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WESTERN ELECTRIC 500-series Telephone Types Classic Rotary Telephones (Includes links to info on the 1500, 2500, 3500, Princess and Design Line series.) ©1997-2009 paulf.  All rights reserved. Before copying anything from this site, follow this link.

WE 532  WE 544

ON THIS PAGE:     SINGLE LINE PARTY LINE OTHER VARIATIONS KEYSETS CALL DIRECTORS AUTOMATIC DIALERS PANEL PHONES How To Use This Page
Table Key (& Reference Info)	Model Number Format	Case Marking	Component Evolution
500 Set Colors	G Handsets	When Was My Phone Built?	Contributors -- Many Thanks!

RELATED PAGES ON THIS SITE:           COLORS 500 SET DEVELOPEMNT BSPs
WE 300-SETS WE 1500-SETS WE 2500-SETS PRINCESS SETS DESIGN LINE SETS WE AUTOVON SETS

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Updated: 21 April 2009

The 500 series was introduced in 1949 and made by the Bell System until 1986.  Its design was licensed to ITT in 1951 and other manufacturers during the 50s, until it became the standard.  It continues to be made overseas to this day! With the later addition of TouchTone, it evolved into the 1500 (10-button keypad), 2500 (12-button keypad), and 3500 (16-button Autovon military keypad) with similar model numbers.

500-type Rotary	1500-type 10-button dial	2500-type 12-button dial	3500-type 16-button dial

Over the years, numerous variations were made with extra switches, knobs and internal components for special purposes.  Model numbers well above the 5xx range were ultimately used.  Western catalogs and technical documentation only show the models that were in production or service at the publication date.  To understand the full scope of models produced we must compile data from many years of documents.

This page was created as a casual attempt to answer the simple question,

"How many 500-series models did Western Electric make?"

The question was first posed to Antique Telephone Collectors Association (ATCA) and Telephone Collectors International (TCI) members, and other dealers and collectors in early 1997.   Following are the results to date (no claims are made as to accuracy or completeness).

~~ How to use this page ~~

>> Table Organization: Sorted by  model number for the rotary variations.
>> Use:  Search (usually Control-F in most browsers) for the last 3 digits of the model number of your set.
               Or Browse by category, using the links above.

Find the model number of your phone on the bottom plate. In this case, look up 500C or 500D. (This base code was shared by both models.) More on model numbers here. Vermillion ink or other codes stamped on the bottom may indicate that the phone was refurbished. Watch for changed parts.

Looking up the model number for your set should give you a brief description of the major features of the model, and a BSP (Bell System Practices) reference for the rotary set, if known.  When available, photos of some unique features are shown near the model number or linked from the chart entry.  If you don't find your model listed, try looking up the last 3 digits in the tables for other Western Electric models.  Often the major features were consistent among rotary and Touch Tone models.

The BSPs provide technical details and usually a wiring diagram.  BSPs are often found in the Station Service Manuals, Key Systems Service Manuals and Station Specialties Service Manuals published in the 1970s and early 80s.  BSPs or wiring diagrams for some common models are available on several internet sites including the ATCA and TCI club sites.  Several club members have scanned some popular BSPs and make them available on CD.
For more details on BSPs, click here.

You still need to check the internal components as many phones were refurbed and had internal components changed or removed.  For example, many phones marked 501D were converted from party line to single line (500D) by removing the 426A tube as party lines lost favor.  If done in a Bell System refurb facility, the code on the bottom was usually repainted or remarked.  Many independent shops or field mods were not remarked with the accurate model number.

Check out the table key for model numbering background and other reference details.

