1908, USA: Among the earliest automatic musical instruments was the unlikely self-playing harp. Like the Violano, it was perfected by an independent inventor, J.W. "Row'' Whitlock. Whitlock spent 6 years developing the automatic harp and the patent, issued on September 8, 1900, read as follows: "This invention relates to musical instruments which are automatic in their action, starting upon the introduction of a coin...and stopping automatically when the piece is finished.". In 1905 Wurlitzer established an agreement with Whitlock to sell the harps on an exclusive basis. The two firms signed a contract for 1000 harps, to be delivered in 3 years, at a rate of 35 per month. The last harp was produced in late 1910 or 1911. The harp contains sixty fingers (almost human in their operation) and produces a volume of soft, sweet music equal to several Italian harps played by hand. The face of the instrument is covered by large harp-shaped plate glass, showing the interior lit up by electric lights and the wonderful little fingers picking the strings. This feature gives the instrument an exceedingly attractive appearance. Approximately 1100 style harps were made, of which 4 are known to exist today. The change of case design to a Style B took place in 1906. About 400 Style B harps were made of which 7 are known to survive. CONSIDERATIONS: The oak case shows an earlier restoration, with the internal cabinet original with the original Wurlitzer decal. Celluloid tag with patents is intact, and the harp is complete. Most collectors know these instruments are temperamental, and although this one is playing, it may need new strings and a good tuning. Very rare and very desirable by collectors. Includes one music roll. From the collection Werner Straub. This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made. Condition: (Very Good). Dimensions: 40" x 27" x 77".