Overview
An exceptionally early Mullard ECC82 / 12AU7 manufactured in 1953, featuring the highly desirable welded long plates, square getter and Blackburn factory code 1593 E4. The printed Mullard logo has largely worn away with age, although a ghost image remains visible, while the factory code is still legible.
Its construction corresponds with the earliest Blackburn-produced ECC82 valves and makes it an interesting example for collectors of early Mullard production.
Identification
- Type: ECC82 / 12AU7
- Manufacturer: Mullard
- Date code: 1593 E4 (1953)
- Construction: Early welded long plates (approximately 17mm)
- Getter: Square getter
Testing
The valve was tested on an AVO Mk III valve tester after allowing the heater to stabilise fully. It remained stable throughout testing, with no shorts detected after warm-up. Both triode sections operate correctly but measure below Mullard data-book specification, so the valve is being sold honestly as a lower-output example.
Please refer to the accompanying test table for the measured plate current and transconductance readings.
Condition
- Glass envelope is intact.
- Pins are straight and in good condition.
- Original Mullard logo mostly worn, with a faint ghost image remaining.
- Factory code remains legible.
- No shorts detected after warm-up during testing.
Applications & Collectability
Despite measuring below specification, this remains a scarce and highly collectable early Blackburn Mullard ECC82 because of its 1953 manufacture, welded long plate construction and square getter. It may appeal to Mullard collectors, valve historians and enthusiasts interested in documenting the evolution of early British valve production.
It could also be suitable for experimental, restoration or light-duty applications where originality is valued more highly than achieving full new-old-stock performance. The measured readings are provided so buyers can make an informed decision before purchase.
