The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi everyone,
Would one of you have an idea about the value of my Type Q machine made by the American Graphophone Company in New York, and the accessories?
The machine’s six digits serial number starts with a 3, I’ therefore guessing that the year of its manufacture was 1897-98. Can you confirm?
And what about the 23 wax cylinders of which some are privat records, some commercial music and some still naked.
I need the information for insurance purposes.

The same question goes for the (seperate from the Graphophone) record needle sharpener.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

The Type Q didn’t appear until early 1899.

George P.

Nice

Yeah early 1899 to probably about early 1901?

AmberolaAndy wrote: Mon Jun 17, 2024 10:23 pm Yeah early 1899 to probably about early 1901?

Actually, they were in production for almost 10 years.

-- Grant

Fonotone wrote: Tue Jun 18, 2024 7:28 pm

AmberolaAndy wrote: Mon Jun 17, 2024 10:23 pm Yeah early 1899 to probably about early 1901?

Actually, they were in production for almost 10 years.

-- Grant

I’m talking the ones with the serial number starting with 3.

Many thanks for all your replies, which help me with the dating of the machine.
Now the question remains about its approximate current value. Would anyone have an idea, even if it’s a rough one only?

Dodo wrote: Wed Jun 19, 2024 11:17 pm Many thanks for all your replies, which help me with the dating of the machine.
Now the question remains about its approximate current value. Would anyone have an idea, even if it’s a rough one only?

This is a common machine. Check out "sold" prices on eBay. The records are interesting and may have more value than the machine, depending on condition & musical content.

I'm not absolutely certain about the reproducer: perhaps some photos from a different angle?
(The reproducer for the first style Q had a distinctive angled throat; this looks more like an early #2...?)

- Bill

I know that you are considering donating this to a museum with hopes your family history will be preserved. Please be aware that museums don't have storage space for all donated items and a somewhat common machine like this will not get a permanent display. It will likely be sold as excess, so you would be better advised to give it to an interested family member as a keepsake or sell it to a collector who will appreciate it.