---

BASIC SINGLE LINE SETS WE500U

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
500	Earliest 500 sets were not marked with suffix codes.  500 and date were stamped in ink, usually along the front edge of the baseplate. w/ 425A net & amp; separate 311A equalizer.First production used C2A ringer, then C4A.	-	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58
500 A 500 B	Early single line w/ 425A net & amp; separate 311A equalizer. Model and date moved to a location near the ringer, near where the word “LOUD” was stamped. See Photo. Note: Bases were marked 500 A/B.  This is a manufacturing code, not the model number.  See the table key for details.	2,4,7,8,9	C38.595.1 C38.601 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-101 502-510-400  502-521-401
500 C 500 D	Later single line w/ 425 B or E net and varistors for equalization. (No separate equalizer needed.)	2,4,7,8,9	C38.603 502-501-101 502-510-401 502-521-402
500 E 500 F	Single line w/ plunger switch to avoid interference on extensions (or party lines). Lifting the left plunger activates talk and dial circuits. Cradle is marked, “LIFT PLUNGER TO DIAL OR TALK”. Replacing the handset resets the switches.  Replaces the 302AA/AC. See photos.	2,3,4,7,8,9	C32.535 C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-115 502-510-402 502-580-402
500 H	Single line w/ hooded dial lamp (GE46 bulb, 6-8v ac or dc supply, P17A120 lamp cap assembly [contact me if you have spares of this part!]), 425B network (or later 425E).  The light is only activated when the handset is offhook. Cannot be used as the tip party on message rate, automatic  ticketing, automatic message accounting or zone restriction services.  Replaced by the 500P and U for these services. Announced in 1954.	2,3,4,7,8,9	C32.535 C32.538 C38.595.00 C38.595.1 C38.607 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-115  502-510-403  502-580-404
500 J 500 K	Single line w/ 425A net w/o equalizer	2,3,7,8,9	C38.595.1 C38.609 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-101 502-510-404 502-521-403
500 L 500 M	Single line w/ A-lead control for 1A2. 4-conductor mounting cord and terminal strip installed below dial.  Originally used in applications where the ringer circuit had to be brought out through the munting cord.	2,7,8,9	C32.537 C38.595.1 C38.610 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-115 502-510-405 502-580-405
500 P	Single line w/ hooded dial lamp (GE46 bulb, 6-8v ac or dc supply, P17A120 lamp cap assembly [contact me if you have spares of this part!]), 425B network (or later 425E).  The light is only activated when the handset is offhook.  Replaced the 500H to overcome limitations of that set.  Compatible with all services supported by the 500D. (Available in 1955, MD 1976)	2,3,4,7,8,9	C32.535 C32.537 C38.595.00 C38.595.1 C38.611 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-115  502-510-406 502-510-410 502-580-406
500 R 500 S	Single line for speakerphones, including the 1A, 1A1, 3A and 4A. 10-conductor mounting cord, internal terminal strip, extra dial and switchhook contacts and separate ringer leads for speakerphone control.   See photos  (scroll to bottom of page.)	1,2,7,8,9	C38.595.1 C38.612 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-115  502-580-408
500 T	Early single line w/ 425A net, no equalizer, but terminal block for handset leads.  (Early version of 500 J/K?)  See Photo.	1	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58
500 U	Single line w/ hooded dial lamp (GE46 bulb, 6-8v ac or dc supply, P17A120 lamp cap assembly [contact me if you have spares of this part!]).  425B network (or later 425E). Similar to the 500P with the addition of a night light switch (584A key). When switched on, the night light glows dimly when handset is on hook and a full brilliance when off hook.  See Photo. (MD 1976)	2,4,7,9	C32.535 C32.537 C38.595.00 C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.613 502-501-115  502-510-408  502-580-409
500 W 500 Y	Single line w/ neon ringing/message waiting lamp for PBX	1,2,4,7,8,9	C38.614 502-501-115  502-580-411
500 AB	Single line for 2-wire or 4-wire circuits (no speakerphone).  Comes wired for 2-wire service butmay be converted at installation to 4-wire service.  Arranged for but not equipped with a KS-8109L2 Buzzer.  Intended for use in 1A1 and 1A2 Key Telephone Systems and 3B Speakerphone Systems, however it is intended for specially engineered lines.  Not for general telephone use. For touchtone model, see 2504 in "Other Variations" below.	6	502-510-411
500 AD	Single line for 4-wire circuits and 3-type speakerphones.  Arranged for 4-wire service and equipped with a switch hook arrangement which provides one spare transfer and two spare make contacts.  The spare make contacts may be used for such purposes as controlling external relays or applying idle line circuit terminations.  Arranged for but not equipped with a KS-8109L2 Buzzer.  Intended for use in 1A1 and 1A2 Key Telephone Systems and 3B Speakerphone Systems. For touchtone model, see 2504 in "Other Variations" below.	2,3,7,8,9	502-501-115 502-512-101 502-512-401 502-580-401
GA-51859 TA236/FT	Single line with Military markings on case: Signal Corps US Army, Telephone Set TA236/FT, Western Electric. (No Bell System markings.)	-	-

BASIC PARTY LINE SETS - 426A (or 425A 4-element) tube for 4-party selective ringing

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
501	Earliest 501 A/B sets were not marked with suffix codes. 501 and date were stamped in ink, usually along the front edge of the baseplate. w/ separate equalizer. First production used C3A ringer, then C4A.	-	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58
501 A 500 B	Early party line w/ separate equalizer	1,2,8,9	502-510-400 502-521-404
501 C 500 D	Later party line w/ varistors for equalization	2,8,9	C38.603 502-521-405 502-510-401
501 F	Party line w/ plunger switch to connect talk and dial circuits - to avoid interference with talking party.  Replaces the 306G. See photos.	2,7,8,9	C32.535 502-501-115 502-510-402  502-580-403
501 J 501 K	Party line w/ 425A net w/o equalizer	2,3,8,9	C38.609 502-521-406
501 P	Party line w/ dial lamp	2,4,7,8,9	C38.611 502-501-115  502-510-406  502-580-407
501 T	Early Party line w/ 425A net, no equalizer, but terminal block for handset leads.  (Early version of 501 J/K?)	-	C38.595.00 502-510-410
501 U	Party line w/ dial lamp and night light switch	2,3,7,8,9	C38.613 502-501-115  502-510-408  502-580-410

