
Hallicrafters S-40A General Coverage Receiver
This is a vintage Hallicrafters S-40A shortwave communications receiver, manufactured by The Hallicrafters Co. of Chicago, dating from the mid-to-late 1940s (post-WWII era). The unit features a steel cabinet with a dark grey/black textured 'wrinkle' finish. A distinctive semi-circular green-illuminated tuning dial dominates the left side, complemented by a smaller rectangular bandspread window in the center. To the right, a built-in speaker is protected by a rectangular mesh grille featuring the iconic stylized 'h' logo in a circular badge. The control panel includes multiple vintage-style fluted bakelite knobs for tuning, sensitivity, volume, and band selection, along with several toggle switches for AGC, noise limiting, and BFO settings. The model number 'S-40A' is visible in the top left corner. Conditionwise, the unit shows significant signs of age and neglect, including a thick layer of surface dust, possible light corrosion on the metal faceplate, and some discoloration to the speaker fabric. There is a visible scuff on the main tuning dial cover. The chassis appears intact, though the rubber-insulated wiring and internal paper capacitors from this 1940s period likely require restoration for safe operation. This model represents a classic example of amateur radio hobbyist equipment from the Golden Age of Radio.
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Estimated Value
$100 - $160
Basic Information
Category
Vintage Electronics / Amateur Radio Equipment
Appraised On
March 12, 2026
Estimated Value
$100 - $160
Item Description
This is a vintage Hallicrafters S-40A shortwave communications receiver, manufactured by The Hallicrafters Co. of Chicago, dating from the mid-to-late 1940s (post-WWII era). The unit features a steel cabinet with a dark grey/black textured 'wrinkle' finish. A distinctive semi-circular green-illuminated tuning dial dominates the left side, complemented by a smaller rectangular bandspread window in the center. To the right, a built-in speaker is protected by a rectangular mesh grille featuring the iconic stylized 'h' logo in a circular badge. The control panel includes multiple vintage-style fluted bakelite knobs for tuning, sensitivity, volume, and band selection, along with several toggle switches for AGC, noise limiting, and BFO settings. The model number 'S-40A' is visible in the top left corner. Conditionwise, the unit shows significant signs of age and neglect, including a thick layer of surface dust, possible light corrosion on the metal faceplate, and some discoloration to the speaker fabric. There is a visible scuff on the main tuning dial cover. The chassis appears intact, though the rubber-insulated wiring and internal paper capacitors from this 1940s period likely require restoration for safe operation. This model represents a classic example of amateur radio hobbyist equipment from the Golden Age of Radio.
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