The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello all ...

can anyone give me an idea of the value of the various Ptacek-built replica tin foil phonographs?

I am working for an auction firm in the western US that will have several for sale from an estate over the next 6 months or so.

Terry [email protected]

I'm afraid they will be worth whatever your buyers are willing to pay for them!

Garret wrote:I'm afraid they will be worth whatever your buyers are willing to pay for them!

A good auction house should know that already.....I would assume..???? . Sorry, what auction house did you say your with??. I ask so that I can bid when the auction takes place .

Doing a search, shows the OP is a columnist for the Tri-City Herald newspaper.

I know that auction house.... . I guess just another spam.

I'd be a bit wary of an auction house offering several...those things were not at all cheap when new, though the retail price is up to the market.

Before everyone jumps to conclusions in case you do not know there are at least two major collectors in that area of the world. Might be well to follow up this string. About 20 of my BC cylinders came from one person over there about 20 years ago who would be in 80ties now. OTAPS oldsters know who I am talking about. Anyway just a thought. LH

Yes, one should follow up on this. However, I for one find it hard to believe a reputable auction house or one of their "so called" representatives would not bother to state the house name. I mean besides the obvious reasons like...... attracting interest and god forbid....bidders!!!.... . Instead the contact leads you to a columnist???. OK, I won't jump to anything myself.... :lol.

Here is the e-mail I just sent to this fellow. I know I usually get into trouble when I open my mouth and my e-mail but I feel strongly about this subject. We shall see.


Several days ago I responded to a posting you made to the Antique Phonograph Forum. You replied that I would be added to the list when the Tinfoil phonograh(s) were to be auctioned. Do you actually have these items and will they be in an auction in the future or are you collecting historical bid data from prior auctions for your "What is it worth" web site.



I have no problem with either answer but must tell you the person you are making the inquiry of was a very special person in the phonograph hobby and many other hobbies. His machines although reproductions are very valuable but his memory is even more so. If you are writing an article about him please make sure it goes beyond more than just what something is worth. Not running your efforts down at all in fact I applaud your efforts just make sure you consult with phono folks that really knew him and you will find a much larger story. Larry Hawes

To the members here who have previously replied privately - thank you.

To those who questioned the authenticity of the request for information - thanks for your caution. These are real machines, they will be in a real auction and you will have as much opportunity as the next person to bid.

We, as several members have noted, have been cautious of this material (currently being prepared for an auction this Fall in Walla Walla, WA and simultaneously live on the Internet - date as yet not set). These machines are the property of the Estate of William Shaxxxx of Finley, WA. I knew him, too.

I would still like someone to help independently identify these three machines as by Mr. Ptacek. Is anyone willing to help?

Terry Maurer
[email protected]
Please write me at that edress and we we can keep incidental and uninteresting information off the Forum. Thanks very kindly.

Yes, I also write an antiques and collectibles column in the Tri-City Herald newspaper. These machines have NOTHING to do w/ that sideline enterprise. I am a retired university administrator now doing personal property appraisal work and also research and cataloging for the auction house in Walla Walla.