The term likely refers to the Ukelin, a stringed instrument that was sold by the International Musical Corp. (IMC) of Hoboken, New Jersey, through door-to-door salesmen in the 1920s and 1930s. IMC manufactured these instruments in factories operated by the Oscar Schmidt company. The International Musical Corp. was eventually absorbed by Oscar Schmidt. The ukelin itself is a type of bowed psaltery and was advertised as a combination of a ukulele and violin.  
Ukelin and IMC information
  • Instrument: The ukelin is a bowed psaltery (an ancient and medieval musical instrument played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum.) with zither strings, designed to be played with a bow for melody and either the fingers or a pick for the chords. 
  • Manufacturer: International Musical Corp. (IMC) was a company that sold ukelins, with production often taking place at Oscar Schmidt factories. 
  • Location: IMC was based in Hoboken, New Jersey. 
  • Sales: The instruments were sold through door-to-door salesmen, often on a payment plan, and came with instruction booklets. 
  • Original Price: The original price was around $35, though prices could vary. 
  • Company Absorption: IMC was absorbed by Oscar Schmidt around 1930. 
  • The ukelin has sixteen melody and sixteen bass strings, divided into four groups for playing accompanying chords. Each group has one large bass string and three smaller chord strings. The ukelin is placed on the table in front of the player. The melody strings are played with a bow in the right hand, and the bass strings are plucked or strummed with the left hand's fingernails or a pick.[3] The ukelin is tuned to a C major scale and, unless tuned to include them, is unable to play chromatic notes; therefore, it is limited in what it can play. For ease of playing for amateurs, the strings are given numbers, and the booklets that were sold with the ukelin would give these numbers a tabulature notation, instead of notes on a staff, for playing simple songs.
The Antique Ukelin manufactured by International Musical Corporation in 1920 is a vintage ukulele with a rich history and unique craftsmanship. This instrument is a rare find for collectors and musicians looking to own a piece of musical history. With its distinctive sound and design from that era, the Antique Ukelin is sure to bring a nostalgic and authentic charm to any musical performance or collection.