The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I recently acquired a VV-XI "Tabletop" phonograph in quartersawn oak, but at some time in it's history, the original brass ID data plate was replaced with an incorrect data plate from a much later floor model. I know this because the original paper license sticker is present on the bottom of the phonograph with the correct serial number (1519) printed in the upper right-hand corner. Also, comparing that serial number with the VV-XI's listed in the Victor Data Book shows that it was a "Type M" manufactured in 1910, during the first production run. Does anyone know if "Blank" Victor ID data plates are available or, does anyone manufacture these data plates today to the original Victor design, and be able to re-stamp the model and serial numbers on them? Can't hurt to ask.

I've seen blank data plates on ebay in the past, and to be honest, I've never been overly impressed. Nipper looked more like a ram than a dog. Then of course, that leave open the question of how to stamp the number.

I've always wondered if one could take an original data plate and either fill, sand, or hammer the numbers out, and restamp?

If you had a quality blank, couldn't you have the serial number stamped by a trophy shop? Jerry Blais

Jerry B. wrote:If you had a quality blank, couldn't you have the serial number stamped by a trophy shop? Jerry Blais

That's a great suggestion. Thanks.

I still have a few genuine Victor blank plates, of the pre-1913 pattern, which came out of the estate of a Mr. F. O. Buffington, of Chesnut Hill, Pennsylvania back in the late 1960's. Mr. Buffington was a principal in the Philedelphia Nameplate and Engraving Company, which press a Victor supplier. I understand that the haymow of Mr. Buffington's carriage house was filled with many boxes of plates of different patterns, plates for electric appliances, automobile components, ranges etc.

I only have unfinished plates, etched but neither filled nor silvered.

P. M. If you need one.

Uncle Vanya, could you post a photo of a blank ID tag? I'd love to see it. Thanks, Jerry

Jerry B. wrote:Uncle Vanya, could you post a photo of a blank ID tag? I'd love to see it. Thanks, Jerry

Ditto from me. Thanks, Bruce