We’ve previously reported that in the late 1950s, the Soviets led the free world not only in space, but also in kerosene powered radios. They produced a 7-tube set powered by kerosene, a thermocouple, and vibrator power supply.

But it turns out that the Americans were close on their heels, and were producing a superior product just a few years later, as shown here. This battery, dubbed the Aztec, was produced by Minnesota’s iconic 3M, and could power a transistor radio (apparently sold separately) for up to 24 hours with a pint of kerosene.

You can see a pristine example, apparently for sale, at this link, which also includes a link (currently broken) to one in a Canadian museum.

The American model produced a low voltage, which was stepped up to 6 volts with a transistorized power supply mounted in the base.  In addition to use in off-grid locales during peacetime, the set was billed as having a Civil Defense purpose for powering the important radio in the fallout shelter.