Consists of button-activated transmitter and dial receiver, with lever switches, lightening arrester, and two large binding posts mounted on table and two-foot treadle underneath to drive magneto that furnishes power for operation of the set. Marked on transmitter "JOHNSON & WHITTEMORE / BOSTON /PATENT APPLIED FOR" and "HALL'S PATENT / JUNE 11, 1867" on treadles. Partial seam separation on table top; otherwise appears complete and in overall very good condition. Manufactured under US Patent No. 130,555 issued to John B. Johnson and Harrison Whittemore August 27, 1872, for an "Improvement in Magneto Electric Dial Telegraphs," this machine was intended primarily for use on private party (business) lines. Its magneto power source obviated one of the greatest obstacles to the adoption of telegraph and other electrical devices by businesses at the time, the need to use of wet batteries to furnish power. An exceptionally rare and desirable piece. Lot includes framed reproduction of drawing from Johnson and Whittemore patent. From the Howard Hazelcorn collection.