TELEPHONE No. 154

This telephone is a Candlestick telephone used on long lines on C.B., CBS2, CBS3 and Magneto systems.  Also used on long private circuit wires and trunk local subscribers.

The switch hook consists of two contact sets, one with three contacts that all make together and the other is a changeover contact set.

Originally fitted with a Transmitter No. 2 but after 1932 the Transmitter No. 22 was fitted.

Requires local batteries and a Bellset with an induction coil.

In C.B. exchange areas a Bellset No. 21 would be used.

Early table telephones were connected to the internal wiring with a Strip, Flexible Cord Connection.  Click here for more information.

Superseded by Telephone No. 156.

Telephone includes (1928):-
2 x Cords, Instrument No. 116.
1 x Cord, Instrument No. 222.
1 x Cord, Instrument No. 422.
1 x Hook, Receiver F.
1 x Transmitter No. 2.
1 x Receiver, Bell No. 1A.

To be requisitioned separately as required :-
1 x Cord, Instrument No. 608 (see Diagram C.B.S. 599).
1 x Label No. 78.
1 x Strip, Flexible, Cord Connection, 4 or 6 terminal.

When fitted with a Transmitter No. 1, and used on Private Circuits, a Label No. 43B would be fitted between the speaking tube and the transmitter body.

The picture above shows the two styles of transmitter head which could be found on a Telephone No. 154.  To the left is the later style Bakelite 'Transmitter No. 22' which accepted the 'Transmitter Inset No. 10' which was superseded by the 'Transmitter Inset No. 13'.  The transmitter head to the right is the older style solid back 'Transmitter No. 1'.

Terminal Markings

See also the Telephone Efficiency Committees Report on Common Battery Area telephones.

Circuit diagram - N254.

Circuit diagram - CB 1333.

Click here for pictures of a Candlestick before refurbishment

Click here for Candlestick construction and how to dismantle the phone

Candlestick construction

Candlestick Manufacturing (Messrs Keitmann)

Collectors Information - what to look for

Last revised: September 24, 2025