Could this be the elusive 1st Victor I tag...?

[Curt A]

I recently obtained an early Victor I tag with a very low serial number. Research in the Victor Data Book indicates that the first known numbered tag for Victor I machines is #479... Could this be that particular tag?

[NEFaurora]

If so, What a find! And I don't even collect Victor/HMV machines!

A tag definitely worthy of a very early Victor 1 Machine!

Anything's possible...The Edison Amberola 1a Serial#2 was found a few years ago in decrepit condition, and restored.

)

Tony K.
Edison collector

[Jerry B.]

So are you an active ID tag collector or was it a lucky find or good trade? Jerry

[Curt A]

Jerry,
It was a lucky find that I couldn't pass up...

[Phonolair]

Interesting, I was doing the same research awhile back to check on a early Victor 1 I had picked up. I believe you have the tag from a early small case Victor 1 introduced in 1905. The serial numbers started at 2 and went up. In 1909 with the introduction of the new large case Victor 1 the serial numbers were started over again beginning at 479. So there would be two Victor I's with the same serial number of 479, 1905 small case 1 and 1909 large case 1. The earlier Id tags differ from the later ID tags, that's why I believe you have tag 479 of the small case 1 and not 479 of the large case 1.

Best Regards, Larry

[Curt A]

Thanks, Larry... in any case I think it was a good find.

[Phonolair]

Thanks, Larry... in any case I think it was a good find.

Yes a very nice find, just imagine that machine was probably assembled within the first week or two of production. I understand that some machines just aren't worth saving these days but when such a early machine pops up no mater the condition I think for historical reasons it should be kept intact. At least you able to see the value in this ID tag and save it from the fate of the rest of the machine, good job.

Best Regards, Larry

[Curt A]

Actually, I think I know what machine this came from and am attempting to obtain it...

[Johnny Smoke]

Or a repro?

[Curt A]

Definitely NOT a repro...