WW2 U.S. Signal Corps BC-1000A Backpack Radio Receiver and Transmitter – Dated 1944 & a Matching Set of Walkie-Talkies

SKU: US SIGNAL CORP BC-1000-A BACKPACK RADIO SET

Original/Reproduction: Original

Availability: In-Stock

Manufacturer: Galvin MFG Co.

Date Manufactured: 1944

Radio Model: BC-1000A

Radio Serial Number: 1150

Walkie-Talkie Model: SCR-536

Walkie-Talkie Serial Numbers: 1535, 1110

Size / Dimensions:

Materials / Construction: Compact steel case with waterproof seal, canvas shoulder harness, whip antenna, and handset

Weight: Approximately 35 pounds with batteries

Condition: 97%/Excellent

Price: $1,200.00

Seller Type: WW2C

Seller ID: JMW

Seller Code: DG-500

Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.

 

Description

This is an exceptional and historically significant communication set from World War II: an original U.S. Signal Corps BC-1000 Radio Receiver and Transmitter, backpack-mounted and dated 1944, accompanied by a matching pair of walkie-talkies (SCR-536 “handie-talkies”), forming a complete battlefield communication kit used by U.S. forces in Europe and the Pacific. This set was manufactured by Galvin MFG Co. in Chicago Illinois.

This complete set is in excellent original condition, showing light wear consistent with service use. The BC-1000 retains its original canvas harness, data plate, and handset. Both walkie-talkies are complete with intact antennae, original finish, and internal components (untested for functionality). The set presents beautifully for display or museum exhibition.

BC-1000A Backpack Radio Overview

• Model: BC-1000 (SCR-300)
• Manufacturer: Marked Galvin MFG Co. “SIGNAL CORPS U.S. ARMY,” with 1944 production date stamped on the data plate
• Frequency Range: 40 to 48 MHz FM (VHF)
• Tuning: Crystal-controlled with manual channel selector
• Power Source: Battery operated (BA-70 or BA-80 type)
• Weight: Approximately 35 pounds with batteries
• Design: Compact steel case with waterproof seal, canvas shoulder harness, whip antenna, and handset
• Function: First widely used FM backpack radio system; provided clear short-range squad/platoon-level communication without the interference common in AM systems
• Usage: Issued to infantry and paratroopers, including the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions during D-Day and Operation Market Garden

Matching WWII Walkie-Talkie Set (SCR-536)

• Model: SCR-536
• Also Known As: “Handie-Talkie”
• Type: Portable AM transceiver
• Frequency: 3.5 to 6.0 MHz (crystal controlled)
• Power Source: BA-37 or BA-38 battery pack
• Range: Up to 1 mile under optimal conditions
• Features: Telescoping antenna, push-to-talk operation
• Construction: Rugged Bakelite body with integrated speaker/microphone
• Role: Used for point-to-point communication between units and as a supplement to the BC-1000 for field coordination

 

Historical Significance

The BC-1000 and SCR-536 walkie-talkies represent a turning point in battlefield communication, giving American forces a tactical edge through reliable and mobile radio contact. These devices were crucial during the Normandy invasion, Ardennes Offensive, and Pacific campaigns, streamlining real-time coordination under combat conditions.

A rare, museum-grade set that exemplifies the technological innovations of the U.S. Signal Corps during WWII—an ideal addition to any military communications collection or WWII field gear display.