WHAT ARE THEY WORTH?

Typewriters are among the most reasonably priced items for people looking for something new to collect. Since there are still relatively few typewriter collectors, there are no standard "book" prices as there are for stamps, coins or other more popular collectibles. In fact, typewriter prices printed in the various antique guides vary widely and are usually highly inaccurate. Among collectors, the most common machines (described above) usually bring about $30-75). The hundred of different middle-range machines run from $100-300 and are more available than you might think. The rarest of antiques, such as the Sholes & Glidden, can achieve four figure prices, depending on their condition.

WHERE DO I FIND THEM?

Collectible typewriters can turn up anywhere. There is no way of telling how many of these old machines are hidden away in the attics of America. Collectors often comb flea markets, garage sales and antique malls for them, but there's really no pattern on where they can be found. Since there are only 150 or so active collectors in the U.S., few antiques shops will bother with typewriters (especially considering their relatively low prices). Dealers prefer merchandise with more "automatic" appeal like comic books, movie posters or old-time radios. The best advice on finding typewriters is simply to "keep your eyes open" at all times.

Marco Thorne, of San Diego, CA is trying to put together a list of places where old typewriters are on public display. He writes: "Suggested names an locations for an informal Directory of Publicly Displayed Early Typewriters and business Machines are being solicited by Marco Thorne, 4325 West Overlook Drive, San Diego, CA 92115-6116. Please include name of location and owner or manager, address, phone and fax numbers and a brief, general description of the collection including approximate number of items. A postcard would do fine."

HOW DO I FIND OUT MORE?

Learning about collectible typewriters takes time and patience. The place to start is by making contact with other collectors. If you are thinking seriously about starting a collection, joining a collectors group, or are trying to sell an old machine you happen to own, contact:

Darryl Rehr
to e-mail him, click here
some dope on Darryl

Click here to check out the Early Typewriter Collectors Association.

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