Gem Model 44 Carbon Hearing Aid
The Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid was manufactured by The Gem
Ear Phone Co. of New York, NY sometime around 1935.
The microphone was 2⅝" in diameter and 1" thick.
The case measured 7˝" by 3" by 2⅞" high. The whole unit, including
case and battery weighed 1 lb, 6 oz.
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Front view of the microphone of the Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid. The
microphone grill was in the shape of a 6-pointed star.
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Rear view of the microphone of the Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid
showing the volume control (black thumb wheel in center). Notice the
circle cut out at the 1 o'clock position showing the volume level (1 in
this case). Volume ranged from 1 to 9. To the right of the volume
control is a hole for threading a cord through so you could hang the
microphone around your neck if so desired.
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Side view of the microphone showing the raised black volume control
wheel. It had a serrated edge for ease of turning.
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The Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid microphone and battery cable plug.
The pins are of slightly different size. This difference in pin sizes
ensured the correct polarity.
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One the other "end" of the Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid microphone
there was the earphone cord jack and plug. The difference in pin sizes
ensured the correct polarity.
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Front view of the earphone for the Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid.
The earphone measured 2" in diameter by 9/16" thick.
The earphone was held in place by a headband (missing).
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Rear view of the Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid earphone showing the
on-off switch (top) and model number (bottom).
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This hearing aid used a
Gem 1A 3-volt battery (right). The battery cable plug (left) is
shown beside the matching terminals on the battery.
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The Gem Model 44 carbon hearing aid in its carrying case.
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Inside the lid of the carrying case it reads "The Gem Earphone Co.,
New York". |
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The front of the carrying case showing the the opening for the
microphone grill. This hearing aid could be used as a table-top model
with the microphone mounted in the case as shown, or worn on the body
and just using the case for storing and carrying it. The case was
finished in black leatherette. |
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The back of the carrying case showing the snap fastener to hold the case
closed.
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