June 20-21, 2020 Coin-Op & Advertising
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/20/2020
This is an extremely rare coin operated phonograph from the "American Sales Company" which was located at 932 Wrightwood Ave. in Chicago IL. This coin operated phonograph is unique in that it plays 4 different 78 RPM records as opposed to the Edison style disc records that other coin operated phonographs play. Very little is known about the American Sales Company, no other phonographs like this one have surfaced and the only other reference found to date of the company are tokens bearing the name of the company. Housed in a console style oak cabinet, the phonograph operates by a center mounted tone arm that will rotate to each record individually to be played. One coin plays one record and rotating clockwise to each record with each coin played, all which can be seen through the glass top. Under the center located tone arm is a brass tag also identifying the company and address, patent number from 1916, 1923, and 1926, the words "Daily Concert Phone" and a serial number 307. Also comes with 4 records of varying makes. The phonograph is not restored, though it has cycled through its playing operation, it needs to be rewired, and the upper back door is a plywood replacement which could easily be replaced with matching quartered oak. This never before seen coin operated phonograph is an amazing survivor and worthy of being added to any advanced phonograph collection. Original condition and needing some mechanical assistance to operate.
This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.Condition: (Very Good).
Item Dimensions: 23" x 24" x 48".