Transistor Radio Turns 50

The first transistor radio hit the consumer market on October 18, 1954. The Regency TR-1 featured four germanium transistors operating on a 22.5-volt battery that provided over twenty hours of life. Several colors were initially offered in the 3" x 5" x 1 1/4" plastic case: black, ivory, mandarin red, cloud gray, mahogany and olive green. Radio collectors covet the limited number of units with swirl colors. "Very chi-chi" fashion iridescent colors were offered later and rare clear plastic cases also were made. CLICK ON color palette to see 10 TR-1 choices. The unit weighed eleven ounces and cost $49.95.

See also the excellent site Transistorized! The History of the Invention of the Transistor