WWII Army Signal Corps M-209-A Converter Coding Machine

The small, compact, M-209-A Converter was a coding machine similar to the German Enigma machine, using multiple rotors to encode and decode messages in the field. Unlike the Enigma machine, however, the M-209 did not require an electrical power source and was a “stand alone” encoding device. The machine was designed by noted Swedish cryptographer Boris Hagelin and only about 140,000 of the M-209 series machines were ever built. This example appears to have actually been used in the field. The original roll of paper tape is still contained within the lid of the device, although it appears that a tool or oil bottle was originally clamped inside of the lid and that is now missing. Very good condition.