Lot 8712

Description

Extremely rare, final series, as indicated by the yellow plugboard. No rotary switch in the machine lid, the modified switch plate below with a patch cable instead of the rotary switch, the green notch ring (missing) mounted with simple screw fasteners in the wooden lid, simple attachment of the green notch ring to the machine lid by means of two punched metal tabs. A folding metal handle instead of a leather strap on the wooden case, as in naval four-rotor Enigmas, above which a matching numbered plaque. Nameplate bearing the serial number "19608", manufacturer's code "jla" (= Heimsoeth & Rinke, Berlin) and year "45". Only five other complete cipher machines with a yellow plugboard are known to exist. In all likelihood, the machines bearing the serial number 19xxx were upgraded in 1945 and then delivered with a new nameplate. Three matching-numbered encryption rotors (I, II and III) plus the reversal rotor of B type, all with a Bakelite hand wheel (the fixed contact plate cracked, however its function not affected) and metal rotor ring with the numbers 01 through 26. Below which, the matching-numbered stamp "19608" on the unpainted base plate. The keys in the standard QWERT sequence, the keys made of replacement material. The cabling complete with nine original cables. The integrated lamps were especially rebuilt for the Enigma with flat glass bulbs. On the inside of the lid is the label, the inspection mark WaA, the spare lamp panel (zinc cover) and two defective spare cables. The aluminium rotor core of the reversal rotor probably replaced. In terms of mechanical function, the cipher machine is in full working order; however, the electrical contacts require cleaning due to storage conditions. Maintenance/cleaning of the machine is recommended. Replicas of the green contrast pane and the battery are available. Exceptionally rare find. This machine is one of just six Enigmas of the final series documented around the world, in beautiful, functional condition. ATTENTION: if the lot remains within the EU, 19% VAT need to be added to the hammer price, plus the buyer's commission.

Condition: II Questions about the lot?