I saw this too late and most likely didn't have deep enough pockets.. Anyone know if it is an original? Sure looks it but I know there were older repros made. If anyone knows what it sold for, I'd also be interested in knowing that too..
IVEY-SELKIRK auctioneers & appraisers
Name Winter Gallery & Fine Jewelry Auction 2010
Date(s) 11 Dec 2010 - 13 Dec 2010
Location 7447 Forsyth Blvd
St Louis, MO
5319900_32R0VSCXP.jpg (37.75 KiB) Viewed 1967 times
5319900_32R0VSCXP.jpg (37.75 KiB) Viewed 1967 times
A sensational find. I am fascinated from tinfoil phonographs since the beginning of my collection work in the late 1990s. This is a genuine exhibition phonograph manufactured by Sigmund Bergmann in August 1878. The brazen speaker arm and support arm for the halfnut, and the brass oil cups characterize an upgrade model leased for $150.
In September 1878, E. B. Hamlin contracted with the Edison Speaking Phonograph Co. to get four tinfoil phonographs, including No. 110 for the use of which he paid $150 (royalty paid to Edison on $135). By that contract, Hamlin was obliged to pay 25% of the gross receipts to the Edison Speaking Phonograph Co.
Hamlin was a professional showman and general manager of the Edison Speaking Phonograph Association of Illinois, 150 Washington street, Chicago, consisting of members of the Western Union Telegraph Co. In June 1878, the Edison Speaking Phonograph Ass'n had taken over the right to exhibit the phonograph outside of Chicago, and the night exhibit in that city from George H. Bliss. Bliss received 5% of the gross receipts, and reserved the right for the day exhibit to himself.
Steal of the century. It even included a four-page hand-written letter from George Bliss on Edison Pen stationery explaining in great detail how to operate it.
I wonder what happened if the machine was not displayed on the internet for some time, and finally fished up by a knowledgable lucky beggar. Who would be clairvoyant enough to look for such a machine among antique lacquered tables, ivory figures and gold charms.
Starkton wrote:I wonder what happened if the machine was not displayed on the internet for some time, and finally fished up by a knowledgable lucky beggar. Who would be clairvoyant enough to look for such a machine among antique lacquered tables, ivory figures and gold charms.
Well, I for one can think of a few people that do..... . That was 36,000.00 + 18% BP!!!!.
Still a hell of a deal.
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