Magnatone Varsity Guitar Amp Model M-197-3-V Clean Original Working Circa-1948-1950-Grey MOTS

• 1948-1950 Magnatone Varsity serial number 3302 in beautiful original condition, recently serviced and working perfectly, changed AC cable to modern 3 prong, tubes appear to be old.
• Technical & Cosmetic Specifications
• Tube Layout: A classic 3-tube configuration featuring one 6SJ7 preamp tube, one 6V6 power tube, and a 5Y3 rectifier tube. It outputs approximately 5 to 10 watts of power and breaks up beautifully at higher volumes, very similarly to a Fender Champ. The Magnatone Model M-197-3-V "Varsity" tube amplifier in Grey MOTS (Mother of Toilet Seat/Pearloid finish) was manufactured between 1947 and 1952. In pristine, completely original "perfect" condition, its current market value ranges between $600 and $850, with exceptional collector-grade examples or complete matching lap steel sets occasionally fetching up to $1,000.
• Speaker: Loaded with a single 8-inch speaker.
• Aesthetics: Styled with an Art Deco metal badge at the bottom, an upper brand decal, and a distinctively textured grey pearloid plastic finish.
• Production Year: The M-197-3-V Varsity model was built during Magnatone’s "golden age" in Los Angeles, California. While the model spanned a 5-year run, individual units are often pinpointed closer to 1948–1950 based on transformer codes or handwritten internal factory stamps. You can shop with complete confidence that your item will be described accurately as Vintage Gear America's vast experience has culminated in great expertise allowing for the best purchasing experience. We ship worldwide UPS, USPS and FedEx always implementing new shipping materials and careful professional packing. We would like to thank you in advance for your patronage and cooperation.
• The "3302" Designation: This likely represents the specific production serial number stamped on the chassis or rear metal tag of your unit.
• The Finish: The "Grey MOTS" finish refers to a swirly, pearloid plastic wrap (affectionately known in vintage circles as Mother of Toilet Seat). These were frequently sold as a matching package alongside a Magnatone companion lap steel guitar.
• Specifications: It is a 5-to-6 watt single-channel tube amplifier pushing an 8-inch speaker. The typical tube lineup consists of a 6SJ7 preamp tube, a 6V6 power tube, and a 5Y3 rectifier tube.

John Russell Nelson owner

Vintage Gear America