Artifax Books

Vibroplex Telegraph Keys For Sale

All items are subject to prior sale, so e-mail me before paying to check that what you are interested in is still available, to confirm shipping cost, or to ask questions. In the winter we may be out west in our trailer and might not have your item with us (although we can place a hold on an item to reserve it for you). Our email address is

We accept US payment by paypal.com (made to any of our email addresses), by money order, or by personal check with your shipping address imprinted on it. Foreign payment may be made by paypal or by international postal money order. If you pay by mail, let me know and I will hold your item for you.

Shipping costs are not cumulative. If you are interested in different items, I will provide shipping cost. Some small items will ship with a bug at no added cost. But others may be best shipped separately; for example, it is cheaper to ship a few knobs (first class mail) separate from a book (media mail) since knobs cannot be included with media mail.

Shipping of any key on this page to a US address is $13.00. Inquire for foreign shipping cost.

The Vibroplex Collector's Guide (3rd edition, with supplement) has over 118 pages of information, patents and photographs on these keys. Currently sold out. If it is reprinted, information will appear on the new book page. Used copies can occasionally be found on eBay.

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; today 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.

#608GER Norcross Vibroplex double lever.

Horace Martin Vibroplex, United Elec. Mfg. Co., Norcross Ga. double lever. This dates to 1907.
Two years after starting production of the Vibroplex in New York, Martin moved to Georgia for two years. First he produced a few keys in Norcross under UEM, then a few more in Atlanta under Martin Manufacturing Company. This is one of the early Georgia bugs.

Good condition. The weight does not look original. This would be a fine addition to your Martin/Vibroplex collection.
Another photo.
Another photo.

$5,990.

#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.

#132 ... 1905 Vibroplex.

Ready for your cleaning and restoration, here is the scarce first model Vibroplex. Dating from 1905, the type A1 nameplate reads "The Vibroplex, patented Aug. 9, 1904, by Horace G. Martin, New York." The serial number, stamped on the damper support, is 1197.

Three items identify this as the first model: the A1 nameplate, the long screw in the damper frame used to adjust the rest position of the swing-arm, and the use of lock screws (rather than jam nuts) in the ends of the frame arms to secure the position on the stop screws.

As seen in the photos, the base finish is worn, the single weigh is missing its screw, and the contact screws and jam nut are (after over 100 years) replacements. This early Vibroplex awaits your attention.
Another photo.
Another photo.
Another photo.
Another photo.

$2,450.

#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

#305TOR ... Unusual 1955 Left-handed Deluxe Original.

Serial no. 189xxx, D6 type nameplate (833 Broadway NY). Left-handed Vibroplex bugs are scarce, but what makes this one even more unusual is that the wire terminals are on the right side! It is the only one I have ever seen made like this. And no, this is not an altered right-handed bug.
This chrome plated Original is complete with two small weights. Very good condition except for some freckling of the base in front of the pivot frame, see the photo. The screw which normally fills the hole in the left frame arm is missing, or was never installed. Another view ... The rust.

$395.00

#706TRG ... 1960 Left-handed Deluxe Original.

Serial no. 211xxx, D6 type nameplate (833 Broadway NY). Scarce left-handed Vibroplex bug, chrome plated (deluxe) base. This is complete with one medium-size weight. Very good condition. The chrome shows some rubbing (micro-scratches) but will clean up nicely. Another view

$395.00

#509TLE ... 1976 Left-handed Original.

A Standard model Original with the gray pinted base and no circuit closer. Serial no. 379xxx, D7 type nameplate (833 Broadway NY). This left-handed Vibroplex bug is complete, and has one weight (must have belonged to a QRQ operator). It is in average used condition; the finish is worn and stained at the back right corner, and the chrome needs cleaning and polishing. A vintage, scarce collectible. Another view

$249.00

#609BGH ... 1991 Maine Standard Original.

In over a century of Vibroplex history, the bugs were made in Maine for only 16 years. So it's not surprising that we rarely have the opportunity to offer one. An unusual feature of the Maine bugs is the lack of an address on the nameplate. This is serial no. 66xxx, D8 type nameplate, dating it to 1991.
This is the standard model, with a gray base and no circuit closer. It is in excellent and complete condition, with a single large weight on the pendulum. With a litle cleaning of the chrome parts, you will have a scarce and collectible bug for your operating desk. Nameplate ... Another view.

SOLD

#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.

$275.00

#307BHR ... 1932 Lightning Bug.

The 1064xx serial number on a D3 nameplate (Fulton Street, seven patents) dates it to 1932. The nickel plated base (an extra-cost option) has some rubbed areas on the edges and a few freckles on the top, but it should polish up nicely. Two items are replacements: the dot spring tension screw and locknut (appears chrome plated), and the circuit closer knob. Otherwise it's a nice No. 6 for your operating desk.
Another view. ... and another. ... Bottom.

$249.00

#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

#709BAL ... 1945 Lightning Bug.

The 145xxx serial number on a D5 nameplate dates it to 1945. The operator seems to have liked the double paddle arrangement (which was standard on other makes of bugs). The original paddle and knob were replaced with these paddles; the knob hole in the lever was drilled oversize to accomodate them.

There are a couple small chips in the black wrinkle finish at the bottom of the front edge; otherwise it is excellent. The bottom shows age. I washed and oiled this key to show the nice condition of the finish. It is also a fine working key operationally. More than half a century old, this bug would be an asset to your operating desk.
Another view. ... and another. ... Bottom.

