This Northern Electric 20-AL candlestick telephone is presented exactly as it was received from the collection of the late David Charles.

First introduced in 1904, the Northern Electric No. 20 series marked an important step in early telephone design. These desk sets featured solid brass construction, reflecting the durability and craftsmanship of the era. Early examples were typically finished in nickel plate, while most units produced after 1910 were coated in the classic “Japan black” enamel that became synonymous with telephones of the period.

This example came out from storage after spending several decades boxed away in a basement.
It remains in original, unrestored condition, showing the wear expected from years of service and long-term storage.
A full refurbishment is planned at a later date to have it displayed in the oldtelephoneroom collection.