Artifax Books

Vibroplex Telegraph Keys For Sale

Ordering and shipping:All keys are subject to prior sale, so inquire first as to availability. Shipping of any key on this page to your street address in the lower 48 U.S. states is $12.00. Elsewhere, inquire.

The Vibroplex Collector's Guide (3rd edition) has 118 pages of information, patents and photographs on these keys. It is available for $24.95 plus $3.00 USA shipping. See the new book page for more information on this useful reference.

First there was Horace Martin's "Autoplex," an electromechanical semi-automatic telegraph key. Then in 1905 came his Vibroplex key, a manual bug. Today, thousands of keys and many models later, the Vibroplex key is a collecting specialty in itself. This page will include anything Martin or Vibroplex related.

You will occasionally see statements that the Vibroplex was first produced in 1904. There is no evidence for this. It is based on the "Aug 9 1904" patent date on the first nameplates - but that patent was for a release-mechanism bug, not for the Vibroplex (which patent was finally applied for in April 1906). See pages 37 - 38 of the Vibroplex Collector's Guide, third edition.

After Horace Martin developed his Vibroplex, others were quick to copy it. Around 1911 to 1915 J.E. Albright, Martin's "sole selling agent," threatened to prosecute not only those manufacturers but anyone who used the "bastard bugs" - unless the operator paid a $2 license fee. Bugs bearing the Albright license nameplate are especially collectible Vibroplex artifacts and will be included on this page (in the rare event we have one for sale).

A nice collection of Vibroplex keys would contain one of each model. But since the Upright and the Midget are scarce (and expensive), a more reasonable goal might be the six bugs of the late 1930s: Original, Lightning Bug, Champion, Junior, Zephyr, and Blue Racer. Finally, there are rare models such as the "patent 457" bug, a predecessor to the Model X (Martin said about 100 were made; one is known), the "Vibroplex Premier," a Vibroplex-built Mecograph (again, one is known), and perhaps others waiting to be found.

But a collection isn't necessary. One nice representative example to use or display can fulfill the "Vibroplex part" of a telegraph or ham radio setup. We present several vintage Vibroplex keys below for your consideration.

Vibroplex key nameplates are based on my list in the Vibroplex Collector's Guide, third edition. Dates are based on John Elwood's (WW7P) survey. (Thanks to Randy Cole for providing this information on the web. Randy also has keys for sale.) Pictures of the plates can be seen here, courtesy of Bob, N0UF.

#M806TGL ... Martin Flash Key.

Here is a Flash Key made by the sons of Horace Martin in the 1930s under the name of Martin Research & Manufacturing Corp. All Martin Research Flash Keys (there were four models) are scarce, because the Bunnell company acquired the rights to the keys shortly after they appeared. (The "Bunnell-Martin" Flash Keys were offered for at least five years, and so are more common.)
This "professional no. 1" model is in excellent condition, with a wonderfully clear nameplate. The weight appears to be a later Vibroplex weight; otherwise, this bug is complete and original.
Another view.
$475.00 (s&h = $12.00)

#0205CAG Vibroplex clone.

In the early twentieth century, several makers, many still unidentified today, copied Horace Martin's design for the Vibroplex semiautomatic key. This one is rare and unusual: The lever stop screws are held in a U-shaped bracket like that of Martin's Norcross and New York double lever bug. Rivet holes show that a nameplate was once attached. The nickel plating on the base is mostly gone and the base is covered with a patina of surace rust. One wire terminal nut, and one stop screw and locknut are not original. This would benefit from restoration and refinishing, but it works fine, though the contacts need cleaning. If you collect Vibroplex clones, this one may be unique. (It is remotely possible that this is actually a Vibroplex prototype.) Second photo
$475.00

Vibroplex Signal Corps J-36.

We occasionally may have one for sale. If we do, you will find it on the "Other U.S. Military Keys" page: click here.

#111 ... 1906 Martin Vibroplex.

The A2 nameplate reads "The Vibroplex, Horace G. Martin's, patents no. 732,648, 767,303, others pending." It has serial number 26xx stamped on the damper upright. This 1906 bug is the second variation of the Original, and is in working condition. It has the usual 3/16" hole in the base near the hot wire connector (common on very early Vibroplexes).
It probably belonged to a full-time Western Union or railroad telegrapher since it shows heavy use: The fixed dot contact and its jam nut are non-Vibroplex replacements. The wire terminals are of different styles (although both are of the type used on early Vibroplex bugs). The feet look to big to be original. The dash lever contact holder is soldered to its screw. The paddle screw is rusted. The black japan finish is chipped on edges and sides of base, and the nameplate has some light surface rust. (The upper pivot jam nut may be hard to see, it is mounted under the frame bar.)
On the plus side, all the hardware is present including the original weights, paddle and knobs. If you are looking for a very early Vibroplex, here's one to consider. Photo 2 Photo 3 Photo 4
$995.