OTHER ROTARY VARIATIONS WE 532

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
502 A 502 B	Single line w/ extension set exclusion and A-lead control for 1A2	2,4,8,9	C38.628 502-515-100 502-515-400 502-531-401
503 B 503 C	Used with Data-Phone equipment, with exclusion key.	1	C38.620 502-501-120 503-516-100 503-516-401
2504 - - - 3504	The 2504 is equipped with a line switch which provides six transfer contacts and is arranged for two-wire service.  The set is convertible to four-wire service at installation.  35C3B TOUCH-TONE Dial, N1A Ringer, 425G Network, exclusion switch assembly operated by lifting the left plunger, card-operated line switch.  The set is arranged for mounting a KS-8109L1 Buzzer which is not furnished.  Intended solely for specially engineered lines. Not for general telephone use. The ringer adjustment is on the left side along the bottom edge -- just behind the handset cord hole. The 3504 is for the AUTOVON network.  Factory wired for 4-wire service.  66A3A 16-button dial, N1A Ringer, 425G Network,460A diode (polarity guard), 425D diode (surge protector), exclusion switch, G3AR handset.  The set is arranged for mounting a KS-8109L1 Buzzer which is not furnished.  Intended solely for specially engineered lines. Not for general telephone use. For similar 500 series sets, see 500AB and 500AD above.		529-225-102 - - - 502-532-107 502-532-437 Apparatus Catalog, 1970
507 A 507 B	Single line long loop w/ 419A diode, 425C net and 151C or 151F fixed gain amp See photos.	3,7	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.636 502-501-116 502-520-100  502-520-400
509 A 509 B	Party line long loop w/ 426A gas tube, 419A diode, 425C net and 151C or 151F fixed gain amp See photos.	3,7	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.636 502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-400
510 A 510 B	Two line w/ signal key, 4-conductor mounting cord	2,4,8,9	C38.595 C38.628 502-515-100 502-515-400 502-531-402 C38.595
510 E 510 F	Two line w/ signal key, 6-conductor mounting cord  See Photo. Also used on early PBX systems with the switch wired to provide “ground start” during power failures.	2,8,9	C38.595 C38.628 502-515-100 502-515-400 502-531-402 C38.595
511 A 511 B	Two line w/ extension set exclusion and signal key	2,4,8,9	C38.595 C38.628 502-515-100 502-515-400 502-531-403 C38.595
511 C 511 D	Two line w/ extension set exclusion, signal key and speakerphone	2,8,9	C38.595 C38.628 502-515-100 502-515-400 502-531-404
511 F	Two line w/ extension set exclusion, speakerphone and A-lead control for 1A2, spade tip cord	2,8,9	500-124-180 502-531-405
511 H	Two line w/ extension set exclusion, speakerphone and A-lead control for 1A2, D50 connector	2,8,9	502-515-100 502-531-405
511 X30A	Voice Coupling using 30A Voice Coupler. Provides 2-wire connection of customer-provided voice transmitting and/or receiving equipment to Bell lines, DC isolation and limits excessive line signal. Has a standard ¼” phone plug on the right side. Connection is made by operating the exclusion key.	-	502-501-901SW
512	With key for Secretarial exclusion  See Photo.	-	-
513 B	Early Data-Phone w/test key and lamp.  Mounting cord plugs into the J1D401F data set.  Exclusion key (left plunger) transfers set between voice and data modes.  Lamp illuminates when test mode is operating.	4	C38.595 C38.627 502-501-120 503-516-100 503-516-402
514 B	Single line with headset jack in back and headset mode/recall switch above right of dial.  Ringer loudness control on left side behind handset cord cutout. Message waiting lamp optional with D-17998 kit of parts.   See Photos. Available starting in 1965.	2,7,8,9	502-501-115 502-520-101 502-520-401 502-580-412
515 B	Two line w/ signal key and hold button, 6-conductor mounting cord	1,2,4,8	502-515-105 502-515-405 502-531-406
516 B	Single line w/ "make-busy" turnkey and indicator lamp (for PBX, 802A hotel)	2	-
520 A 520 B	Single line w/ industrial round wall enclosure - "explosion proof"  See photos	2,5	C38.595 502-415-100 502-415-203
522	“Elevator” phone. Mounted on a panel with the handset recessed.	-	-
525 A 525 B	Weatherproof housing for outdoor use, complete. Uses optional KS-8028 lock with skeleton key.  See photos	2,9	C38.821 502-560-100 502-560-201 502-560-400 502-580-437
526 A 526 B	Weatherproof housing for outdoor use, sold as components (different style than 525)	2,4,8,9	502-580-438
529 A 529 B	No network, 12 conductor cord for 101 and 102 key equipment	-	502-560-109
532 A 532 B	Single line w/ receiver amplification and volume control - for impaired hearing.  151A amplifier, 419A varistor, and P13A693 potentiometer. See Photo.	3,7	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.629 502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-402
533 A 533 B	Party line w/ receiver amplification and volume control - for impaired hearing. 151B amplifier, 419A varistor, and P13A693 potentiometer.	3,7	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.629 502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-402
535 A 535 B	Single line w/ receiver amplification and push to listen button (G2 or G5 handset) - for noisy locations. 151B amplifier, 419A varistor, P13A693 potentiometer, P-10C610 terminal block.	7	C38.595.1 C38.633 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-404
536 A 536 B	Single line w/ speech amplification – 151B amplifier, 419A varistor, P13A693 potentiometer, P-10C652 terminal block and 266A inductor.	3,7	C38.595.1 C38.635 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-406
54x	See Key Sets	-	-
552	Single line wall w/ exclusion	7	500-124-180
554 A 554 B	Single line wall. Announced in 1955 in black and ivory.   Modified 554 for party line use.	2,4,7,8,9	C38.637 502-501-101  502-521-410
554 F	Single line wall w/ plunger button for "flashing operator"	2,4,7,8,9	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 502-501-101  502-510-410  502-521-410
555 B	Two line w/ signal key and hold button	2,8,9	502-515-415 502-531-407
556 A 556 B	Party line wall	2,7,8,9	C38.595.1 Issue 1: 10/58 C38.637 502-501-101  502-510-410  502-521-411
557 A 557 B	Single line wall long loop w/ 419A diode, 425C net and 151C or 151F fixed gain amp	7	502-501-116 502-520-100 502-520-400
558 A 558 B	Two line wall w/ signal key. Above: Modified 558 with amplifier added.  Functions like the 532 desk set above.	2,4,8	C38.638 502-515-100 502-515-401 502-531-408 C38.595
558 C 558 D	Two line wall w/ signal key, exclusion and control leads	2,7,8,9	502-501-116  502-515-100 502-531-409 C38.595
558 F	Two line wall w/ signal key, control leads and A-lead control for 1A2. See photos	2,9	502-515-100 502-531-410
559 A 559 B	Party line wall long loop w/ 419A diode, 425C net and 151C or 151F fixed gain amp	7	502-520-100 502-520-400
56x	See Key_Sets	-	-
570	Large roadside "Emergency" or "Fire" set, manual only, Usually painted bright red or yellow	8,9	C38.813 502-550-100 502-580-455
575	See Key_Sets	-	-
581 A	Internals for customer-supplied housing and handset.  (Also used in design-line phones.) Replaced F-55659 and F-56660.  See photos.	2,8,9	503-100-120 Issue 1: 10/70
591 A 591 B	Desk set supplied to operating company with no ringer -- for installation of a frequency selective ringer for party line use.  See photos	-	-
592	Single line set with internal speakerphone microphone and controls -- used with 1A and 1A1 Speakerphone systems.  See details and photos Announced in 1954.	4	512-610-100 512-610-101 512-610-200 512-610-400
593	Wall set sold to independents without a ringer, marked "Western Electric"    See photos	10	-
596 E	"This is a desk type manual telephone set intended for use in the Command  Post Alerting Network (COPAN)."  Available only in yellow (-56) and light gray (-61)".  Manual set, 2 or 4 wire, manual 4-step ringer volume control, neon lamp equipped, ringer supplement, push to talk handset.  Consists of: PTT handset (G5RR), hookswitch, C4A ringer, hook switch, dial blank, neon lamp and domed lens (in position of message waiting lamp on 500W/Y), 10 conductor mounting cord, no network.  The round number card in the dial blank says: "JCS ALERT NET/Emergency Use Only" (Joint Chiefs of Staff)	-	529-205-148
597 AR	"Used in the (SAC) Strategic Air Command secondary and primary alerting  systems." It is a desk type manual set. It is available in red (-53) only.  The set has no ringer or network.  Just a handset (G3BR), hookswitch, terminal strip, dial blank, and a 6-conductor line cord.  Used with 4-wire circuits.	-	502-536-100 529-205-110
66x	See Automatic Dialers	-	-
75x	See Panel Phones	-	-

