Name/Title
ToyEntry/Object ID
2017.FIC.002Description
Object was Found In Collection (FIC) with no associated documentation. Object appears to be a novelty trick toy. Measuring 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches by 3/4 inches thick - about the size of a deck of cards - this item is wrapped in a paper covered printed with black ink. Text states:
Voice-Tester
Rado Echo
Hear your voice come back to you
First - say "hello" - into the Echo speaker above
Then quickly press the button all the way in
The "speaker" is a circluar cut out in the paper measuring 1 1/4 inches in diameter which reveals a fabric with blue design.
The object shows some wear as it has som discoloration and staining on the speaker fabric, staining on front and back, and discoloaration throughout. Five staples on back of object have left rust stains/bleeds on the paper. Text is a little worn on front bottom left corner. The reported pin in the button is missing - broken off.
Description of object type below was researched online at https://www.etsy.com/listing/161424116/vintage-gag-prank-voice-tester-1930s.
(This is a fantastic piece of prank history! The Voice Tester was produced by Johnson and Smith in the 1930's. This little piece of trickery packs a sinister punch. So innocent in it's presentation this little box, the size of a deck of cards and labled "voice tester" "Rado Echo" claims that if you speak into the woven speaker cloth and then quickly press the little wooden button you will hear your voice back.....however, there was originally a pin hidden in button, intended to stick the finger of the unsuspecting victim! )Lexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Primary Object Term
ToyNomenclature Class
ToysNomenclature Category
Category 09: Recreational ObjectsDimensions
Height
3-1/2 inWidth
2-1/2 inDepth
3/4 in