#502TRL ... 1907 Martin Vibroplex.

This early Original model has an A3 type nameplate and the serial number on the damper upright is 2788, dating it to 1907. This bug has seen a lot of use in its day: The combination dot spring and stabilizer (a rare find on any Vibroplex) is probably a vintage aftermarket accessory, and the dash contact is obviously a replacement. The base finish seems to have been very thin nickel plating, most of which has worn away. There is one weight, and the wire terminals may not be original. Second photo Stabilizer Nameplate
$895.00

#V907TYO ... 1913 Original.

It's not often we can offer a "B plate" Vibroplex... this one has the B4 type plate, one of only two plates (the other is the rare B3x plate) with the Vibroplex trademark number. The serial number (on the damper as on all A and B plate Vibroplexes) is 504xx, dating it to 1913.
The silver hammertone finish on the base was undoubtedly done (nicely done) by an owner years ago. The the interesting paddle is of course not original -- I can't tell what it's made of, maybe plastic, wood or fossil ivory? There is a hole drilled in the base, perhaps for a desk anchor screw. And the fixed contact screws with their locknuts are replacements (Speed-X type?). You can see these and a few other small defects in the photos. This bug is tested, adjusted, and working.
Another view. ... and another.

SOLD

#506TYT ... 1923 nickel based Original.

The nickel plated base finish cost a couple dollars more than the colored or black bases, which was a lot in the 1920s. This explains why they are scarce. The 89xxx serial number on the type D2 nameplate dates this bug to 1923. This old-timer is complete with both weights. It is well used and the finish is worn and freckled. With its early style design it would be a nice addition to a vintage operating desk. Larger photo Photo 3 Photo 4
$225.

#V1007CGH ... 1942 Deluxe Original.

Early style Deluxe with the squared pivot frame and damper support. The D5 plate and 119xxx serial number date it to 1942. This bug generates fast dots - due, it seems, to a rather stiff mainspring.
The weight screws have been replaced with short set-screws; the paddles are Lionel type; and the fixed dash contact post has been replaced with an earlier style. There are a few scratches in the left side, see photo. Correct a few parts and you will have a nice WWII Deluxe.
Another view. ... Left side.
$175.00

#V806TYO ... 1958 Standard Original.

Serial no. 202xxx, 833 Broadway NY (D6 plate). Appears unused. Why buy a new one when you can have a fifty-year-old collectible for less money? Excellent condition. There is a small rubbed spot in the finish at the top back of the base (to the right of the damper). Second photo

SOLD

#464 ... 1960 Left-handed Deluxe Original.

Serial no. 215xxx, D6 type nameplate (833 Broadway NY). Complete with two small weights. Very good + condition, there is some slight scuffing of the chrome to the rear of the fixed dot contact. Second photo
$395.00

#V806TOP ... 1927 Lightning Bug.

The No. 6 Vibroplex, later called the "Lightning Bug", was first produced in 1927 - and here it is! The 1013xx serial number on a D3 nameplate (Fulton Street, seven patents) dates it to 1927. The nickel plated base (an extra-cost option) has some freckling and small spots of corrosion, they may not show up well in the photos. Overall it's a nice, complete, early No. 6.
Another view. ... and another.
$285.00

#V707DOP ... 1929 Lightning Bug.

Here is an early Vibroplex No. 6 (only later would it be called a "Lightning Bug"). The 1038xx serial number on a D3 nameplate (Fulton Street, seven patents) dates it to 1929. The black Japan base finish has is chipped and worn (see the photos). The dash lever is a bit loose on the pivot pin, and its contact is a replacement. However I adjusted and tested it and it works well. If you are after an early No. 6 at a reasonable price, check this one out.
Another view.

