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Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast

Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast

Written by: Donley Auctions
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 Unveiling the Auction World: Behind the Scenes at Donley Auctions Get ready for a front-row seat to the thrilling world of auctions! Join Susan, Randy, and the entire Donley Auctions crew as they pull back the curtain and show you what really happens behind the scenes.Donley Auctions Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Projectionist's Tomb

    The Projectionist's Tomb
    Feb 21 2026
    In this episode of Donley Auctions Unfiltered, Randy and Susan Donley take us behind the scenes for an exclusive "unpacking" of a massive treasure trove of antiques. From rare musical machines to iconic Hollywood props and legendary sports cards, this episode is a must-watch for any serious collector preparing for the upcoming May auctions.Episode HighlightsThe Unveiling of the Mills Bow Front Violano [03:13]Randy reveals a "best in the world" Mills Bow Front Violano. This rare home model, which hasn't been on the market for 40 years, features a unique custom-curved cabinet and is in perfect working order.The Rare Caillie Triple Upright [05:00]The duo uncovers a stunning Caillie Triple Upright slot machine. Described as a "serious collector" item, Randy warns that once this hits a private collection in May, it likely won't be seen again for decades.Hollywood Boulevard Cinema Auction Preview [07:09]Details on the massive on-site auction in Woodridge, Illinois. Featured items include the Blues Brothers Display, a Golden Sarcophagus, and the Wicked Witch of the West.Exploring the "Projectionist’s Tomb" [09:14]John takes a dusty climb into the rafters of the Hollywood Boulevard Cinema to catalog "creepy" Egyptian statuary, cauldrons, and life-sized witches tucked away in the theater's hidden corners.Photography and Hidden Gems with Jim from JPM [10:54]Photographer Jim shares his favorite finds from the cinema collection, including a rare Stephen King first edition and original Marilyn Monroe artwork from the artist who worked with her throughout her career.The Story of Rin Tin Tin [15:11]While unpacking a "Rin Tin Tin and the Nightcry" piece, Susan shares trivia about the legendary K9 star, who was once the highest-paid actor in Hollywood.ReginaPhone Music Box Demonstration [16:15]A live demonstration of a magnificent ReginaPhone. Randy explains the "double comb" mechanics and plays the Holly Copper Smith March, showcasing the machine’s incredible acoustic resonance. [17:12]Michael Jordan & Rare Sports Memorabilia [20:42]Ryan showcases high-end sports cards, including a 1986 Star Court King Michael Jordan (PSA 8) and a 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan Rookie (SGC 7.5). He also teases upcoming original film negatives from the Bulls' "repeat" eras.The Rapid-Fire Inventory Tour [25:56]A final sweep of the warehouse reveals a Mutoscope pistol game, Victor phonographs, a "Lake Breeze" hot air fan, and a rare Edison Excelsior fitted with an external horn.Don’t miss these items at the upcoming May 29 "Classic 300" Auction! For full catalogs and bidding information, visit DonleyAuctions.com.Welcome to the Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast, where history meets the highest bidder. Randy Donley and the rest of the Donley Auctions team are here to bring you the thrill of the auction, the behind-the-scenes scoop, and everything in between. We've got amazing stories behind the treasures, even some crazy stories you wouldn't believe. Insider tips for both buyers and consigners and maybe even a cameo or two from Tucker, the auction dog. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
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    29 mins
  • 2:23 We Used to Be Friends!

