Marconi Velvet Tone 78 rpm Single Sided "Coronation Waltz" Columbia Band #05
$
27
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Description
Marconi Velvet Tone records (“Wonderful as Wireless”) were only available for 2 years, in 1907 / 08. They were mastered and pressed by Columbia using Marconi's photo and endorsement.
Significant because they were made of a flexible laminate instead of brittle shellac.
They were marketed with a big, expensive campaign, touting Marconi's involvement in the research and development of this fabulous new process.
He actuality had almost nothing to do with the records, but was very happy to take his cut for the use of his name and picture on the sleeves.
They were a HUGE marketing flop …. because:
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They cost more that other records 75 cents ($18.10 in today's money)
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You had to play them with a special gold plated needle that cost 25 cents (perfectly safe to play them with your modern diamond or sapphire 3 mil. stylus)
Because they sold so poorly, they are somewhat rare today. They only issued 400 sides. This one is #5
This disc is in good condition and plays through without skipping. The original owner must have had the money to spend on the special needles.
Sleeve is basically intact (Hey it's 110 year old paper) with rice paper front insert.
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