SOLD

#0306BPP ... 1938 chrome base Lightning bug.
While the chrome base is usually associated with the DeLuxe models (jeweled pivot, red paddle and knob), it actually replaced the nickel finish before the DeLuxe bugs were offered. Once the DeLuxe models were offered (in 1939), chrome would be available only on those.
Here is an early, pre-DeLuxe chrome-plated Lightning Bug. Serial no. 1112xx on a D3 nameplate (796 Fulton Street) dates it to 1938. Complete and original, it would benefit from polishing, and there are a few small rust spots on it, near the hot wire terminal; it was hard to photograph them with the shiny chrome. An interesting vintage Lightning Bug for the Vibroplex collector.
Second photo. Third photo.

SOLD

#V907TTE ... 1941 Deluxe Lightning Bug.

An early deluxe with the red paddle and knob, but old enought to still have the upper pivot screw and nut, and the old style wire terminals. It also has a pigtail ground lead from the dash lever to the left pivot post. Complete, original, and works well, but the chrome base finish is rubbed, freckled, and has a few small spots of corrosion.
Would look much better after disassembly, cleaning and polishing. One of the earliest Deluxe bugs I have had the chance to offer.
Another view.
$189.00

#V1007BAT ... 1943 Lightning Bug.

A standard model Lightning Bug with D5 type nameplate and serial number 1254xx, dating it to 1943. It is in very good condition, orginal and complete, and apart from needing a little cleaning, has no flaws to mention.
Another view.

SOLD

#806BRE ... 1944 Lightning Bug.

A standard model Lightning Bug with D5 type nameplate and serial number 132xxx, dating it to 1944. (The serial number is hard to read, it is stamped rather than raised.) This is complete and original, but needs a thorough cleaning and oiling. Large pads have been put around the feet to keep it from moving on the operating desk (or perhaps in the airplane). If you have the time to put into this, you may end up with a real bargain.
Another view.

$99.00

#V1006TYY ... 1945 Deluxe Lightning Bug.

A scarce Delue model Lightning Bug from the WWII era. The D5 type nameplate and serial number 140xxx date it to 1945. It has the red fingerpieces and the gray base of the early Deluxe bugs. The nameplate appears oxidized, it may be a steel plate. This bug is complete and original.
Another view. ... Nameplate.

169.00

#V807TYH ... 1952 Deluxe Lightning Bug.

A fine deluxe Lightning Bug with a D6 plate and 179xxx serial number. Here is the real deluxe: chrome base, red paddle and knob, and jeweled pivot with the red dot on the upper pivot. It has the connector pigtail between the dash lever and one frame support, the old-style wire terminal nuts (they would change in 1955), and the circuit closer.
Excellent nameplate and finish. Overall a beautiful classic for your operating desk. Why buy a new Vibroplex when you can have a nice collectible? They don't make the Lightning Bug any more.
Another view.

SOLD

#V707CAP ... 1954 Lightning Bug.

An excellent vintage gray-based Lightning Bug with a D6 plate and 187xxx serial number. There is a small chip on the base at the left front (toward operator) corner and the washer on the weight is not original. These minor faults are the only things that keep this bug from being "like new." This Standard Model still has the old-style wire terminal nuts (they would change in 1955), and it has the circuit closer option.
Why buy a new Vibroplex when you can have a nice collectible? And they don't make the Lightning Bug any more.
Another view.
$169.00

#V1007CAG ... 1972 Lightning Bug.

An excellent Standard Lightning Bug with the gray base. This has the D7 nameplate with serial number 2683xx, dating it to 1972. This has the new-style wire terminal nuts. Note that since the circuit closer was not included on this one, a screw fills its pivot hole. This is a fine New York bug with absolutely no faults.
Another view.
$195.00

#V1007CAG ... 1976 Lightning Bug.

This Lightning Bug looks as though it may never have been used. It has the Standard model beige base, a D7 nameplate with serial number 379xxx, and the new-style wire terminal nuts. Excellent condition. There is a slight curved depression in the base casting at the back left which may be seen in the photo.
Right side view. Left side view.
$195.00

#V1096DRY ... 1979 Standard Lightning bug.
When Peter Garsoe bought the Vibroplex Company in 1978, he moved it to Portland, Maine. The last Lightning Bugs were assembled there using the New York parts inventory, and the bases were painted beige. When the inventory was used up in 1979, the Lightning Bug was no more.