ROTARY KEY SETS WE 544

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
540	4-button,  non-lighted buttons  B: H P P P, 14-conductor line cord  (Note: Button codes for all key systems descriptions:      H = hold, non-locking      P = pickup, locking      S = signalling, non-locking      PS = pickup, locking, convertible to signalling, non-locking      C = cutoff, turn button) 500-series keysets announced in 1955.	-	502-525-200 502-525-300 502-525-400 502-541-401 C32.558 C32.561 C38.595
541	4-button, non-lighted buttons and exclusion,  14-conductor line cord	7	500-124-180
543	4-button, single line, specific to a 761A PBX, designed for the small hotel/motel market, used in the guest rooms.  Control buttons and "A-leads" (control leads) tell the switching equipment what kind of line to connect to the set (switching done within the PBX). 4 buttons marked "Message waiting" (the front desk could illuminate it to alert you to a message), "Desk" (connected you to the front desk), "Local" (connected you to a CO trunk for a local call), and "Long distance" (gave you a direct path to a toll operator).  Only 3 of the 4 buttons depressed.   These button features relieved the attendant of having to route much of the guest traffic.  Outwardly, these sets look like a 544 or 545 set but have fewer line cord conductors (12). 543DB – 641A line key, C4B ringer 543DBC – 588B line key, C4A ringer – field/distributor converted from 544BB or 545BB.	-	502-522-100 502-522-400 502-580-431
544	4-button, lighted buttons.  See photos  A: P P P PS, 25-conductor line cord  B: H P P PS, 19-conductor line cord	-	C32.558 C32.561 502-525-101 502-541-402
545 B 545 G	4-button, lighted buttons and exclusion.  B: H P P PS, 24-conductor line cord (GBR)	7	500-124-180 502-525-101 502-541-403
561	6-button, 25-pair line cord, non-lighted buttons and exclusion	-	C38.595 502-525-200 502-525-300 502-525-400
563	6-button, 25-pair line cord, headset connection	7	500-124-180 502-525-102 502-525-403  502-541-404
564	6-button, lighted buttons  B: H P P P P P, 28-conductor line cord  C: H P P P P S, 25-conductor line cord  D: H P P P S S, 25-conductor line cord HD: 30 or 34 conductor line cord. No lamp for HOLD key. HK/HL:  30 conductor line cord. No lamp for HOLD key.	-	C32.558 C32.561 502-525-102 502-525-404 502-525-410 502-541-406 502-541-407
565	6-button, lighted buttons and exclusion  A: P P P PS PS PS, 34-conductor line cord  B: H P P PS PS PS, 34-conductor line cord  E: H P P P PS C, 31-conductor line cord Later sets with speakerphone and 25-pair line cord:  GA, GB, GK (6-line pickup)  HA, HB, HD, HK (5-line+hold)  LA, LB, LD, LK (hold,4-line pickup,cutoff)      (Lamp for HOLD key except on –K sets.)	7	C32.558 C32.561 500-124-180 502-525-103 502-525-405 502-525-406 502-525-408 502-525-409 502-525-411 502-541-410 502-541-414 502-541-415 502-541-416
566	6-button, used with 755A PBX and may be adapted to 750A PBX.    Only one set of Tip and Ring go to the set, as line switching was done in the PBX. FB, MB (wired for 1A speakerphone and busy lamp), MD	-	C38.851 502-525-103 502-529-400 502-541-419
567 PB	6-button Data Aux Set used to control the 103A and other early modems  (buttons: data, talk, test1, test2, local, auto)	7	500-124-180  502-501-122 502-534-100 502-541-429
568 H	6-button w/ exclusion (HB,HF,HR,HT)  2 or 4-wire operation (P25E963 relay assembly).  HB has round buttons on the key strip and metal fingerwheel.  HF replaced HB and has H1A ringer.  HR replaced the HF and has N1A ringer with side-mounted volume control and case markings for LOUD and OFF, and a clear fingerwheel.  Room for optional AC or DC operated buzzer.  Available in black, red and white.	7	C38.595 C38.642 500-124-180 502-532-100 502-532-400 502-532-407 502-541-420 502-541-420 502-541-420 502-541-423
568 HT	Early touchtone keyset (before 1500 numbering), relay for 2 or 4-wire operation.  Has 22-type dial with P (Priority) and SG (Special Grade) buttons,  and round line and hold buttons on key strip.  Has square buttons on key pad. Available in black only.  1568HT replaced it. Available in black only.  (See photos.) (568HB,HF,HR is the rotaty version.  2568HAA is a later 12-button touchtone model.)	7	C38.595.06 500-124-180 500-542-406 502-503-410
569 NB	Data Service (buttons: data hold, talk, test, 1st pickup, 2nd pickup, auto answer or 3rd pickup)	7	C38.643 500-124-180  502-501-122 502-533-100 502-541-430
