Rare Vintage J. E. Albright Licensed Telegraph Key Number 720
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:20580206 | Brand: Unknown |
| Country/Region of Manufacture: United States | Model: Vibroplex |
| MPN: Does Not Apply | Type: Side-to-Side Keys |
Up for bid is a Rare Vintage J.E. Albright Licensed Telegraph Key Number 720. The heavy metal base measures 3 1/2” X 6 1/2” X 1/2”. The Nameplate is located on the top portion of base which says: This Machine Is Licensed but Not guaranteed Nor manufactured by J.E. Albright 253 Broadway, New York. No 720. I had obtained the following information regarding this key: This key although not by a known manufacturer is very collectable due to it having been licenced by J. E. Albright an...d carrying a serial number of 720. It dates from the early 1900’s and is generally refered to by collectors as being an Albright licenced Telegraph Key. James Albright who ran a typewriter and telegraph instrument shop at 253 Broadway, New York was Horace Martin's sole selling agent for his Vibroplex Keys so when it became clear that people were manufacturing bugs to Martin's design he threatened and prosecuted the manufacturers of these illegal bugs. He might also have sued the individual owners of these counterfeit bugs, but he had a better idea: He allowed the operators to use their bugs if they paid a two dollar license fee. Upon payment, a plate was affixed to the instrument allowing its continued use. Because the maker's tag was removed from the bug when the Albright plate was attached, determining the maker of these keys can be difficult. SPECIAL NOTE! I will be listing another key by Horace Martin and would compliment this key for your collection. If you win both of these items, I will combine the keys into one box to save money on shipping expense . If you win both, please wait for the revised invoice reflecting the new shipping charge. Please view all photos for best detail.This device has not been tested & I am offering this “As Is” & “As Found”. Please save me on your favorites as I have many more related pieces that will be listed soon. Please be sure to view all photos attached and read the below condition & exception informationExceptions, Issues, Remarks: • The base is a Ferrous Metal• The base is in very good shape & might had been re-finished years ago• Hardware components are in good shape with evidence of normal wear• The two small flat head stabilization screws on the paddles have been replaced with Phillips screws (they stick out slightly) due to one of the original screws was broken at tip. I have saved both of the original screws & will be included. • Overall cosmetic condition rating: Good• SPECIAL NOTE: Photos have been slightly enlarged to provide best detailsNote: Condition Rating is subjective & I have accessed this item to the best of my abilityShipping Criteria: I will charge $13.50 shipping charges to anywhere within the United States via USPS Priority MailPayment:Payment is expected within 3 days after auction close. Once payment has been received, allow 3-5 business days to receive your item. I will post the tracking number into the EBay system, once accepted by the USPS. Issues:After receipt of your item & per chance I had overlooked any problem that you feel uncomfortable with, please contact me within 7 working days of receipt of item so that we can discuss & resolve the issueThank You!Good Luck!
