[Hallicrafters] Extremely Rare/ Probably Unique Military Hallicrafters S-76 / USM-76 L@@K!

[Julian Bunn]

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

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/162/412142130_dace60cf1e_o.jpg

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.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/412142227_c0d187a76c_o.jpg

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.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/181/412142675_fe391c0531_o.jpg

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 ...