The short version
- Typical range: £15 – £70
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Music & Instruments
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used ukulele is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for ukuleles, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £70 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £59 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £45 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £31 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £17 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a ukulele
- Solid mahogany or koa construction
- Recognised makers with a following
- Geared tuners that hold pitch
- Original gig bag or case
What lowers it
- Laminate construction, which sells for very little
- Friction tuners that will not hold tune
- Cracks in the top or back
- Warped necks with high action
How to work out what yours is worth
- Check the soundhole edge for solid or layered construction
- Tune it and check it holds after a few minutes
- Note the size: soprano, concert, tenor or baritone
Once you have those three answers you can place your own ukulele on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
Are used ukuleles worth much?
Solid-wood instruments from recognised makers sell reasonably. Laminate beginner ukuleles sell for very little.
What size should I state?
Soprano, concert, tenor or baritone. It is the first thing buyers filter on and is often missing from listings.
Why will it not stay in tune?
Usually friction tuners, which slip. Geared tuners hold much better and are worth mentioning if fitted.
More value guides: music & instruments guides · all value guides · browse live music & instruments listings.