Loyd's American Stereoscope

patented on April 15 1856, the Loyd's Stereoscope is one of the first viewers produced in the United States, different designs are known to exist, this later and unusual model has a rear hinged lid and reveals slots for twelve glass stereo slide views. The slides can be placed at various distances from the lens to achieve optimum focus and the slots can also be used to store the views. Externally covered in brown leather, on the hinged top lid impressed makers label, large turned eyepieces, comes with the extremely rare original diffusion screen made of etched glass. The leather lining is original and intact, although due to old age torn on several spots, the right eyepiece is cracked otherwise the viewer is in good original condition. A significant and important piece. Ex-Naylor collection.