The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I would like to learn more about The Badger Talking Machine Co. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
As a starting point, I found the following attached advertisements in the Talking Machine World.
I'm curious how many 10-50s they modified with coin boxes and glass doors, for use in hotels and restaurants and whether or not this was done with Victor's blessing.
I am also curious if the Badger Co. modified other models this way?
Any help with this research would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Gene

Gene, I don't have any printed data on that subject, just some experience. Many years ago, I had a 10-50 with an accumulator unit installed inside for coin operation. There was no coin box, or wall box, on the 10-50 itself, just a plug in spot on the back side where, I assume, a remote wall unit could be attached. There was no window in the door as described in that ad. I decided to make the 10-50 as original as when it left the factory (something I now regret) and so removed the accumulator unit, which I still have to this day. I may decide to install on the 10-50 I have now, so it can be remotely started. I found it a bit unusual that a machine like that could win popularity since someone had to reload the records when they had all played through. Russie Ofria

judging by these ads, and the use of the Victor logo, it sounds like the company was a Victor distributor, since one ad mentions servicing Victor dealers.

I wonder if Victor was quietly encouraging this sort of thing to clear stock before introducing their new style changer.

estott wrote:I wonder if Victor was quietly encouraging this sort of thing to clear stock before introducing their new style changer.

Great question!

Gene

Here's the example that I am purchasing. (see attached)
The first four photos show the coin mechanism.

Gene

Wow Gene, that looks really interesting. I hope you make a video of its operation. Love the addition of the viewing window.
Good luck with the deal... .

Here is a blow up of the ad for easier reading.

That 10-50 is absolutely beautiful! Quite a treasure for any collection, as the glass window makes it extra special. Orthophonic, automatic, and coin operated; its a fantastic combination!

Thank you for the kind words.
I will definitely make a video of the machine in operation, once it arrives later in January.

I found these "Badger Co." post cards this morning.

Gene

Gene,

Doesn't look like my VE 10-50 has the Badger type of window and coin mechanism like yours but here's some photos of mine unassembled for comparison purposes.

-Wayne