The M209-A was a cryptographic device made by the L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc., New Milford, Connecticut.
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Description
Code Converter M-209-A (Cipher) Device – Case & Accessories. The M209-A was a cryptographic device made by the L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc., New Milford, Connecticut.
This lot consists of the following:
- M209-A Converter.
- TM 11-380, Converter M-209 Manual in original envelope.
- P5321 “Xcelite” screwdriver, carried in canvas storage bag.
- 3 tools from inside lid of the converter ; small screwdriver, 1 oiler (tube) with cover, 1 ink pad (tube) with cover (missing issue tweezers).
- Replacement tweezers found in front pocket of web carrier.
- Tape paper roll of gummed paper for printed messages.
- Green web canvas storage bag, stamped “M-209-B” on front pocket, with carrying straps (hand and shoulder).
- (not included) 4 paper retaining clips were issued with each M209.
The Converter M-209 is a cryptographic device issued by the Signal Corps for use in divisions and lower units, down to and including battalions. Its purpose is a compact, hand operated tape-printing device for rapid enciphering and deciphering of tactical messages. It was developed by the Hagelin Cryptographic Company, New Milford, Conn, and made by Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc., Syracuse, New York. (During the war, this machine was known by the Germans as AM-1 (American Machine #1).
Size of the converter is 7 1/4 x 5 7/16 x 3 1/2 inches, and weighs 6 pounds, and in case and accessories weighs approximately 7 1/4 pounds.
The machine did not require electricity, and text was entered letter by letter. The M209 was never considered totally secure, and by 1943 it was assumed that the Germans were able to break code within 4 hours, but due to the use of the converter for tactical use, most messages sent were meaningless after a couple of hours. These machines were first used by the U.S. Army during TORCH, the invasion of North Africa in November of 1943.
Christie’s Auction House sold one of these sets (with a telegraph key and message book) for $5625.00 in 2014.
Condition is in excellent condition showing light use only.
Additional information
| Weight | 9 lbs |
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