Select-A-Tenna Value Guide

The Select-A-Tenna is a classic mid-century AM radio accessory designed to passively boost signal strength without an external power source. Highly sought after by radio enthusiasts, these devices were essential for rural listeners in the 1940s and 1950s trying to pull in distant stations.

What Is Select-A-Tenna Worth?

The typical price range for Select-A-Tenna is $40 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the Bakelite housing, specifically looking for cracks, chips, or heat warping.
• Functionality of the internal copper induction coil and the smoothness of the tuning mechanism.
• Originality of the metal components and whether they show significant corrosion or oxidation.
• Presence of original mid-century packaging or instructional inserts which can push value toward the $50 range.

How to Identify Select-A-Tenna?

• Look for the distinctive circular housing made of dark brown or black Bakelite material.
• Verify the 'Select-A-Tenna' branding typically found on the center dial or base plate.
• Check for the internal copper wire induction coil which is visible through the casing gaps or during disassembly.
• Confirm the presence of the manual tuning knob used to match the frequency of the radio receiver.

History of Select-A-Tenna

The Select-A-Tenna was a popular accessory during the mid-20th century, a time when AM radio was a primary source of entertainment and information. Many homes struggled with clear reception, especially in rural areas or within buildings with structural interference. These passive devices, requiring no external power, were marketed as simple solutions to improve signal strength and clarity, allowing listeners to tune into distant stations with greater ease.