactured ukulele-banjos (or banjo-ukuleles) in Kalamazoo, MI, primarily during the early to mid-20th century. These instruments combined the tuning and playing style of a ukulele with the construction of a banjo, producing a louder, more percussive tone. These instruments were built in Gibson’s Kalamazoo, Michigan, factory, which was known for producing top-quality banjos, mandolins, and guitars.

Though refurbished examples of these ukulele banjos retail for between $800-1,200 depending on condition, when sold at auction, they rarely bring more than the fair market price of $500 when sold at auction.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A near antique Gibson four-string ukulele banjo
UB model made by the Gibson Mandolin Guitar Company, Kalamazoo, MI, circa 1920s-30s
The body made of rosewood with a maple neck with ebony and mother-of-pearl front, calfskin face and maple bridge. With brass or nickel-plated tuners, brackets, and tailpieces.
24-1/2 inches overall length.
CONDITION: This ukulele banjo appears to be in good condition and comes with its original hardcase with green felt lining, with wear commensurate to age and use. Musicality not warranted.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 3,000-5,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia