11 Antique Typewriters That Are Worth Collecting

For many, typewriters are a symbol of a bygone era, where each keystroke felt meaningful. These machines, with their distinctive clicks and mechanical charm, hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. Antique typewriters tell stories of writers, thinkers, and innovators who shaped the 20th century. Some models, in particular, are highly sought after due to their rarity and craftsmanship. You may find yourself inspired to start your own collection after learning more about these treasures.

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Underwood No. 5

The Underwood No. 5 is often considered one of the most iconic typewriters from the early 20th century. Released in 1900, it was a revolution in design, offering a shift key that allowed for uppercase and lowercase letters. Its sleek design and reliable performance made it a favorite among professionals, and it became one of the most widely used typewriters of its time. Today, a well-preserved model can fetch anywhere from $200 to $1,500, depending on its condition and any special features.

Collectors are drawn to the Underwood No. 5 not only for its historical importance but also for its timeless style. The typewriter’s exposed typebars and simple yet effective mechanical layout make it a great find for collectors. The smooth action and distinct keystroke sound contribute to its appeal, making it a must-have for those who appreciate vintage writing tools. This model remains one of the most sought-after items for antique typewriter enthusiasts.

Royal Quiet DeLuxe

The Royal Quiet DeLuxe, introduced in 1939, is known for its elegance and quiet operation. It was designed to appeal to both home and office users, with a focus on portability and ease of use. Its smooth, soft-touch keys and compact design make it a standout in the world of typewriters. Depending on its condition, a Royal Quiet DeLuxe can be priced between $100 and $600.

What makes the Royal Quiet DeLuxe a popular choice for collectors is its combination of aesthetics and practicality. The typewriter’s ergonomic design and light weight made it an ideal choice for writers who needed to work in different locations. Vintage models often feature the original chrome accents and high-quality keys, making them even more desirable. This typewriter is a favorite among collectors looking for a balance of beauty and functionality.

Smith-Corona Silent

The Smith-Corona Silent, first released in the 1930s, revolutionized the typewriter industry with its noise-reducing mechanism. It was one of the first machines designed to be quieter than its predecessors, making it ideal for offices and homes alike. Known for its smooth operation and durable construction, the Smith-Corona Silent is a true collector’s item. Depending on the model and condition, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 for a well-maintained example.

This typewriter stands out for its mechanical ingenuity, offering a more refined typing experience compared to earlier models. Its sleek design, with a variety of colors and finishes, adds to its charm for collectors. The Smith-Corona Silent also marked the transition from older, noisier machines to the more user-friendly models of the mid-20th century. Its place in history as a significant improvement in office technology makes it highly collectible.

Remington No. 2

The Remington No. 2, introduced in 1878, was one of the earliest typewriters to feature a front-strike design. This innovation allowed the typist to see the text as it was being typed, a huge advancement in writing technology. The Remington No. 2 is highly sought after for its rarity and historical significance, as it is one of the first commercially successful typewriters. Depending on the condition, it can be valued anywhere from $500 to $3,000.

Collectors are particularly interested in the Remington No. 2 for its status as a pioneer in the typewriter industry. The machine’s cast-iron construction and distinct design make it a visually appealing piece of history. Models with original decals or unique features are considered especially valuable. This typewriter is a true treasure for those seeking to own a piece of early industrial technology.

Oliver 9

The Oliver 9, manufactured in the early 1900s, is a standout due to its distinctive design and durability. Known for its large, bold keys and a visible type-bar system, it was one of the first typewriters to offer a comfortable typing experience. Its unique look and solid construction make it a favorite among collectors who appreciate its historical importance. Prices for the Oliver 9 can range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the condition and rarity of the model.

What sets the Oliver 9 apart from other typewriters of its time is its vertical design, which allowed for easier typing posture. The machine’s large keys, often painted in black or green, offer a vintage look that is highly prized by collectors. The Oliver 9 is a mechanical marvel, known for its resilience and longevity. With its iconic design, it remains a highly desirable typewriter for antique collectors.

Underwood Champion

The Underwood Champion, produced in the early 1920s, was one of the most advanced typewriters of its time. It was designed to be a more affordable option compared to the high-end models, while still offering a reliable typing experience. This typewriter is praised for its simplicity and efficiency, making it a favorite among writers and typists alike. Depending on its condition, it can be found for prices ranging from $150 to $700.

Collectors often seek the Underwood Champion for its minimalist design and efficient performance. Unlike more ornate models, the Champion focuses on practicality, offering a smooth, fast typing experience. The durability and ease of use also make it a desirable item for those interested in functional vintage tools. The Underwood Champion represents the shift toward more accessible and streamlined typewriters during the early 20th century.

Corona 3 Folding Typewriter

The Corona 3, first introduced in 1912, is one of the most popular folding typewriters ever made. Its compact size and portability made it an ideal choice for traveling typists, and it became a favorite among journalists and writers on the go. The design of the Corona 3 allowed it to easily fold into a small, manageable size, making it both practical and space-saving. The price for a Corona 3 ranges from $200 to $1,000, depending on its condition and rarity.

What makes the Corona 3 a sought-after collectible is its historical role in the evolution of portable typewriters. This model was a game-changer for people who needed a reliable typing tool on the move. Its lightweight design and sturdy construction have made it a popular item among collectors who appreciate its functionality and unique portability. The Corona 3 is a must-have for those seeking a piece of typewriter history with practical appeal.

L.C. Smith & Bros. No. 8

The L.C. Smith & Bros. No. 8 is an exceptional typewriter that was first introduced in 1912. Known for its clean design and robust construction, it quickly became a favorite among business professionals and writers. The typewriter’s wide range of features, including a smooth carriage return and a sturdy build, made it highly sought after in its day. Today, this model is valued at around $400 to $2,500, depending on its condition and rarity.

Collectors are drawn to the L.C. Smith & Bros. No. 8 because of its historical importance and longevity. The machine’s attractive design, often finished in black enamel with gold accents, adds to its charm. This model is recognized for its solid performance and ease of use, which made it a popular choice in the early 20th century. For those interested in vintage typewriters, the L.C. Smith & Bros. No. 8 is a standout item that blends functionality and style.

Remington Rand Model 1

The Remington Rand Model 1, produced in the 1920s, is another typewriter that made a significant impact on the early typewriter industry. With its sturdy construction and easy-to-use layout, it became a popular choice for both home and office use. The Remington Rand Model 1 is often seen as a precursor to modern typewriters, offering innovations that made typing faster and more efficient. A well-maintained model can fetch between $250 and $1,500, depending on condition and rarity.

This typewriter is celebrated for its simplicity and function, making it a great option for those new to typewriter collecting. The compact design and smooth typing action appeal to collectors who enjoy vintage technology with practical applications. The Remington Rand Model 1 is also known for its durability, making it a reliable piece of history that can last for many years. Its place in typewriter evolution makes it a must-have for serious collectors.

Royal Standard Typewriter

The Royal Standard Typewriter, introduced in the early 1900s, was a milestone in the typewriter industry. It was designed for both durability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for office workers and writers. Known for its simple yet effective layout, the Royal Standard quickly gained a reputation for being one of the best machines of its time. Prices for this model vary, typically ranging from $300 to $2,000, depending on the condition and market.

Collectors are drawn to the Royal Standard for its clean design and the historical context behind its creation. This typewriter represents a period when machines were transitioning from the older, more cumbersome designs to the more user-friendly models of the 20th century. Its sturdy construction and smooth action make it a great addition to any typewriter collection. The Royal Standard Typewriter remains a respected item for both enthusiasts and historians.

Underwood No. 3

The Underwood No. 3 is a classic typewriter that gained fame in the early 1900s for its durable construction and effective performance. Known for its all-metal frame and wide carriage, this model was perfect for business use. The Underwood No. 3 was one of the most popular typewriters of its time, and its strong reputation for reliability helped it stand out. Today, collectors value it for its robust design and historical significance, with prices typically ranging from $200 to $1,500.

This typewriter is celebrated for its ergonomic design, which made it a favorite among professionals in the early 20th century. The Underwood No. 3 also became an important symbol of modernity, as it reflected the shift toward more practical and efficient office equipment. Many models still function well today, making them desirable for both collectors and those who appreciate vintage technology. The Underwood No. 3’s place in typewriter history makes it a highly collectible item.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.