Hello Ukulele Underground

Hi All - Hope this is in the correct thread - seemed like the right place to start. This is a ukulele that I recall from the 60s. It was my dad's and I have no idea where he got it from or how long he had it before I came along. There are no labels inside and it appears that there was a metal plate at the top but that's long gone. Would love to know more about this type of instrument. Thanks in advance.

Welcome to UU MimiLandon! I can't help much with the identification of your uke but I'm sure someone here will.

The uke in question is actually a tiple, a 10-string variant of the humble 4-string uke. Based on the inlays I think it's a Regal from the mid-1920's - but I've never seen a bridge that beastly on anything!

Check out this one that Jake Wildwood restored:
http://antebelluminstruments.blogspot.com/search?q=regal+fancypants+tiple

There are some major cracks in the top. The binding on the upper back has broken spots. Both of these things make me think that perhaps it has not been cared for that well over the years.

Don't know about these things, but it may or may not be worth the cost to restore it.

Tiples aren't exactly that popular when compared to ukes, so consider your ability to re-sell if that's what you're planning to do.

If it has a lot of sentimental value and you want to learn how to play it, then it might be worthwhile. Otherwise, it might be best as a wallhanger/decoration.

Thank you!! Greatly appreciate info and direction.