Pair of Vintage Emerson Model 888 “Pioneer” NevaBreak Pocket Radios – Black & Gray – Untested / For Parts or Restoration

Offered together is a matching pair of classic late-1950s Emerson 888 “Pioneer” NevaBreak eight-transistor AM pocket radios. These iconic coat-pocket portables were made by the Emerson Radio and Phonograph Corporation in Jersey City, New Jersey, and named after the early U.S. space program.

Details:

• Model: Emerson 888 “Pioneer” NevaBreak Pocket Radio

• Color: One black and one gray/charcoal

• Year: Circa 1957–1959

• Circuit: 8 transistors, AM only

• Power: 4 × AA batteries (6 volts)

• Features: Large circular tuning dial marked “EIGHT TRANSISTORS,” checkerboard speaker grille, Emerson logo badge, volume/on-off control, and folding metal carry handle/stand with plastic grip

• Markings on reverse: “EMERSON 888 ‘PIONEER’ NEVABREAK POCKET RADIO” and Emerson Radio and Phonograph Corporation, Jersey City, N.J. U.S.A.

These are larger and more substantial than later shirt-pocket transistors and were well regarded in their day for solid volume and tone thanks to the bigger speaker.

Condition: Both radios show expected vintage wear consistent with age, including scratches, scuffs, surface marks, residual labels/stickers, and some aging/discoloration on the dials and grilles. The gray example shows a bit more wear in places. The plastic cabinets (Emerson’s “Nevabreak” material) appear intact with no major cracks or breaks visible in the photos.

These radios are UNTESTED and sold strictly for parts or restoration. I have not installed batteries or powered them on. Sold as-is with no guarantee of functionality. Ideal for collectors, restorers, or parts donors.

Please examine all photos carefully, as they form part of the description. These make a great matching set for a transistor radio collection, mid-century display, or restoration project.