Australian Post Office
Telephone No. 131MW

This magneto telephone was previously called the Commonwealth Ericsson No.1 but was later reclassified as the No. 131MW.  They were used mainly in country areas and on party lines.

Constructed of oak or walnut wood, with the brass components nickel plated.

An additional receiver can be wired into the telephone and this hangs on the hook in front of the writing shelf.

Made by Ericsson, their telephone AB 535.

See also British Ericsson No. 345.

Source: Substation Equipment Handbook 1951.

View inside the lower cover.
Above the generator, on the wood shelf, is the serial number
At the bottom of the telephone is a metal plate.  Two batteries would be fitted on this shelf

Additional receiver shown on hook

Last revised November 24, 2025

FM2