| Name | Münzfernsprecher 20/21 Fernwahl-Münzfernsprecher MünzFw 20/21, für weltweiten Selbstwählferndienst (SWFD) The Fernwahl-Münzfernsprecher MünzFw 20/21 was a specialised German coin-operated payphone developed for self-dialled long-distance and international calls (Selbstwählferndienst, SWFD |
| Date | from the late 1960s into the 1980s with some units remained in service into the early 1990s before replacement by electronic and card-operated payphones. |
| Manufacturer | Deutsche Bundespost |
Development of the Münzfernsprecher 20/21
| The Fernwahl-Münzfernsprecher MünzFw 20/21 was a specialised German coin-operated payphone developed for self-dialled long-distance and international calls (Selbstwählferndienst, SWFD). Introduced in the later 20th century under the Deutsche Bundespost, it reflected the shift from operator-assisted trunk calls to fully automated global dialling. Technically, the MünzFw 20/21 was more advanced than standard local payphones. It incorporated enhanced electromechanical and early electronic control systems capable of handling complex tariff structures associated with long-distance and international connections. The unit could request and process coins during a call, with signalling from the exchange determining when additional payment was required to continue the connection. Unlike earlier models limited to local or national use, this system was integrated with international switching networks, allowing users to dial overseas numbers directly from a public payphone. It typically featured clear user instructions, improved coin handling, and more sophisticated relay or electronic control circuits. Installed in major public locations such as transport hubs and city centres, the MünzFw 20/21 represents a key step in the evolution of German payphones, enabling fully automated worldwide communication without operator assistance. |
| More info- https://oeffentlichetelefone.de/ |
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