The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just acquired my first complete external horn Columbia, a Columbia BNWM. Where does one find the serial number on these machines? I see a number stamped on the motor, but I do not know if this is the number of the motor or the serial number of the machine.
Thanks,

Judging by the crickets in the room, I'll assume that serial numbers were not put on these machines, or it is not readily apparent. I find that a bit odd since earlier Graphophones did have serial numbers stamped on the data plates, and Victor and Edison were very good about putting serial numbers on their machines throughout production, as far as I know.

Top wind AJ's have Serial #'s ......I've sold all the rest of my Coilumbia's and don't remember if they had numbers......

Iowa Dale

I'll say this with some reservations, most Columbia disc phonos have the serial number stamped on the
edge of the motor frame casting. Don't know if they are in any numerical sequence by model as was done with cylinder
phonos.

Chuck