This rare candlestick telephone comes from the Century Telephone Construction Co., based in Buffalo, New York. The company was among the smaller but high-quality manufacturers of telephone equipment during the boom of American telephony in the early 20th century. The phone features the classic candlestick design: nickel-plated metal body, separate receiver on a side hook, and a firmly mounted microphone at the top of the shaft. A distinctive feature of some Century models is the so-called “split shaft” — a divided column that allowed easier access for servicing. Since these phones were produced in smaller series, they are now highly prized collector’s items, especially due to their craftsmanship and unique construction features.