575 AM	6-button keyset for Comkey system intercom-only stations -- Comkey 718, 734, 1434 and 2152.  Red non-functioning key may be used for message waiting, 3 intercom line keys and 2 unused keys.	-	503-603-120 518-450-110 Issue 1:  1976
608	Call Director, 2 or 4-wire; 608C with headset jack. Call Directors announced in 1958.	-	C38.655 500-124-180 502-608-100 502-608-400
609	Call Director	-	502-609-101 502-609-401
616	Call Director	-	C38.658
617	Call Director	-	C38.658 502-616-101 502-616-402
618	Call Director, 2 or 4-wire; 618C with headset jack	-	C38.655 500-124-180 502-608-100 502-608-400
619	Call Director	-	500-124-180
621	Call Director	-	C38.656 502-620-400
622	Call Director	-	C38.656 502-620-401
625	Call Director, 2 or 4-wire	-	500-124-180 502-625-100
630  631 632	18-button general purpose Call Director  30-button general purpose Call Director	-	C38.651 502-610-406 502-630-100 502-630-101 502-630-200 502-630-401 502-630-402
634  635	18-button Call Director used with station line concentrators  30-button Call Director used with station line concentrators	-	C38.650 C38.651 502-610-409 502-634-101 502-634-401
636  637 Photo from Dave Friedman	18-button general purpose Call Director with headset jack  30-button general purpose Call Director with headset jack	-	C38.650 C38.651 502-610-418 502-636-101 502-636-111 502-636-401
638 639	18-button general purpose Call Director with headset jack  30-button general purpose Call Director with headset jack	-	C38.651 500-124-180 502-636-101 502-636-111 502-636-402
66x	See Automatic Dialers	-	-
691A	Subset used with data set 101A in Models 14, 15 and 19 teletypewriters. 6-button keyset. Has no hookswitch or transmitter element – uses 732A receiver (which looks like a G3 handset with no holes in the transmitter cap!). Keys marked ANS/CLEAR/ORIG/ /TEST/LOCAL. First 4 are momentary, last two lock. 425F network, 7L dial with numbers-only plate, C4A ringer and 589S Key. Bottom plate marked, “SUB SET 691A”.  See photos.	-	502-200-101 502-200-300
754	See Panel Phones	-	-
830	10-button desk set	-	503-701-101
831	20-button desk set	-	503-702-101
832	10, 11 or 13- button keysets used in Comkey 718 and 2152 systems (see BSPs) 11-button sets have HOLD, 7 line pickup, 2 intercom lines and RECALL. 13-button sets add Privacy Release and Ring Transfer Variations for both desk and wall mounting.	-	503-701-110 518-450-110
833	20-button keysets used in Comkey 718 and 2152 systems (see BSPs) HOLD, 14 line pickup, 3 intercom lines, RECALL and Privacy Release -OR- Ring Transfer. Variations for both desk and wall mounting.	-	503-702-110 518-450-110
835 836	10-button keysets, Comkey 416 Primary station with power supply and logic.  (see BSPs) 10 key Direct Station Select field.  (Replaced by 981 sets)	-	518-450-105 518-450-106
837	10-button keysets, Comkey 416 Satellite station without power supply and logic.  (see BSPs) 10 key Direct Station Select field.  (Replaced by 981 sets)	-	518-450-105 518-450-106
851	6-button wall set	-	503-601-101
852	10-button wall set	-	503-702-102
981	10-button keysets, Comkey 416, 4A Communication System Primary (981A01) and Satellite stations (981A02 desk, 981A03 wall).  (see BSPs) 10 key Direct Station Select field.	-	518-450-105 518-450-106
983	10-button keysets, Comkey 416, 4A Communication System Satellite stations with BIS (built-in speakerphone, 983A01), or HFAI (Hands-free answer intercom, 983A02).  (see BSPs) 10 key Direct Station Select field.	-	518-450-105 518-450-106

ROTARY AUTOMATIC DIALERS WE 661

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
660	Automatic Dialer - Uses plastic cards to store phone numbers to be automatically dialed. A lead control.   See Card Photos. Card dialers announced in 1961.	-	502-617-400 502-660-100 502-660-101 502-660-120 502-660-400
661	Keyset, 6-button Automatic Dialer -  See photos.	-	C38.665 502-661-101
662	Keyset, 6-button Automatic Dialer - wired for speakerphone use.	-	502-617-402 502-660-102 502-660-402 502-662-100
663	Automatic Dialer - wired for headset use, has 242-type amp, jack in back and turnswitch for ON/OFF control.	-	502-617-403 502-660-101 502-660-120 502-660-403
664	Keyset, 6-button Automatic Dialer -  wired for headset use, has 242-type amp, jack in back and turnswitch for ON/OFF control.	-	500-124-180 502-660-102 502-660-404
665	Automatic Dialer for 2 or 4-wire service	-	500-124-180

