Victoreen CDV-717 Geiger Counter Value Guide

The Victoreen CDV-717 is a significant Cold War relic produced between 1959 and 1962 for the United States Civil Defense program. It is highly collectible due to its specialized design featuring a detachable bottom chamber for remote radiation monitoring during potential nuclear fallout events.

What affects the value of Victoreen CDV-717 Geiger Counter?

• Physical condition of the yellow paint, specifically the presence of scratches, rust, or battery leakage corrosion.
• Completeness of the kit, including the original box, manual, and the critical remote sensing cable.
• Operational status, though many are sold as display pieces due to the lack of high-level radiation sources for testing.
• The presence of the original 'CD' stampings and clear, legible decals on the exterior housing.

How to Identify Victoreen CDV-717 Geiger Counter?

• Look for the distinct yellow metal casing featuring the blue and white Civil Defense logo on the faceplate.
• Verify the model number CDV-717 and the Victoreen Instrument Co. manufacturer branding.
• Check for the presence of the 25-foot extension cable and the removable ion chamber located at the base of the unit.
• Inspect the meter face for the high-range scale reaching up to 500 Roentgens per hour.

History of Victoreen CDV-717 Geiger Counter

During the Cold War, the threat of nuclear attack led to widespread civil defense initiatives. The CDV-717 was a crucial instrument in these efforts, distributed to civil defense organizations and private citizens across the United States. Its robust design and ability to measure high levels of radiation made it an essential tool for monitoring fallout in the event of a nuclear incident.