Art Deco Shyvers Multiphone Jukebox Selector - Incredible Skyscraper Design

Rare Empire State Building Shyvers Jukebox Selector

Ref: O248

Seldom seen Art Deco Shyvers "Multiphone" jukebox selector in cast aluminum this spectacular piece has a strong resemblance to the Empire State Building. The 1935 Shyvers Multiphone was invented by Ken Shyvers, who is also credited for inventing the pinball machine. The strong Art Deco architectural lines make for a stunning display item.

The Multiphone was a music selection device that operated over telephone lines mostly in Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia, Washington from 1939 to 1959. These units were typically placed on tables, counters or bars. A patron could deposit a coin and speak with a telephone operator standing at a turntable at the Central Music studio, who would then play a selection in the speaker at the bottom of the Multiphone. These units became popular because they had a record range of 170 whereas jukeboxes only had a record range of 20-48.

This unit is in great original condition and is complete with the red faceted “jewels”+  red grill cloth. The unit has the original lock and key to access the coin mechanism. Unit is in great condition for its age it has some scuffs + mold marks consistent with the molding process and years of use. The unit has a low serial number #602 on top casting making this an early production model.

This stately Art Deco piece of coin-op history measures 17” high. This set is sold "as-is + untested", the chassis seems complete. Jukebox selector is being sold as a "non-working" vintage electronic device that should be gone over by a qualified technician.