Violano Virtuoso by Mills Novelty Company

Designated by the U.S. Government as One of the “Eight Greatest Inventions of the Decade” (1910-1920), the Violano Virtuoso artfully blends music with technology.

The maker, Mills Novelty Company of Chicago Ill., became best known for manufacturing coin-operated machines, including slot machines, vending machines and jukeboxes. Between 1905 and 1930, their products also included the Violano Virtuoso.

This marvelous music machine, housed in a mahogany cabinet, features both a violin and a keyboard-less piano. They play simultaneously and automatically. An electric motor and electromagnets power the instruments. The Violano uses perforated paper rolls to play songs, much like a player piano. It uses a coin-op slot to operate.

This particular model also incorporates a “Midi System” that interfaces with the original mechanisms. It permits a large program of music to be played via wifi from your mobile device.

This Violano has undergone full restoration and comes with a one year warranty.

64 1/4″ high x 43″ wide x 31″ deep

SOLD

Circa 1920