[exray]

that does lead me to one question though.
there are two wires coming out for the antenna, one antenna lead and one ground lead.
my question is, were these intended to be used with a loop antenna?
my guess is no, and that the ground wire went to a cold water pipe or was one side of a dipole style antenna.
just wanted some input from those who have more of a history with these types of radios. (im only 39)

No, not made for a loop. Made for a 'random wire' and ground connection. Random wire translates to 'anything you want to hook to it' A reasonable length of wire outdoors will serve as an excellent antenna. Could be half of a dipole, etc.