Hallicrafters S-76 / USM-76 Military Receiver

Here's a very nice example of the rare, if not unique, Hallicrafters military version of the S-76, the USM-76.

Made for the Navy, this receiver features the antenna trim control not found on the civilian version, and the power indicator bulb beneath the large S-meter (so those of us over 40 can see it). Note also the rugged handles that the Hallicrafters factory fitted for moving the unit in and out of the tight shelves typically found on boats, submarines et cetera.

This unit is in remarkable condition considering its age. It still has the original tube layout diagram under the hinged hood, although it's a little yellowed and curly around the edges. Note also the original "Navy Department Bureau of Ships" identification plate, affixed to the front panel. The graphics designers had to move the "Bandspread" and "Tuning" legends *beneath* the corresponding knobs to accommodate it. Quite a feat in those days! The only thing missing on this museum piece is the BFO Pitch Control, which I have but is damaged - I purchased the set from an old seafarer who had used it during his Navy days and had smuggled it off a frigate when he was de-mobbed, used  it for years to work thousands of QSLs, but decided to dispose of it recently due to ill health: unfortunately he packed it poorly for shipment to me.

This receiver is so rare it doesn't appear in Chuck Dachis' book. Maybe Chuck would like to swap it for one of his SX-88s ...