Here is one of those bugs, with the D7 plate (833 Broadway, NY), 389xxx serial number (1979), and beige base. It is a Standard model, without the circuit closer option. It has chips in the finish at the near and far corners of the left edge (see photos), and is otherwise in excellent original condition.
One of the very last Lightning Bugs.. a rare additon to your Vibroplex collection.
Second photo. ... Third photo.
$195.00

#127 ... 1973 Presentation.
Serial no. 271xxx, 833 Broadway NY. With a Vibroplex case (1973 style with plastic handle). At this time you could get your name engraved on the plate and this one is engraved "Raymond P Hall." Also, the circuit closer was an option, and there is NOT one on this bug (a screw is in the hole). In 1973 the Presentation still had the adjustable mainspring (this important feature of the original Presentation models was dropped in 1979). Excellent condition.
Second photo Mainspring adjustment

SOLD

#VIB344 ... 1917 Blue Racer.
This early Blue Racer was used by an operator at the CB&Q railroad station at Homestead, Iowa. It includes the original cord and wedge used to connect it to the hand key on the operating table. It has the earliest style square pivot frame (pre-cloverleaf), and a pinned dashlever. The type C1 nameplate with a 58xxx serial number dates it to 1917. It is complete, though it has seen a lot of use which explains the wear to the knob and paddle, and why the contact screws look like later replacements. None of the gilt pinstriping is visible, and it needs a good cleaning.
If you are after a vintage bug with history, look no further. Photo 2
$445.00

#V205EEY ... 1919 Blue Racer on large base.
The C2 type nameplate and 68xxx serial number date this unusual Blue Racer to 1919. A November 1918 ad offered three versions of the Blue Racer: (1) with blue enameled base at $15.00, (2) with nickel plated base at $17.00, and (3) "mounted on old style base" at $15.00. The one offered here has both the old style (large) base and nickel plating. It also has the cloverleaf frame found on Racers of this era. And the C2 plate is interesting; it is the only plate to list the Boulter key patents (there are ten patent numbers on the plate, more than any other plate).

This key has one weight, and is otherwise complete and original. The base plating is in poor condition, with areas missing at the back corner and on the rear edge. This rare model might be kept as is, displaying its great age, or fully restored with replating and polishing.
Second photo. Third photo.
$495.00

#V907TLR ... 1919 Blue Racer on large base.
Another rare Blue Racer on the "old style [large] base." From the same era as the key above, with C2 type nameplate and 67xxx serial number. It also has the cloverleaf frame found on Racers of this era.
Good condition, complete with both weights. The paddle and the dash spring are replacements. An early owner's initials "HLL" are scratched into the base -- that it is initials and not call letters suggests that this was used by a railroad telegrapher.
Another view. Nameplate.
$445.00

#V907TTG ... 1925-26 Blue Racer.
This Blue Racer has the earliest D3 nameplate (Fulton Street, 7 patents) I have seen. The serial number 194XX dates it to 1925 according to John Elwood's list. In my book I date the first appearance of the D3 plate at 1926; looks like I may have to change that. This has the U damper and early cloverleaf frame. It has seen a lot of use and some abuse: the damper arm carrying the wheel is slightly bent in, the front of the frame (facing the operator) has dents, much of the nickel plating is worn off, the knob has been replaced with a paddle, and the huge feet look like old replacements. The base is shiny,and looks like it was sprayed with clear lacquer.
Yet it works very well, though quite fast with the one weight. Overall, it gives the impression of having sent many train orders in an old railroad depot. This is a Blue racer with character.
Another view
$345.00

#VIB010 ... 1933 Blue Racer.
This old Blue Racer has a D3 nameplate (Fulton Street) and the serial number of 1070xx dates it to 1933. It has the "U" shaped damper and the cloverleaf pivot frame. It is in very good condition. There is one small chip in the black finish (on the left edge); a little bit of the original gold pinstriping remains at the back. Photo 2

SOLD

#V607TGH ... 1950 Blue Racer.

A transitional Blue Racer with the D6 nameplate, black wrinkle base finish and the modern style knob and paddle. The base finish is beautiful -- not the deep wrinkle finish of early 1940s bugs, but an almost "smooth wrinkle" finish. This racer is complete, original and near perfect... there are two very tiny chips in the top of the finish near the knob and paddle; they do not show in the photos and are only noticeable when the key is held just so at an angle to the light.
Another view.

SOLD

#V907TOT ... 1954 Blue Racer.

