Columbia Grafonola Phonograph

Q: I have an antique phonograph that belonged to my grandparents. It has the words “Columbia Grafonola” above a circle with two notes in it and the words “Made in U.S.A., Type E.2” below. It still works and I get a kick out of winding it up and playing one of my grandmother’s old records. I would like to know how much it is worth.

A: The Columbia Phonograph Co. was established in New York in 1889. The president of the company bought American Graphophone Co. in 1893. American Graphophone Co. manufactured phonographs in Bridgeport, Conn., and Columbia sold them. The Grafonola was introduced in 1907. The trademark with the notes and the name “Columbia” above it was first used in 1923. The Columbia wasn’t as popular as some other brands and collectors are not as eager to own the old ones. Value: $100-$300.