Stay updated, sign up for our free newsletter to receive useful tips
Full Name Email Id
Ways to Determine Antique Radio Prices and their Values
The value of an antique radio depends on its operational state, the condition of the cabinet, and the rarity of the make and model. If you are interested in a functional set, ask
the current owner to plug it in and allow you to tune in a station. Examine the condition of the cord and plug for wear and nicks that could expose the wires. All of these things are repairable but they are negotiating points as you and the seller work to establish a price.
An antique radio can go as low as $65 and as high as $150 or more. If you live in a larger city, local radio clubs occasionally host an annual antique radio sale. You can also visit antique stores and flea markets as well as browse through online auctions. (If you go this route, be sure you are confident in your ability to access the value of a piece and determine if the antique radio prices you see are fair for the quality of item offered.)
Benefits Of An Antique Radio
Since an antique radio can't compete in sound quality and features with a modern-day radio, what's the attraction? Basically, aesthetics. Many people simply like the look of an old radio and find listening to it in a dimly lit room has a kind of "time machine" effect,
Rate this Article
Excellent
Good
Average
Bad
Terrible
Current Rating
taking them back to evenings in the 1940s when the radio brought their grandparents news of the war as well as music and comedy programs. The fact that there are radio stations that play the old music and even the old news broadcasts can greatly enhance this effect.
Safety Tips For Antique Radios
Antique radios weren't made with the same materials that go into modern sets and they don't come with the same safety measures. Touching a vacuum tube can be fatal while touching a microchip won't harm you at all. Unless you know what you're doing, don't try to maintain your own vintage radio equipment. Often time special tools are required to do the job right and the changes are much greater that you will harm the radio than actually repair it.
If you decide to have a look at the inside of the radio always unplug the set. If the radio isn't working, have a look at the condition of the wires and tubes and the knob mechanism. At the very least you may be able to describe to a qualified repa irman what you think is wrong with the set. Always put safety first and remember that you are working on an old piece of equipment that could be unpredictable even when it was new.
If you're interested in buying an antique radio start by researching the genre, learning a bit about antique radio appraisal and even looking into antique radio restoration so you'll know what expense will be entailed to get one of your purchases reconditioned. Antique radio parts are fairly plentiful so almost anything you might buy can be put back in working order by someone who understands how to do antique radio repair work. Check antique radio prices against guidelines for quality appraisal to make sure you're getting a good piece and then sit back and enjoy the vintage sound of your new old radio.
Excellent
Good
Average
Bad
Terrible