Late style, Standard model Blue Racer. The D6 nameplate and 1856xx serrial number dates it to 1954. Thisis complete, original and in excellent condition -- with no faults to mention.
Another view.
$295.00

#VBR191 ... 1955 Blue Racer.
A late Standard model Blue Racer. The base measures about 6-1/2 x 2-1/2 inches. It has a type D6 nameplate and the 191xxx serial number dates it to 1955. This "new style" racer, with the L damper and small Original type frame, still has the early style wire terminal nuts. It is complete, original and in good working order, though it needs cleaning. There are a couple of small chips (corner and edge) in the gray crackle base paint. Photo 2
$245.00

#V1204TGP ... 1959 Blue Racer with cord, box and receipt.
In 1959, a Signal Corps radioman in the 2nd Radio Company at Camp LeJeune looked over an ad of the Vibroplex models. Perhaps his fellow corpsmen had bought the Original, or the Lightning Bug. He decided to get the Blue Racer; he'd get the Standard model, with the gray painted base, but he'd order it with the cord and wedge so he'd be all set to plug it into the straight key on the operating desk when it arrived. And when he at last received the shipment from New York and opened the box, it was a beauty: It had the Original style frame and damper, but on a smaller scale. The gray crackle finish sparkled and the red bug on the nameplate stood out.
Here is that bug. It has a D6 nameplate with a 2102xx serial number (1959). From its condition, either he didn't use it much, or he took great care of it. There is a smudge (paint?) on the lower left corner of the nameplate. Otherwise it is in excellent condition; the cord looks unused. The original box is obviously used, and the upper left corner of the label (which includes the serial number and "with cord") is torn. The original sales receipt is worn at the edges.
A wonderful find for your collection or operating table, with provenance.
Second photo. Third photo.
$345.00

#VIB159 ... 1962 Deluxe Blue Racer.
This chrome plated Blue Racer has a D6 nameplate with serial number 227xxx. Note the small "L" style damper on this late Racer. It is complete with all original parts, and is in excellent condition. It only needs to be cleaned to make the chrome sparkle. This bug will really stand out on your operating desk. Photo 2
$395.00

#BOX406 ... Blue Racer carrying case.
This rare case was made for the 2-1/2" wide Blue Racer; the photos show it in front of an Original case for comparison. This is in very good condition. The handle is missing, and there is light scuffing on the lid corners. One small area on the front edge of the inner lining is torn. No key. Larger photo
$112.00 (s/h = $9.00)

#V907CASE ... 1946 Blue Racer carrying case.
This Blue Racer carrying case dates to 1946, but any No. 4 (Blue Racer) will fit in it. Unlike the larger cases, which were made for the Original, Champion, and Lightning Bug, these cases were made to fit only the smallest Vibroplex and so are rarely found. The outside measurements are about 3-3/4" wide x 8-1/2" deep x 3-3/4" high. There are four metal feet on the bottom. The leather handle is in good condition, but there is no key.
Another view
$145.00 (S/h = 9.00)

#608CAT ... 1979 Champion.
A complete and original Champion in like-new condition. The D7 nameplate and 387xxx serial number date it to 1979. This, and the fact the nameplate is glued on (no pins) shows it is one of the early Portland Maine bugs, which used the last of the NY plates. The feet, fingerpieces and finish show little or no wear; this bug may not have been used at all.
The Champion is a nice "radio bug" (no circuit closer) for the QRS operator - unlike some bugs, this can be set to a slow speed (as well as adusted faster). You won't find a nicer gray-base model than this one.
Another view.

SOLD

#208CRR ... 1942 Champion.
A complete and original Champion with the early black wrinkle finish. The D5 nameplate and 1220xx serial number date it to 1942. From the condition of the finish, and almost no wear on the feet and paddle, this Champion appears to have been well cared for and had very little use. It is unusual to find a WWI era bug in this nice condition.
Another view.
$179.00

#1005TEY ... 1952 Zephyr with box.
Although the Zephyr was offered for almost twenty years -- from 1939 to 1958 -- it is one of the scarcer models. It is similar to the Champion, but it is on a narrower (3" wide) base and has a circuit closer. This one has the D6 nameplate (the last plate to be used on the Zephyr), and the serial number (1748xx) dates it to 1952. It is complete, original, and in very good condition; there are small chips in the black crackle base finish on the edges, and the finish is somewhat burnished or rubbed at the back right corner. This Zephyr includes its original box (with matching serial number on label); the box shows its age but is on good condition. Second photo Third photo
$295.00

#V907TEL ... 1954 Zephyr.
A complete and original Zephyr with a D6 type namplate ("patented", 833 Broadway) dated to 1954 by the 183xxx serial nmber. Good used condition, the nameplate has some age spots, and the wrinkle finish is chipped away from the right front corner (see photo).
Another view.
$195.00

