Sonora Radio Value Guide

Vintage Emerson Model 512 Tabletop AM Tube Radio (Parts ...
Sonora Radio
Estimated Value
$75 – $85
Period
1940-1946
Origin
United States
Materials
Wood, glass, metal, vacuum tubes
Category
Sonora radio

The Sonora Radio & Television Corp. was a hallmark of American craftsmanship during the golden age of radio, producing sets that served as the focal point of family life. This 1940-1946 tabletop model is highly collectible for its classic wooden cabinet design and the warm aesthetic of its illuminated glass dial.

What Is Sonora Radio Worth?

The typical price range for Sonora Radio is $75 - $85 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • The physical condition of the wooden cabinet, including the original finish and lack of cracks or water damage.
  • Functional status of the vacuum tubes and the ability of the AM receiver to pull in signals.
  • The clarity and integrity of the illuminated glass dial, as replacements are difficult to source.
  • Completeness of original parts, including the period-correct knobs and rear backing plate.

How to Identify Sonora Radio?

  • Check for the Sonora Radio & Television Corp. branding on the glass dial or the rear chassis plate.
  • Verify the presence of the original multi-tube AM circuit and internal vacuum tube components.
  • Examine the wooden cabinet for the specific tabletop dimensions and craftsmanship characteristic of the 1940s era.
  • Look for the distinctive illuminated glass dial which was a signature feature of Sonora's mid-century sophisticated designs.

History of Sonora Radio

Sonora Radio & Television Corp. was a prominent American radio manufacturer during the golden age of radio. Known for their quality craftsmanship and distinctive designs, Sonora radios were a common fixture in American homes, providing entertainment and news through the airwaves. This particular model likely represents the era when home radios were becoming more sophisticated and a focal point of family life.

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