ROTARY PANEL PHONES WE 750B

MODEL	MAJOR FUNCTIONS	REF	BSP
NOTE: see Table Key for prefix and suffix codes and reference info.
750 A 750 B	Single line panel phone.  Mounted in a metal box recessed into the wall. Used on CO or PBX lines. Grill on front for ringer and knob for ringer adjustment.	7	C38.680 C38.851 502-705-100  502-730-401 502-750-100 502-750-300 502-750-400
751A 751 B	2-line panel phone with exclusion.  Used on CO or PBX lines.	7	502-733-401 502-750-100 502-750-401
751C 751 D	2-line panel phone with exclusion.  Used on CO, PBX, 1A1 or 1A2 KTS lines.	7	502-705-101 502-750-100 502-750-401
752	Panel phone with 3-type speakerphone.	-	502-705-102 502-736-401 502-750-102 502-750-402
753 A 753 B	2-line panel phone with hold	8	502-705-103 502-739-401 502-750-103 502-750-403
754	6-button keyset	-	502-705-102 502-736-402 502-750-104 502-750-404
755	Armored, with armored cord (like a pay phone).  Used in lobbies to communicate with tenants.	-	502-750-105

KEY:

MODEL Number Format = 5nnv, where 5nn=model number, and v indicates model variations.

Many bases are marked on the bottom 5nn x/y (e.g. 500 C/D).  This was a manufacturing convenience used where the same base component was used to build several different variations and is not the model number.  Usually x=manual version (no dial) and y=with dial.  Model number 500C has an apparatus blank instead of a dial.  Model number 500D has a dial. 

There are exceptions.  The 500 P/U base was used to make the 500P or 500U sets, both of which have dials.  Some bases are marked 500 P, some 500 U and some 500 P/U.

• Many TouchTone models have similar numbers, with a prefix of 1, 2 or 3,  e.g. 15nn x/y.  The chart hasn't been checked for all variations in TouchTone, yet.  

• Prefix codes: 
         1: TouchTone models, 10-button keypad  (digits 0-9),  e.g. 1500, announced 1964, MD 2/68;
         2: TouchTone models, 12-button keypad  (digits 0-9, * and #), e.g. 2500, phased in during 1968;

  3: Autovon models, 16-button keypad  (adds FO, F, I and P keys), announced 1969;

CS: later models (1980s) which were customer-owned (including internal components),  e.g. CS2500.

• Suffix codes:
        M: modular handset and line connectors,  e.g. 500DM, phased in during 1972;
        G: Polarity Guard installed (TouchTone models),  e.g. 2500DMG;

        P: Wall set with modular wall plug, e.g. 554BMP;

R: Retractile cord (coiled handset cord),  e.g. 500DR;

        W: Without Bell System markings (for units sold outside the Bell System),  e.g. 2500DMW;

CASE MARKING (Note: no Bell system Markings) HANDSET MARKING

photos from Jonathan Sowers

-nn:  Color Code,  e.g. 500DR-3 (black),  see Colors.

        *: Set wired for 1A1 or 1A2 (typically found on 500L/M or keysets)

? (in table entries) = Model identified, but feature description and reference still needed. Please help!

• WE made many models based on the 500 design with model numbers outside the range 500-599.

SAMPLE MODEL AND DATE MARKINGS:
The markings are usually found in the back right corner of the bottom plate -- either below or to the left of the ringer adjustment wheel.

Set is a 500C (no dial) (Vermillion code indicates set was refurbished.)	Set is a 500D (dial) Color 54 = dark brown	Set is a 500AB M = modular W = without Bell System Markings	Set is a 554B CS = Customer Owned M = modular P = modular plug installed

Note: date codes on the right two phones are in the form YYDDD, where YY is the last 2 digits of the year and DDD is the numeric day of the year (001-365).  Their bases are cad plated, rather than the original black.

Date codes changed format in about 1978 for 500-type sets and in about 1977 for Princess sets.

• COMPONENT EVOLUTION: Model numbers relate to "function" while components in each model changed from time to time, and were often phased gradually into production.  For example, in the 500D:

• Plastic Shell:  Soft plastic (1949) > Hard ABS plastic (Gradually phased in between 1959 and 1964);   Receiver caps on soft plastic sets have 6 holes in a circle, while hard plastic caps have 7 holes (including one in the center of the pattern.)
• Handset: black sets: G1 bakelite (1949) > G3 plastic (phased in 1962-65) > G15 modular (~1972); 
  
• Handset: colored sets: G3 plastic (1953) > G15 modular (~1972)
  
• Handset cord strain relief:  2 piece design (1949) > integrated with transmitter cup (~1952);
• Cords:  Hardwired (1949) > Modular connectors (~1972);
• Dial:  black sets: 7A (1949) > 7D > 9-series (~1963);
• Dial:  colored sets*: 7C (1953) > 7D > 9-series (~1963);
  
• Fingerwheel:   Black metal (1949) > Clear Plastic, "open center"* > Plastic, solid center (~1962);
• Network:  425A (1949) > 425B (1952) > 425C > 425E > 4228 > 4293 (~1983); 
• Ringer:  C2A or C3A (party line) (1949) > C4A (~1954);
• Baseplate:  Painted black (1949) > Cad plated (~1967)  [see photos above];
• Feet:  Leather-covered (1949) > Triangular Neoprene (1958) > Round ribbed (1963) > Round flat (~1966);
• Hookswitch plungers:  Black (1949) > Clear * (all colored sets and with hard plastic for black sets);
• Shell date code (inside):  Printed in ink along front edge (1949) > pressed in circle near cradle (~1960);
• Handsets and bottom plates marked "Bell System Property, Not for Sale" (1968-1983).

