Of all disc-type music boxes made at the turn of the 20th century, one of the most desirable and of the finest quality today is the Mira. Made in St. Croix by Mermod Frères (Mermod Brothers), the Mira was introduced in 1903. The 18.5-inch disc is the largest size made by the firm. Today, perhaps 100 or so 18.5-inch Mira music boxes exist and are highly prized by collectors. Of these only a handful have a phonograph attachment, designating this as the Miraphone model, which permits 78 rpm records to be played if desired. For a fine home this was a high quality music box and a fine phonograph in a single unit. Competitors to this model included the Reginaphone line of the Regina Music Box Co. and the Polygraphon by the Polyphon Musikwerke.

This handsome Miraphone was sold new in New York City by Jacot & Son, the music house located on Union Square. Advertised as "unequaled for sweetness, harmony and volume of tone," it has both a disc and horn, as noted, and is in a beautiful inlaid mahogany case with storage cabinet with two dozen discs. It remains in excellent original condition with correct, original decals. Here indeed is a showpiece of the highest order!

Reference: The Encyclopedia of Automatic Musical Instruments by Q. David Bowers (pg. 124 and 128). 32x61x32 inches.