Lot # 37 - (Update) Vintage Hallicrafters Model S-85 Communications Receiver

Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Start Date/Time: 27-Oct-2025 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 03-Nov-2025 7:36:00 PM
Current bid:

$73.00

Highest bidder:

Jkdrummer

Auction has ended

Description :

Up for auction is a magnificent piece of ham radio history: the Hallicrafters Model S-85, a 1954 icon revered by shortwave and amateur radio operators. With its rugged build and timeless styling, this unit offers both aesthetic charm and functional nostalgia. Whether destined for a shelf or the airwaves, it’s ready to tune into a new chapter.

The unit may require an external antenna for use and an external antenna is not included. The unit powers on. The speaker is functional but going through a frequency sweep yields nothing but static (which could be due to the location of testing or because the unit lacks a functional antenna. Unit is sold as is and may require service.


Technical Features

  • Coverage: 538 kHz to 34 MHz (AM, CW, standard broadcast, shortwave, amateur bands)

  • Circuit: 7-tube superheterodyne

  • Speaker: Built-in Alnico V

  • Controls: Full-range tone, sensitivity, AVC, receive-standby switch

  • Extras: Automatic noise limiter, front panel headphone jack

Collector Appeal

  • Condition: Remarkably preserved for its age. bandspread knob is missing a fragment and it is missing. This does not affect functionality. 

  • Historical Significance: A beloved “radioman’s radio” from the golden age of ham radio

  • Use Case: Ideal for collectors, restorers, or vintage radio enthusiasts


Dimensions : 19 in L x 10 in W x 10 in H

Auction History

Highest bidder is Jkdrummer

Date Bid User
03-Nov-2025 7:28:15 PM $73.00 Jkdrummer
03-Nov-2025 7:28:15 PM $72.00 98023
03-Nov-2025 7:21:38 PM $69.00 Jkdrummer
03-Nov-2025 7:21:38 PM $68.00 98023
03-Nov-2025 7:21:29 PM $63.00 Jkdrummer
03-Nov-2025 7:21:29 PM $62.00 98023
03-Nov-2025 5:14:43 PM $52.00 Jkdrummer
03-Nov-2025 5:14:43 PM $51.00 UMoon
03-Nov-2025 5:14:30 PM $47.00 Jkdrummer
03-Nov-2025 5:14:30 PM $46.00 UMoon
03-Nov-2025 3:10:47 PM $36.00 Jkdrummer
28-Oct-2025 12:02:42 PM $11.00 UMoon
28-Oct-2025 12:02:42 PM $10.00 bears_mom
27-Oct-2025 11:13:56 PM $6.00 UMoon
27-Oct-2025 7:21:18 AM $5.00 Mkpow1988

PAYMENT DETAILS

Placing a bid is an agreement to purchase. If you win, you must pick up your item(s). If you default on your purchase, your bidding privileges will be revoked permanently. Do not bid if you do not plan to purchase.If you bid, you MUST be available/arrange for pick-up of purchases on the pick-up date unless you have made prior shipping arrangements. Bring necessary tools and help for picking up large items. Loading assistance is NOT available. Some items may be located on a 2nd floor, out building.

Invoices are emailed to winning bidders once the sale has completely closed.Full payment must be made by 8:00 p.m. the day after auction closes. If total payment is not received before the pick-up date & time, items will be forfeited, and bidding privileges revoked.

Pick-up information will be on the invoice e-mailed after the auction closes.All items not picked up during the designated times will be considered abandoned and may be donated or resold. When possible, and at our sole discretion, an alternate pick-up time may be arranged. If this is possible, an appropriate fee will be charged. 

A 10% Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax are added to the winning bid amount when invoiced. Sales tax is waived for licensed re-sellers.

We make every effort to describe lot items as accurately as possible. Expect normal signs of wear associated with antiques, vintage, and used items. We do not list every flaw. All items are sold AS IS WHERE IS. No refunds or returns. Sound Estate Company does not guarantee the working order of any clock, watch, electronic or mechanical device. Dimensions given may be approximate.

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