Many consider 1930 to 1980 as the "golden age" of American radio technology. A time of extraordinary innovation driven by pioneering engineers and entrepreneurs, this 50 year span saw the introduction of rigs that would become famous throughout the world. The newest addition to the ARRL Library, 50 Years of Amateur Radio Innovation -- Transmitters, Receivers and Transceivers: 1930-1980, highlights theses treasured favorites in a way that has never been seen before.

This book takes you on a guided tour of more than 400 of these legendary radios, lovingly restored by their owners and gorgeously photographed by Joe Veras, K9OCO, a professional photographer and Amateur Extra class ham; through this book, Veras had pleasure of combining his profession with his lifelong hobby. He began working on 50 Years of Amateur Radio Innovation in 1993 and took the last photograph 13 years later. The images presented in the book represent more than 200 photo sessions and nearly 500,000 miles of travel.

"As much as Amateur Radio is about looking forward, we must never forget our rich history," said ARRL Chief Executive Officer David Sumner, K1ZZ. "As you read this book, Joe's photos will take you on a journey of historical discovery. Perhaps you own, or have owned, some of this equipment yourself. Many of these items are quite rare; this book may be the only place you will see them!"

ARRL Publications Manager and QST Editor Steve Ford, WB8IMY, added: "You find yourself leafing through the pages and blurting out, 'I owned one of those!' at regular intervals. I had to laugh out loud when I saw the photo of the Gonset Communicator II transceiver, complete with its cyclops 'eye tube.' That was my first 2 meter rig."

Whether you've been licensed for many years or are just starting out in Amateur Radio, 50 Years of Amateur Radio Innovation offers a fascinating visual travelogue of Amateur Radio technology. Each photo includes a brief description of the radio, model number, manufacturer, as well as the year it was introduced and its selling price at the time.

50 Years of Amateur Radio Innovation -- Transmitters, Receivers and Transceivers: 1930-1980 is hardcover and 128 pages. It is available from the ARRL Web site and dealers for $39.95. If you order before November 30, 2008, you will receive a free 2009 ARRL Calendar featuring the vintage radio photography of Joe Veras, K9OCO.