Marilyn : Mid-Century Modern
Marilyn Presents
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Presentation Script
Ladies and gentlemen, what we have here is a fantastic slice of Americana: an authentic Rock-Ola tabletop jukebox. This compact marvel, a true icon of mid-century entertainment, once brought the joy of music to diners, parlors, and homes across the nation. This particular piece hails from the 1960s, a vibrant era when stereo sound was revolutionizing the music experience. Rock-Ola, a titan in the jukebox industry, crafted these machines with robust metal casings, gleaming chrome accents, and clear plastic panels, designed for durability and visual appeal. The visible coin slot and selection mechanism, along with the 'STEREO' designation, are hallmarks of its period and function. Now, let's talk condition. This jukebox bears the undeniable marks of its journey. We see extensive rust, corrosion, and dirt, particularly on the metal surfaces and grilles. The power cables are cut, indicating it's currently non-functional and likely requires significant internal restoration. These signs of wear, however, are not flaws in its authenticity, but rather a testament to its long and active life. Based on the visible branding and construction, I'm confident this is a genuine 1960s Rock-Ola. In its current, unrestored state, I'd place an auction estimate between $50 and $200. It's a project, yes, but one with a rich history and the potential to sing again!
Item Report
American Mid-Century Period Rock-Ola Tabletop Jukebox
By: Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corporation
Style: Mid-Century Modern
Origin: United States
Materials: Metal (steel, chrome-plated), plastic, glass, electronic components
Age: Circa 1960s
Condition: Poor (heavy rust, corrosion, dirt, non-functional, cut power cables, likely missing internal components)
Value: Authentic (as-is, unrestored): $50 - $200; Reproduction: N/A (this is an authentic period piece)
Maker's Marks / Writing: ROCK-OLA, STEREO, MAKE SELECTION FOR, VOLUME, PRICE SINGLES LP ALBUMS QUARTER
Date: 2026-06-30 11:26:50.611889
Description:
A vintage coin-operated tabletop jukebox by Rock-Ola, featuring a metal casing with chrome accents, plastic song selection panels, and 'STEREO' branding. It displays a selection of records and includes a central selection knob and volume controls. The piece is heavily weathered and shows significant signs of age and exposure.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is an authentic Rock-Ola tabletop jukebox from the 1960s, a classic piece of American entertainment history. While its current condition is very poor, requiring extensive restoration, it retains its original components and branding, making it a viable project for a collector or restorer. The later song cards indicate it was in use for an extended period.
Individual Images:
- whole jukebox front view
- detail of song selection
- top of jukebox
- detail of controls
- detail of lower left corner
- detail of lower right corner
- detail of interior base
- side view jukebox
- back of jukebox
- detail of power cables
- top rear of jukebox
- side view with ruler
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Poor (heavy rust, corrosion, dirt, non-functional, cut power cables, likely missing internal components)
Identification Score: 100%
The item is clearly identifiable as a Rock-Ola jukebox due to the prominent 'ROCK-OLA' branding and its distinctive design, consistent with tabletop models from the mid-20th century.
Authenticity Score: 95%
The branding, construction, materials, and design elements are all consistent with genuine Rock-Ola jukeboxes from the 1960s. The extensive wear and corrosion are indicative of its age and use, rather than fakery. The only deduction is for its non-functional state and missing internal components, which are not visible.
Image Memory Note
None None
Keywords
Jukebox, Rock-Ola, Vintage, Mid-Century Modern, American, Stereo, Coin-operated, Tabletop, 1960s, Collectible
Comparables (Similar Items)
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