* Changes with Colored Sets starting in 1953: 7C dial, clear hookswitch plungers, clear plastic fingerwheel.  Look for color code on the back of the 7C dials,  e.g. 7C-59.  Clear plastic fingerwheels were also used on black 500H, P and U sets.

(Many individual components have date codes.  It is not uncommon to find refurbished phones with internal components of mixed dates, as the Bell System was a master of recycling.  I have several sets with 2 leather feet and 2 plastic feet thanks to the refurb shop.  The real treasure is to find an early set where all the dates match!)

• WE also made specials for large customers (e.g. Howard Johnson).

• Exclusion keys were wired for many purposes, including ringer cut-off, extension station cutoff, etc.

References include:
1. Station Service Manual (325-048), 8/80
2. Southern Bell Station Service Manual, V2, 2/74
3. New England Telephone Service Manual, 1970
4. 100 Years of Bell Telephones, Mountjoy, 1995
5. Telephone Collecting: Seven Decades of Design, Dooner, 1993
7. New England Telephone Station Installation Handbook V2, 9/70
8. Bell System Station Service Manual, 8/77
9. Bell System Station Service Manual, 9/78
10. Western Electric Catalog #10

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WHEN WAS MY 500-TYPE SET BUILT?

It's time for some detective work.  Fortunately, Western Electric left a lot of clues for us to follow.  Most components of the 500-series sets had both model numbers and dates.  This was important for them, as the Bell System owned the phones at the time, and refurbished the sets to extend their useful lifetime.  Most of the sets we find today were in service for many years and were probably refurbished at least once.  Original components were replaced with the currently manufactured parts.  Therefore, internal dates of the components do not always match.

The dates that are the most important in establishing age are the date on the bottom plate and the date on the network.  These two components were usually joined in the assembly process using rivets, so were difficult to change in refurb.  If the dates match, that was most probably the assembly date of the phone.  Other components  used in the assembly would originally have had the same month code or perhaps a date a month or two earlier.  

Look at the model number and date information carefully, to make sure it hasn't been changed.  Often, original dates have been painted over and new dates stamped . 

Original date. Set is a 500C (no dial) (Vermillion code indicates set was refurbished.)	Original numbers painted out New code in vermillion ink.	Original code painted out New code in silver ink. "CONV" = converted	Only model variation  painted out Date not changed! Look for replaced parts.

Parts such as the dial, ringer, cords, plastic shell and all handset components usually also have dates.  These parts are real easy to change, so were often replaced during the phone's useful lifetime.

If your phone has mixed dates,  the interesting dates for it are the dates on the base and network, and the dates of the last refurb or newest component found.

Another exercise for the phone sleuth is to try to determine what the original model number was, if the original model number had been painted over.  Occasionally careful examination of the black paint will show a slight raised pattern caused by the original ink below.  In other cases, remains of the previous model will be left in place.  For example, looking inside the phone from the rightmost photo above revealed a terminal strip near the handset entry hole.  Therefore the original set was probably a 500T, 500J or 500K.  The original 425A network had been removed and replaced with a 425B.  The terminal strip was left in place.

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COLORS:

Now that you know how many models you need to collect, try finding them in all the following colors, by year!!

The color code was appended to the model number as a suffix.  Dates offered are included, where known.  To view 1983 Western Electric Color Charts, follow these links:  For Phones , or For Components .  (Thanks to Todd Bernstein and David Massey for providing these charts!)

Keychains in "original" colors

WE 500 Colors: 1949 thru 1983 (The first color name is typically the one found in the initial BSPs.  Other names were used in marketing literature and often differed among the Operating Companies.) -3 Black -29 Transparent (dates unknown)  New in 1953 (Black handset, dial & cord) -50 Ivory, Cameo Ivory, Classic Ivory. -51 Green, Moss Green, Mistletoe Green, Sage Green,  Colonial Green. -52 Gray, Dark Gray, Oxford Gray, Charcoal Gray, Dove Gray. (MD* 1957)  -53 Red, Cherry Red, Cardinal Red, Fiesta Red. New in 1954 (full color or two-tone) -54 Brown, Mahogany Brown, Briar Brown, Autumn Brown. (MD 1957,           continued for keysets for several years)  -55 Beige, Dark Beige, Rose Beige, Rosewood Beige. (MD 1957)  -56 Yellow, Canary Yellow, Sunlight Yellow, Pastel Yellow. -57 Blue, Medium Blue, Dark Blue, Mediterranean Blue, True Blue, Capri Blue, Shadow Blue. (MD 1957)  New in 1957 (two-tone MD) -58 White  -59 Rose Pink    (MD ca. 1978) -60 Light Beige  -61 Light Gray    (MD ca. 1978) -62 Aqua Blue  New in 1964 -64 Turquoise   (MD ca. 1978) *MD = Manufacture Discontiued

Late Production (80s) -93 Lemon Yellow -104 Chocolate Brown  -105 Dark Green, Hunter Green  -106 Lime Green   -115 Royal Blue, Dark Blue -123 Butter Yellow  -124 Rust (& Merlin) Gun Metal Grey (Oxford) Peach Salmon For more information on phone colors, see: Phones in Color! WE Color Codes Chart

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HANDSETS:   WE G4

How simple could it be?  Although we usually find the G1, G3 and G15 versions, look at all the others out there...

Note that there are several model numbers within each type code, based on cord type and in some cases controls provided.  Some information is presented in the chart, but see the BSPs for details.

