National Panasonic
R-397 1967-1970This radio was a couple of models below the R-100, and below the R-357, but shares quite a bit inside with both. Unlike the other two it has a single speaker. It runs on 3 "D" cells for 4.5 volts, but there is no provision for external power.
Styling follows the R-100 with a silver grill.
A three-band, 12-transistor, 4-diode portable radio.
Features: tuned RF stage; exclusive signal strength meter and battery check; 3½" PM dynamic speaker, 700 mW output. Fine tuning; tone switch; dial light. Jacks for external antenna and earth, eaphone or external speaker. Powered by three Type UM-1 cells.
Frequency range: MW, 525 - 1605 kHz; SW1, 2.3 - 7 MHz; SW2, 7 - 22 MHz.
Comes with brown leather carrying case.
It cost $99 when released in 1967, that's $1,412.12 in 2022 money. Mingays price service and Reserve Bank of Australia.
This example was purchased at a HRSA estate auction in early 2023.
It's missing the tone switch, but looks repairable overall.


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