The short answer
Many typewriters were made, and plenty of common office and portable models sell for modest amounts, especially if they need work. Writers and collectors do look for well-made portables in good working order, mid-century designs and colors, unusual typefaces, and early or unusual machines. A machine that types cleanly, comes with its case and has all its parts is far easier to sell than one that is jammed or incomplete.
Identify the make and model
- Brand and model: usually on the front, the paper table or the back of the machine. Some models were sold under different names in different countries or by different stores.
- Serial number: usually stamped on the frame. Common places include under the carriage, beneath the ribbon cover, on the back or under the machine. Collectors keep online serial number lists that can date many machines to a year.
- Typeface: type a line of text. Script, cursive and other unusual typefaces are often more sought after than standard ones. Note the pitch, meaning how many characters fit per inch, if you know it.
- Keyboard layout: machines made for other languages may have different layouts, which matters to some buyers.
Manual or electric?
Manual typewriters, especially portables, have the widest following among writers and collectors. Electric typewriters from offices tend to have a smaller market, though some well-known models have dedicated users. For an electric, check that it powers on and types before you list it.
Test the mechanism
Put in a sheet of paper and work through these checks slowly:
- Every key strikes and returns without sticking.
- The carriage moves one space with each keystroke and the space bar works.
- The carriage return lever advances the paper and returns the carriage.
- Shift and shift lock work, and capital letters line up with lowercase.
- The ribbon moves and reverses direction at the end of the spool.
- The margin bell rings and the margin stops hold.
- The paper feeds straight and the roller grips it.
The rubber roller, called the platen, often hardens with age, which makes typing louder and can affect print quality. Platens can be recovered, but buyers want to know about it.
Condition and completeness
- Case: many portables came with a carrying case, and the original case in good shape adds appeal.
- Keytops: check for cracked, missing or replaced keys. Old typewriter keys are sometimes removed to make jewelry, and a machine with missing keys is much less appealing.
- Finish: paint, decals and chrome. Note rust, pitting and scratches.
- Extras: manuals, cleaning brushes, spare ribbon spools and covers.
Cleaning and care
Dust the machine with a soft brush and wipe the body gently. Avoid spraying oil or household lubricants into the mechanism, where they can attract dust and make parts sticky. If a machine needs real work, a typewriter repair shop can service it.
Red flags when buying
- A machine described as working with no typed sample.
- Repainted bodies sold as original finish without saying so.
- Decorative replicas made to look antique, which do not type.
- Photos that hide the keyboard or the carriage.
Photograph it for a scan and a listing
- The machine from the front, slightly above, in daylight on a plain background.
- The keyboard and the model name, sharp and readable.
- A typed sample showing every letter, number and symbol.
- The serial number, the case and any damage.
Where typewriters sell
- Local selling: typewriters are heavy and easily damaged in transit, so local pickup is often best.
- General marketplaces: a wide audience for portables and sought-after models.
- Repair shops and collector groups: help with identification and buyers who want specific machines.
If you ship, lock the carriage if the machine has a lock, pad it well inside a sturdy box rather than relying on the case alone, and work out what you keep after selling once shipping comes off.
Common mistakes
- Listing without testing every key.
- Oiling the mechanism.
- Shipping a typewriter in its carrying case alone.
Where WorthAI fits
WorthAI identifies the likely make and model from a photo, gives an estimated worth with a range and a suggested asking price, reads buyer demand and shows the marketplace listings behind the estimate, so you can check that the model, case and condition match. Add a photo of the model name or serial number if WorthAI asks for more detail, or tap Refine Result.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell how old my typewriter is?
Find the serial number on the frame and compare it with collector serial number lists for that make and model. The design and features also help narrow the era.
Are broken typewriters worth anything?
Some are, especially sought-after models that a buyer can repair or use for parts. Describe exactly what does not work, and expect less than for a working machine.
Should I oil an old typewriter before selling it?
No. Oil and household lubricants can attract dust and make parts sticky. Brush out dust and leave servicing to a typewriter repair shop.