Angell Model B Pencil Sharpener Value Guide

The Angell Model B is a pinnacle of early 20th-century office engineering, patented by George J. Angell in 1907. It is highly collectible due to its complex planetary gear system and revolving cutters that provide a precision point far superior to standard rotary sharpeners.

What Is Angell Model B Pencil Sharpener Worth?

The typical price range for Angell Model B Pencil Sharpener is $1,200 - $1,320 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality: The smooth operation of the complex shaving action significantly impacts the $1,200-$1,320 price point.
• Condition of the cast iron: Original paint or japanning and a lack of cracks in the frame increase rarity.
• Completeness: Presence of all original steel cutters and the brass fittings is essential for top-tier valuation.
• Provenance: Documented history of use in drafting or bookkeeping offices can add historical value.

How to Identify Angell Model B Pencil Sharpener?

• Verify the presence of the distinct planetary gear mechanism and revolving steel cutters.
• Check for the original cast iron frame and the specific 'Model B' designation markings.
• Ensure the hand-crank features the original wood handle and brass components consistent with 1907-1915 production.
• Look for the George J. Angell patent information typically stamped into the metal housing.

History of Angell Model B Pencil Sharpener

Patented in 1907 by George J. Angell, this machine was a marvel of early 20th-century office engineering. Unlike modern sharpeners that use rotary blades, the Angell utilizes a complex mechanical action to shave the wood and lead precisely. It was marketed for its efficiency and the high quality of the point it produced, which was essential in drafting and bookkeeping offices of the era.