1940s–50s Silvertone Stainless Steel Recording Wire Reels – Lot of 9 (Historical Recordings)

Description :
This rare lot of nine Silvertone stainless steel recording wire spools captures a unique slice of mid-20th century American history. Originally sold by Sears, Roebuck and Co. under catalog no. 6757, each reel contains 7,500 feet of magnetic wire capable of recording or playback at 2 feet per second. These reels are marked with handwritten labels identifying historically significant recordings, including the 1st and 2nd Joe Louis vs. Jersey Joe Walcott boxing matches (1947 and 1948), President Harry Truman’s speech, Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1952 nomination acceptance, and personal moments like a 16th birthday celebration for Ray Polizzi. Several spools include names, dates, and topics such as “Jana,” “Truman,” and “Important Speeches.” The reels are housed in original blue tins with vibrant yellow labeling, some showing wear consistent with age. These spools are a treasure trove for audio historians, archivists, and collectors of early sound recording technology.

Era:
1940s–1950s

Style:
Mid-Century Industrial

Technique:
Magnetic wire recording using stainless steel wire with surface magnetization, predating reel-to-reel tape recorders

Tools Used:
Silvertone Wire Recorder (likely Models 7080 or 7082), analog microphone, mechanical playback heads

History:
Wire recorders were used before magnetic tape, notably for military, news, and domestic recordings. These labeled reels suggest direct cultural documentation from late 1940s America.

Manufacturer / Maker:
Maker: Silvertone (Sears, Roebuck & Co.)

Measurements:
Each reel: 3½" Diameter x 8¼" Circumference

Suggested Weight:
Approx. 2–3 lbs total (with case)

Suggested Shipping Package Dimension:
12" L x 10" W x 6" H

Music:
Glenn Miller – “Moonlight Serenade” (capturing the domestic and wartime audio landscape these reels once belonged to)

Item Number : P15757

Category : Collectibles

Brand : Silvertone (Sears, Roebuck & Co.)