National Cash Register Model 452 Value Guide

The National Cash Register Model 452 is a premier example of early 20th-century American engineering, produced in Dayton, Ohio between 1908 and 1915. Its ornate Renaissance Revival brass casing and 'Dolphin' pattern were designed to elevate the machine from a mere tool to a piece of high-end furniture.

What affects the value of National Cash Register Model 452?

• The condition and patina of the brass finish, with unpolished original surfaces often commanding a premium.
• Mechanical functionality, specifically the ability of the keys to trigger the bell and pop up the price flags.
• The integrity of the wooden base and the presence of the original marble slab without cracks or chips.
• Completeness of internal components and original paper tape rolls or ink ribbons.

How to Identify National Cash Register Model 452?

• Verify the presence of the intricate 'Dolphin' pattern cast into the heavy brass exterior panels.
• Check for the original wooden drawer base and the white marble slab located just above the cash drawer.
• Locate the Model 452 designation on the serial number plate, typically found on the front or side of the machine.
• Confirm the presence of the glass top display which shows the transaction amount to both the clerk and customer.

History of National Cash Register Model 452

The National Cash Register Company of Dayton, Ohio, dominated the world market for registers in the early 20th century. This Model 452 features the Dolphin pattern, one of several intricate cast-metal designs the company used to make their machines appear as high-end furniture. These registers were engineered to be tamper-proof, ensuring shop owners that every transaction was recorded.