The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Back in early 2021 I posted a request for serial numbers of Columbia Type N Graphophones in collections. The response was gratifying, and with information acquired then and in the two years since, I now have 60 numbers on file. But I'm sure there are many more out there that remain unrecorded. 

If you have a Type N, either the regular home version or the scarcer coin-operated model, and you didn't previously respond, please let me know the serial number (either in this thread or by PM) and any pertinent details that come to mind. I am particularly curious to determine when Columbia stopped stamping the on/off lever with the word "SWITCH." I'm also interested in any Thornward numbers.

Your information will be kept private, but I will share any useful data information that may come from this study.

Thank you for this post. I recently just tried finding the earlier post without success. My Graphophone N is serial number 40138. It is not mint, but it is early. The on off switch is marked "Switch" and the speed control is marked "speed ADJ screw". The lid handle is not like the later barrel handles but like the ones found on the "Perfected Graphophone" or more similar to Edison. The governor weights are steal cylinders like those found on an Edison.
God bless

PS the spring barrel is cast iron.

Thanks so much for that information. That is the second oldest N I have recorded. A very special machine.

When I got the machine several years ago it did not have a decal or a transfer. So I bought I high quality repro and had it placed on the cabinet. Did I do wrong and should I try to have it removed. If you you know of one older did it have a transfer?

The earlier known N is an electric model, and it doesn't have a decal. So it is possible that yours didn't have it originally. That is unknown, but definitely possible.

Hi,

I'm not sure if I sent you my information on the N's I have. I might have a few years ago.

SN:44206 - Coin op with Washington DC Decal
SN:45266 - Home Model Washington DC Decal
SN:65822 - AN with NY Decal/ID Tag

No special markings on the bedplates. All have Gutta Percha Reproducers, and the AN & N Home have Gutta Percha Recorders with them.

Hope this helps in your research.

Todd

Thanks for that information!