[Autophone]

Oak case (14 x 9 x 5 in.), with original hardware, and brass number placard (179); some oxidation to metal components, general wear commensurate with age and use. 

Ex collection Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum, Milan, Ohio 

Oak case (14 x 9 x 5 in.), with original hardware, and brass number placard (179); some oxidation to metal components, general wear commensurate with age and use.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"MY GOD! IT TALKS!" — AN EARLY TWENTIETH-CENTURY COUCH PHONE, DEACCESSIONED FROM THE THOMAS EDISON BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM.

Edison's greatest contribution to the development of the telephone — the carbon microphone — was completed in conjunction with his work with Western Union, and was ultimately the cause of a legal battle between the company and American Bell in 1877-78. As part of the settlement Western Union sold all their patents, including the rights to the Edison patent, to American Bell, which would go on to become the world's largest telephone company. 

While Alexander Graham Bell is often credited for inventing the telephone, it was Thomas Edison who famously suggested using the word "hello" as a greeting — a far cry from Bell's resoundingly naval suggestion, "Ahoy."