Large musical boxes have been in existence since the 1820's. For the music box and antique collector, there are four large musical boxes which are particularly unique and "a must have" for any collection. They are the mandolin music box, piccolo music box, orchestra music box, and the rare revolver music box.

Mandolin Music Boxes

Mandolin music boxes are strung with four strings, which are the same as those of a violin. The resulting sound is one of romance with the notes drifting softly in the air. These music boxes typically are not difficult to find since a large number were made. Finding a music box such as this would be a special addition to the music box and antique collector of inlaid music boxes, ballerina music boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and more.

Piccolo Music Box

While piccolo music boxes are an octave higher than most music boxes, if the music box and antique collector can withstand its rather shrill notes, it too can be a collectors jewel. Since some of these music boxes were made with a harmony arrangement that accompanied the high pitched notes, the sound becomes much more pleasing.

Orchestra Music Box

This music box is unique and has everything. The music box is an interchangeable one with bells, drums, and organ. Some even have dancing dolls inside which move in time to the music. It would be a fun music box to have for any antique or music box collector.

Revolver Music Box

The revolver music box is quite rare. It is much more unique and impressive than some of the ballerina music boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and wooden keepsake boxes seen today. David Tallis in ?Music Boxes: A Guide for Collectors states: "Perhaps the most impressive piece of machinery in the musical box field is the Revolver Music box. Invented by Amedee Paillard at St Croix in 1870, it consisted of a set of cylinders fixed on a rotating shaft so that any one could be brought into contact with the comb at time. There are three illustrations of revolver boxes in Nicole Graham Webb's book, one being a fine mandolin box by Nicole Freres. It has six cylinders, each playing six airs; a repertoire of 36 airs without table or drawers. However, they were so difficult to make that very few are to be found."

For the music box and antique collector, the mandolin music box, piccolo music box, orchestra music box, and revolver music box would be excellent collectible items. Why not add then to your collection today?

Copyright 2006 Monique Hawkins