Front Mount Monarch Special (MS) for sale

Introduced at a price of $45, the Monarch Special was Victor's most expensive, top-of-the-line machine of 1903. It is also arguably the most ornate phonograph of its date, at least certainly among Victor machines. Its relative scarcity and exquisite cabinet combine to make it a favorite of modern collectors.

The triple spring motor, Victor's finest, depicted in the images here, offered extended playing time.

The original long throat reproducer on this machine was equipped with the short-lived spring loaded quick release of 1903, very desirable in its own right.

The front mount version of the MS, in my observation, is somewhat harder to find than the later rear mount version.

The machine here is playing properly, as you can see and hear in the youtube video below.

I have looked and looked at the finish and cannot determine if someone in the history of the machine wiped or rubbed it down. In any event, the finish is very satisfactory.

The tiny locator pin on the reproducer, necessary to set the proper angle of the reproducer to the record, was broken and has been replaced. If you look very hard inside the reproducer, you will see a tiny drop of solder.

The brass bell horn with brass elbow is approximately 20 inches long with an 11 inch bell. There is some typical light creasing on the horn (see images).

This has always been a model highly desired by collectors, popular because of its gorgeous cabinet and relative scarcity.

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Lynn Bilton
Box 435
Randolph,OH 44265
330 325-7866

We buy, sell, and repair antique phonographs and music boxes.

Pick-up and delivery possible in many parts of the midwest,south, and northeast.