American Violano Virtuoso by Mills Novelty

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

The maker, Mills Novelty Company of Chicago Ill., became best known for the manufacture of coin-operated machines, including slot machines, vending machines, and jukeboxes. Between 1905 and 1930, their products also included the Violano Virtuoso. The Violano has proven to be delightfully entertaining and intriguing.

This marvelous music machine, housed in a beautiful Honduran mahogany cabinet, features both a violin and a keyboard-less piano. They play simultaneously and automatically, powered by an electric motor and electromagnets. The Violano was initially invented for coin operation and uses perforated paper rolls to play songs, much like a player piano.  Some models, such as this one, evolved to incorporate a “Midi System” that interfaces with the original mechanisms. It permits a large program of music to be played digitally via wifi from your mobile device.  Further, Mills Novelty is still in business today and offers thousands of digital tunes so you can create customized playlists.

Finally, this beautiful Violano has undergone a full restoration and carries a one-year warranty.

63 3/4″ Height  x 43 3/4″ Width x 31″ Depth

Circa 1920