telegraph apparatus (appears to be a sender)

By jekauker, 4 January, 2009
Description

This is a key/coil/gear driven instrument that connects to a stack of plates--each plate is notched on its edge similiar to a music box mechanism. When wound, the stack of plates revolves and causes a telegraph key to tap out whatever message is contained in the plates' notches. Two electrical contacts are located next to the telegraph key.

 I have absolutely no idea how to download pictures so I'm hoping that this description is enough for you to provide me with a clue to what it might be.

Category
Other
Medium
primarily brass with some, possibly, steel parts all mounted on a wooden base
Distinguishing marks
none
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
wooden base: 10 1/2" x %"; apparatus: 10"L x 5" W x 5" H
Date Period
late 19th or early 20th century
Weight
approx 4-5 lbs
History
After my father died in 1989, I found it in his basement. He enjoyed antique "electronics"
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known)
none
For Sale?
No