Vintage RARE 1940's Astatic D-104 crystal "Lollipop" microphone Chrome w handle

             Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.

 You are looking at a unique and rare early Astatic model D-104 crystal microphone from the 1940's (possibly late 1930's) that comes with the original lower chrome handle and built in on / off switch.

 Pic # 2 shows the D-104 from a 1950's catalog. The D-104 is probably the longest running model crystal microphone ever made and is quite popular with HAM radio operators. The D-104 was manufactured by Astatic in Youngstown, Ohio and was to be used as a public address mic as it's non-directional.

 The D-104 had evolved slightly over the decades but has many similarities from start to finish  and utilized the same crystal element during it's production run. 

 You'll notice right away that while this looks like the newer D-104's of the past 60 years this one has a few differences that are quite obvious. This model was intended to either be handheld for public speaking or could be suspended from a hook. This was a specialized version so you don't see too many around. It lacks the typical Astatic badge on top because that's where the factory installed hook went.

 It also has the attached lower chrome handle that is in very nice condition and free of any noticeable wear.

 The handle is rugged and allowed the user to hold the mic while speaking. It has a built in on / off switch that may or may not work? The short cable has an old Cannon male XLR end connector. I really don't know if the original crystal element still works or not but the mic was tested via cable and doesn't work so I would have to assume the element is dead. Again, I have no idea. 

 This would be an ideal restoration project because of it's pristine condition but there will be some extensive rewiring needed. If you are willing to spend a few hours doing so you'll have a great working mic but it's just not worth the time and labor for me to do so therefore I'm selling this as a display / prop mic only.

 The polished chrome body is free of any deep scratches, corrosion or dents. Very lite scratches and scuffs only. I would rate the cosmetic condition a very conservative 8 out of 1 - 10.

 Will make a great paper weight as well. Just a very cool older D-104 model all around.

 A very nice piece that will draw attention anywhere it's shown. If you demand a D-104 that few others have then this is your girl.

 As with all my vintage microphones for sale...