    2:23 We Used to Be Friends!
    Feb 13 2026
    We Used to Be Friends: Mechanical Marvels & The Rider CollectionIn this episode, Randy Donley and Susan are joined by a true legend in the world of mechanical music, Dave Ramey, Jr. The Ramey family has been the gold standard for restoring and manufacturing Nickelodeons, band organs, and orchestrions since the 1950s. Together, they take us on a tour through the spectacular Frank Rider Collection, offering a rare look at some of the most intricate musical machines ever built before they head to the auction block.Episode HighlightsThe Ramey Family Legacy [00:48]: Dave Ramey Jr. discusses his lifelong history in the trade, starting in his father’s shop in the late 1950s and eventually reproducing the famous Encore Banjo machines.The Rare Banjo Orchestra [01:27]: Learn about the "Ramey Banjo," a unique creation with over 30 units in existence, despite no original historical examples ever being found.Don Stenson Custom Concert Organ [04:19]: A deep dive into a stunning custom-built organ made for Frank Rider, featuring a complex system of 72 keys, valve chests, flutes, and drums.The "Workhorse" Nickelodeons [06:16]: The team examines a Seeburg L, one of Frank Rider’s first pieces, and a Nelson & Wiggen Style 8, known for packing a xylophone and bells into a compact "little box."The Art of Restoration [07:42]: Dave explains why the "valve chest" is the most difficult component to restore, requiring airtight precision and months of labor-intensive work.A Crisis in Craftsmanship [09:00]: A candid discussion on the shortage of new restorers and why Dave currently has a multi-year waiting list for his services.The Seeburg KT Specials [10:02]: A side-by-side comparison of three different KT models, including a rare replica built by Dave’s father using original leftover project parts.The Best Time to Collect [11:50]: Randy makes the case for why right now is the "prime time" for new collectors to enter the market as legendary lifelong collections become available.Caliolas and Dutch Street Organs [13:14]: An exploration of air-powered calliopes (or "Caliolas") and a replica Dutch street organ modeled after the instruments used by Amsterdam street vendors.The "Cowboys & Indians" Preview [16:17]: John takes us through a diverse array of non-musical items, including beaded moccasins, Annie Oakley memorabilia, and Western leather goods.Proper Identification & Condition [18:34]: Randy, Susan, and Dave wrap up by discussing the rigorous process of cataloging the collection to ensure every piece is accurately described for bidders.Ready to see these masterpieces in person? Visit DonleyAuctions.com to stay updated on the upcoming Rider Collection auction this May. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of mechanical history!Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180
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    20 mins
  • 2:22 I Need a Mint!

    2:22 I Need a Mint!
    Feb 5 2026

    Welcome to the Donley Auctions Unfiltered Podcast, where history meets the highest bidder. Randy Donley and the rest of the Donley Auctions team are here to bring you the thrill of the auction, the behind-the-scenes scoop, and everything in between. We've got amazing stories behind the treasures, even some crazy stories you wouldn't believe. Insider tips for both buyers and consigners and maybe even a cameo or two from Tucker, the auction dog. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes in, get ready for a wild ride through the world of auctions. Join us each week on your favorite podcast platform, but for the best experience, tune into this video podcast on a platform that supports videos like YouTube or Spotify. We've got some great visuals to enhance every episode.Donley Auctions - We bring buyers & sellers together.Let us put our experience to work for you.Donley Auction Serviceshttps://DonleyAuctions.com815-923-7000Info@DonleyAuctions.com8512 South Union Road (entrance on Marengo Road)Union, IL 60180Donley Auctions is a team of experienced auction professionals dedicated to creating a fun and exciting auction experience. With a rich history connected to the original Union Phonograph Show, the Seven Acres Museum, and Donley’s Wild West Town, Donley Auctions offers a diverse range of items for both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Specializing in firearms, militaria, coin-op, phonographs, cars, motorcycles, petroliana, antique advertising, architecture, coins, sports memorabilia, early inventions, and more, we are the place to get top dollar for your high-quality antiques and collectibles. We host live and in-person auctions monthly, complete with complimentary food and beverages, as well as online auctions at DonleyAuctions.com, where you can bid from anywhere in the world. Our friendly atmosphere, combined with our commitment to providing an engaging auction experience and expert shipping, makes us the go-to auction house for buyers and sellers alike. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, Donley Auctions is the place to be!
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    23 mins
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