Cabinet-style cylinder music box / disc music box (likely Regina or similar)
Estimated Value
$800-$2,500
This appears to be a large cabinet music box housed in a wooden case, likely a cylinder or disc music box from the late 19th or early 20th century. The interior lid bears a printed label reading 'First Music Box Manufactured in the United States,' which suggests a promotional or historical label associated with an American maker or retailer. The visible mechanism includes a comb and pinned cylinder or related drive assembly, with a hand crank or control lever visible at the front right. The cabinet has decorative trim and a substantial furniture-like form, typical of high-quality parlor music boxes intended for home display. The overall style and construction suggest a premium mechanical music instrument rather than a later novelty item.
Era
Late Victorian to Edwardian Era, approximately 1890s-1910s
Origin
United States
Material
Mahogany or walnut veneer cabinet, brass/steel mechanism, felt or paper label
Condition
Fair to Good; cabinet shows visible age, surface wear, and darkening consistent with use and storage. Interior mechanism appears present, but operational condition cannot be confirmed from the image. Label is faded and partially legible.
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 24-30 inches wide, 18-24 inches deep, and 18-24 inches tall
Weight
Heavy
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium; the cabinet and mechanism appear period-appropriate, but the exact maker, model, and originality of labels/parts cannot be verified from the photo alone.
Provenance
Likely American manufacture, possibly by Regina Music Box Company or a related U.S. distributor/retailer. The label suggests a marketing claim tied to American music box production, but the exact maker cannot be confirmed from the image alone.
Historical Significance
Cabinet music boxes were luxury entertainment objects in the late Victorian and Edwardian periods and represent the height of mechanical home music before phonographs became dominant. American-made examples are historically notable because most early music box production was centered in Europe, especially Switzerland.
Restoration Notes
- •Possible surface refinishing or cleaning of cabinet finish cannot be ruled out
- •No obvious major structural repairs visible in the image
- •Operational restoration status unknown
This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.
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