MODEL TYPE	DESCRIPTION	BSP
G1	Early standard handset - Bakelite Shell and Caps, Black.  Many were later refurbed with plastic caps (which are often hard to remove!)   Replaced by G3. Models include: G1AR (500 sets), G1DR (PBX), G1FR (570-type sets), G1G (coin collectors), G1J (525A and B sets).   G1B had an optional weight (RS-9099) for use with 190 series and lower coin collectors.	C63.341 501-210-102 501-210-300
G2	Early push-to-talk/listen.  Replaced by G5.	C63.341 501-210-102 501-210-300
G3 G3W photo (no Bell System markings) from Jonathan Sowers	Later standard handset - Plastic Shell and Caps. Available in colors. Replaced by G15 (modular). Models include: G3AA (525A and B sets), G3AB (PBX), G3AC (570-type sets), G3AR (5,6,700-series sets), G3BR (COPAN - Command Post Alerting Network), G3CR,DR (601-type, 700 series), G3FR (112A key equipment), G3K (coin collector, 750-type), G3L (key mountings), G3M,P,R,S,T (coin collectors), G3Y (2568HP)	C63.341 501-210-102 501-210-300
G4	Shoulder Rest - fits into two holes on handle.  Can be installed to fit either right or left shoulder. See photos. Models include: G4AR (black only), G4B (colors).  Announced in 1954.	C63.341 501-210-102 501-210-300
G5	Push-to-talk - Has a rectangular push-to-talk bar on the handgrip.  Models include: G5AR (mobile radio), G5BR (4-wire circuits, paging),G5CR (FAA, private line systems), G5ER (535 set), G5FR (Bendix MRT9 radio), G5GR (2,4-wire private line stations), G5HR (102-type key equipment), G5JR (#300 switching system), G5KR (2A farm interphone), G5LR (617 set, COPAN), G5MR (Air-ground base station), G5NR (625-type set), G5PR,RR (596E set).	501-210-102 501-210-300
G6	Impaired Hearing - receiver amplifier and volume control in handset.  G6B (late) and G6BM have a 0.02mf cap across terminals R and G.  G6AR has a single stage transistorized amp.  (See G66.)  Introduced in 1961.	501-210-300 501-211-102 501-211-400
G7 (control similar to G6)	Weak Speech - transmitter amplifier and volume control in handset.	501-210-300 501-211-102 501-211-400
G8	Noisy Locations - receiver amplifier with volume control and push-to-listen switch, which decreases transmitter output and increases receiver output.	501-210-300 501-211-102 501-211-400
D-108413	Modified G8B for noisy locations - provides additional receiver gain.  (See G66.)	501-211-102 Addendum I1
G10	Government Agencies for Security Reasons - To listen or talk it is necessary to depress a button in the middle of the handset. These handsets are factory sealed units.  Models include: G10A-F.   G10A has two buttons on handle (receive and transmit), G10E has one button controlling both functions.	501-210-301
G11	"Used with 15A, 15B and 15C apparatus which are part of 520A, 520B and 2520C explosion-proof telephone sets.  Designed to provide protection against the probability of explosion resulting from flames originating within the handset under extreme conditions of operation."  (Makes you wonder about the rest of the handsets, doesn't it?)  T3 transmitter, LA1 receiver, aluminum lined cavities.	501-210-102
G12	Early plug-in type cord -- uses H4DB with a square plug at the handset end and a Trimline-style plug at the other end.	501-210-103
G13 photo from Jeremy Walters	Impaired Hearing - for coin collector sets - Similar to G6B, except uses a slide switch instead of a potentiometer and has an armored cord.  Later handsets used two pushbuttons (as shown).  Switch provides either 10 or 20db gain and spring returns to normal position. Caps are ultrasonically bonded to the handle, therefore components cannot be replaced.	501-211-102 501-211-400
G15A	Basic handset with modular connection.  Replaced G3 for modular applications.	501-210-103
G36	Long Route - Replaces original handset where 3db transmission gain or low current operation is required.  (Only works with rotary dials or touchtone dials equipped with a common switch contact arrangement to prevent dial sidetone amplification, and is polarity sensitive.)  When installed, a sticker was placed on the bottom of the phone, "Equipped with G36 Handset", as there are no user controls visible to indicate the presence of the amplifier.	501-211-103
G66	Impaired hearing - receiver-amplifier unit and polarity guard.  Pushbutton provides an additional 10db gain in the receiver and 10 db loss in the transmitter circuit.  This handset is intended only for use by customers who require more receiver gain than that provided by G6 type handset. Recommended in place of the D-180413 handset.	501-211-102 Issue 6
GF	Handset for 5302.  Uses a G1 or G3 handle, with adapters for HA1 and F1 elements used in the F1 handset.  See photo	502-400-301 NY
732A	This is actually a receiver that looks like a G3 handset.  It has no transmitter element, the cup has no terminals installed and the transmitter cap has no holes! Used on 691A subset.  (732A is in the coding series for receivers.)   See photo	502-200-101
KS-  16504	High fidelity dynamic microphone. Used with 8A and 9A announcement systems (to record the message), or as part of a high fidelity conference set.	501-210-120 501-210-300
J1	Control of 1-type telephone reporting set from a remote line.  Similar to G5 with a switch controlled oscillator for generating a 1475 cps signal.	501-210-104
Link to similar info on F Handset Models.

Note: Early models had separate cord retainer parts in the transmitter cavity.  Later models had the retainer molded into the transmitter cup.  The parts are not interchangeable.

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Please send comments or photos of your favorite phones to: 

Donation of photos (or actual phones) is greatly appreciated.

CONTRIBUTORS
Thanks to ATCA and TCI members, including: Rick Walsh, David Massey, Jeremy Walters, Todd Bernstein, David Willingham, John Chalupsky, Steve Hilsz, Steph Kerman, Stan DeOrsey, Steve Schlink and Vern Potter.

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