$159.00

#1106TGY ... 1956 Presentation.
Serial no. 194xxx, 833 Broadway NY, D6 plate dates this one to 1956. A nice, relatively early, Presentation. Appearing in 1948, the Presentation was the Company's "Super Deluxe" model with a gold-plated brass plate on the base, jewel bearings, "super speed control" adjustable mainspring, and ground pigtail on the lever. It has the circuit closer, and one large weight.

This model was discontinued in 1979 when the adjustable mainspring was dropped (the "Presentation" then became just a variation of the Original). This bug is in excellent condition. The gold-plated plate needs cleaning, but be very careful and gentle in doing so as the 24K plating will scratch easily.
Second photo Another photo

SOLD

#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

Note. The D3 style nameplate, 796 Fulton St. with seven patent numbers, appeared in 1925.

#V907TTG ... 1925-26 Blue Racer.
This Blue Racer has the earliest D3 nameplate (Fulton Street, 7 patents) I have seen. The serial number 94XXX 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

Note. The D6 syle nameplate, 833 Broadway with the word "patented" but no other patent data, appeared in 1946.

#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

SOLD

#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

Note. The D7 style nameplate, 933 Broadway with no patent data, appeared in 1963.

#VBR294 ... 1964 Blue Racer.

A new style Blue Racer with the D7 style nameplate, gray wrinkle base, and serial number 2403xx. Complete and original, with single large weight. It has a black spot next to the dash contact post, and a tiny one on the nameplate (see the photos); otherwise excellent condition.
Another view.

$235.00

#BOX406 ... Blue Racer carrying case.
This case dates from the 1930s - 40s, and was made for the 2-1/2" wide Blue Racer; the photos show it in front of an Original case for comparison. 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 seldom found. The outside measurements are about 3-3/4" wide x 8-1/2" deep x 3-3/4" high.

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

SOLD

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). It is an excellent choice for the modern operator who wants a bug on his operating desk, or for the collector. Although it was an inexpensive key in its time, good examples of the Champion are scarce.

#609CHA ... 1946 Champion.
A beautiful Champion with the early black wrinkle finish. The D6 nameplate and 150xxx serial number date it to 1946. From the condition of the finish and almost no wear on the feet, this Champion appears to have been well cared for and had very little use.
There is light freckling of the crome on the upper pivot plate. The wire terminal nuts are not original. The black wrinkle finish has no defects and appears like new. Overall, an unusually nice WWII era bug.
Another view.

$189.00

#697284 ... 1979 Left-handed Champion.
This is an early Maine Vibroplex. It has the short-lived beige base, and the late D7 nameplate (388xxx serial number) glued to the base. Peter Garsoe, the new owner of the Company, used up the last of the New York plates before making new (D8 style) plates. And this is a rare left-handed Champion!
This key is from my personal collection. It is in excellent condition, and has never been used since leaving the factory.
Another view.

$449.00

#ZEPHYR359 ... 1955 Zephyr.
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 (1902xx) dates it to 1955. It is complete, original, and in very good condition - I have had it in my personal collection for almost ten years. Polish the chrome and oil the black base and it will really stand out.
Another view. ... Bottom view.

SOLD

#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

#205ETHG left handed Vibroplex Model X.

A left-handed Model X Vibroplex bug. Unusually fine condition. One other LH model X is said to exist, but I also heard that its condition was not as nice as this one. Serial number 599xx on a C1 type nameplate dates it to 1917.
Another photo.
Another photo.
Another photo.

$9,950.

#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 (such as this) 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
$645.00

#708ERG Early Model X
As above, though bit later and but in much better condition. The B4 plate and 25991 serial number on the terminal connector strip dates it to 1914. This has the scarce "Albright" decal on the base. Good condition, one weight, some loss to decal, base finish chipping at corners and edges. The knob may not be original.
Another photo.

$795.00

#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
$795.00

#VARISPEED1009 ... Vari-Speed adapter.

Here is an infinitely variable speed adapter for the Vibroplex round-pendulum bugs (Original, Blue Racer, etc). I believe this one was offered by Vibroplex some time ago, though they do not offer them today. Slip this on the pendulum, clamp it in place by the small allen-head screw, and place the weight on its arm. By adjusting the arm back or forth you can vary the speed of your bug a lot more than with the weight on the pendulum.

Offered is the vari-speed only, not the weight or bug shown. Excellent condition.

Another view.

SOLD

Bug cases - note: The large base modern Vibroplex bugs (those with thick conical feet found on bugs with D7 plate, 1966 up) may not fit in vintage cases;the hold-down bars inside the older cases are not high enough to accomodate those keys.
Also, the older cases may not accomodate some very wide bugs. I have found that some WWII era Originals are slightly wider than 3-1/2 inches; a 3-9/16 wide bug is too wide for some cases.

#BOX 221CBC66 ... 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. It wasfound with a 1941 bug. It has the vintage style latch and a nice tan interior. Slight scuffing of the corners. No key. Another photo And another photo

$55.00 (add $9.00 s/h)

#BOX 040CBC ... 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. It has the later, chrome plated latch. Good green interior. The corners are worn. No key. Another photo And another photo

$45.00 (add $9.00 s/h)

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.

For those with no name on them, or another brand stamped on the brass wedge leafs, see 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 $3.50; no added shipping charge if ordered with a key.

From about 1925 to 1941 (and perhaps as late as 1953), Vibroplex has offices at Fulton Street as well as on Broadway, so a Fulton Street stamped wedge would be appropriate for a Vibroplex in that era.

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

#109-2-VWEDGE ... Fulton Street wedge
This has the Fulton Street address on both leafs. Similar to that shown in the photo but has a tan clot cover over the wires. The insulation on one of the terminal wires is cracked. The brass leafs have aquired a patina with age. Overall good condition.

$35.00