Item K/PP107/11/1/11 - Universal telegraph transmitter, [1863-1867]

Wheatstone’s Universal telegraph developed from his ABC telegraph, originally patented in 1840 with a new patent in 1858. Using a step by step mechanism, the dial is rotated to the required character which operates ‘make and break’ contacts beneath the dial and the handle turned to send current impulses down the line to the receiver. A large wooden base houses the ‘communicator’ with a large alphabetic and numeric brass and ivory dial and operated by an ivory handle. Inscribed ‘Universal Private Telegraph Company, Incorporated 1861. C. Wheatstone invt. 1840, new patent 1858’.