#1003TOY ... 1920 Martin Junior.
The Martin Junior was produced from 1921 to 1939, and the D1 nameplate came out in 1921, according to my book (Vibroplex Collector's Guide, 3rd edition, 2001, out of print). I may have to revise that, because the serial number on the D1 plate on this one - 803xx - dates it to 1920, according to Elwood's list! This is one of the lowest serial number Juniors that I am aware of. It shows age and use: One weight, poor knob, the gold pinstriping is very faint, there is a large chip in the finish at the front right corner, and the finish has craze cracks (seen in second photo). Includes a cord and wedge, which was used to attach the operator's personal bug to the company hand key on the operating desk. Second photo
$245.00

#305TTY ... 1920 Martin Junior.
Another very early Junior, with serial number 806xx on a D1 plate, dating it to 1920. Very little of the gold pinstriping is left, it has one weight, and the dot contact on the pendulum is a later replacement. Otherwise all parts (including the knob and paddle) are original. Second photo
$245.00

#605TTT ... 1920 Martin Junior.
A very early Junior, with serial number 807xx on a D1 plate, dating it to 1920. None of the gold pinstriping is left. It has one weight. The dash lever is somewhat loose on the main lever (the bent lugs could be crimped tighter). The top pivot screw has been broken short. Otherwise all parts (including the knob and paddle) are original. Former owner's call and year (1922) on bottom. This Junior has the best action of any I've tried. Second photo
$195.00

#V907TYO ... 1921 Martin Junior.
A good used Junior. The D1 nameplate and 81xxx serial number date it to 1921. There is some freckling of the nickel finished parts, and the base finish has chips along the edges, especially at the back. It is complete, with both weights, and original except for the paddle (which appears to be a Lionel).
Another view. ... and another.
$185.00

#TEY258 ... Early Model X.
Horace Martin's "single lever direct point transmitter," soon known as the Model X, was introduced in 1911. The one offered here is a scarce early model; it has a B4 type nameplate ("Horace G. Martin" on the plate) and serial number 12242 on the terminal connector strip, dating it to 1913. Note that first-style Model X bugs have the mechanism mounted to a sub-base, and on the "early early" models the screws for the feet protrude through the base, as on this one. Original and complete; needs cleaning, and the black base finish is missing in large areas. Second photo Third photo
$895.00

#TRG454 ... Improved Model X.
Horace Martin's "single lever direct point transmitter," soon known as the Model X, was introduced in 1911. The scarce "improved model" (identified by its round pendulum and weights) appeared in 1919 and was only produced for two years.
The improved model offered here has a C3 type nameplate with serial number 75xxx, dating it to 1919 - 1920. It also has the bug decal (quite faded). It is original and complete, although the black finish is chipped on the corners. Some of the original gold pinstiping remains. Second photo
$895.00

#BOX126 ... Large bug carrying case.
Made for the 3-1/2" wide based bugs (Original, Lightning Bug, etc), this is in good used condition. The handle is missing (replaced with a tape strap), one of the bottom corners is scuffed, and one corner of the inner velvet needs gluing. No key. Larger photo $40.00 (add $8.50 s/h)

#BOX266 ... Large bug carrying case.
Made for the 3-1/2" wide based bugs (Original, Lightning Bug, etc), this is in good used condition, complete with original leather handle. The lid corners are scuffed, especially on the bottom edge. No key. Larger photo

SOLD

Vibroplex cord and Wedge. The cord-and-wedge was used by railroad and Western Union telegraphers years ago to connect their personal bug to the company hand key on the operating table. The wedge end would be slipped between the base and connector strip of the hand key. A typical item (shown at right) has the old style cloth covered wires with integral stay-cord to prevent strain on the wires, and the Vibroplex name and address stamped on one or both brass leafs - as seen in this example.

Those with no name on them, or another brand stamped on the brass wedge leafs, are on the main for sale page.

We will list below any vintage Vibroplex cord-and-wedges we have available.

U.S. Shipping of a single cord is $3.00; no added shipping charge if ordered with a key.

#408-1VWEDGE ... Fulton Street wedge
This has the Fulton Street address. The cloth covering over the two wires is missing, so that the wires are free; otherwise it is in good condition. $27.00

#408-2VWEDGE ... Fulton Street wedge
This has the Fulton Street address. Similar to that shown above. Excellent condition. The brass leafs have aquired a patina with age. $39.00