The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I ran across a good number of the blue Amberol cylinder records in the 22000 cylinder numbers. I see these were part of what was called the Mexican series. Can anyone fill me in on some information about these? Are they scarcer and more valuable? Thanks!

Are these the 2 minute series BAs? Those were intended for customers in Mexico who only had 2 minute machines, and are pretty rare in the US.

- Bill

The cylinders that are 2 minute will have 2M on the rim, otherwise they are normal Amberols.

James.

Yes, those numbered in the 22000 series are 4 min BA's.
While they are no doubt scarcer than your average American or British series cylinders, I don't think they'd be any more valuable than any other foreign series unless it was of some sort of historical importance.

In the UK, cylinders were available to order from any of the national series. Judging by the number of Mexican Series cylinders which still turn up here, they must have sold quite well outside Mexico. The 2 Minute Mexican BA's are indeed rare.

This is my 2 min BA.
2M-1262 Episodio Historico Batalla Del 5 De Mayo 2a

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Gxd8BSINAoU ... IECMiOmarE

Does anyone know whether 2 minute BA's were produced for countries other than Mexico?

As far as is known, they were only produced for the Mexican market. Edison was loathe to publicise their existence, you won't find any reference to them in the EPM, which is one reason for their scarcity today.

Regards

Tim W-W

PM sent for wants.

James.