Circumpolar Amateur Radio Operator Map
American: c. 1940s-1950s
Printed paper on Masonite, as issued
30.25 inches diameter
$600
Circumpolar Amateur Radio Operator Map
Cartographic Curiosity
Cartographic Curiosity
Map
Detail
Unusual circumpolar map for amateur radio operators (also known as ham radio), showing the boundaries for regional prefixes used in the call signs assigned to each radio operator who receives a license, e.g., XE for Mexico. Land masses are colored tan, oceans in blue. The map is centered on New York City, signified by a dot and labeled “Harrison” in large, boldface type. Concentric circles surround the dot at 1000 “SM” intervals. The map is also divided into 40 numbered irregularly shaped regions.
“Harrison” possibly refers to the Harrison Radio Corporation in New York City, a vendor of ham radio communications equipment, which may have published the map to promote the company or used it as store decoration.
Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall light toning, soiling, wear. Few minor scattered stains and abrasions, unobtrusive.