Bidspirit auction | Edison Excelsior Coin Op Cylinder

Edison Excelsior Coin Op Cylinder Phonograph - The Edison Excelsior was introduced in 1901. Production continued until 1908, when it was phased out due to the introduction of 4-minute Amberol cylinders. it carried a hefty retail price of $50. This made it substantially more expensive than its primary competitor, the Columbia Type AS (which retailed for $35), severely damaging its commercial success. Initially built to operate on nickels, operators later adapted them to accept pennies as the absolute novelty of phonographs wore off. At a penny per play, a business owner had to generate 5,000 plays just to recover the hardware investment—making it incredibly difficult to turn a profit. Because few were sold, survivors are highly coveted by collectors. Original finish oak case and decal has been clear coated and presents very well. Accepts coins, winds, plays, and resets as it should. Keys for both the curved glass cover and the cash box included. Has a replacement marquee. The horn is a 14” black with brass bell using an angled brass connector. Measures 17.25” wide, 11.75” deep, 18.5” tall to the top of the marquee. From the Sanfilippo collection.