Ohmer Cash Register Value Guide
- Period
- 1900-1920
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- Wood, metal, glass
- Category
- Cash register
The Ohmer Fare Register Company of Dayton, Ohio, produced these robust mechanical registers as a durable alternative to NCR models during the early 20th century. These machines are highly collectible for their unique wooden cabinetry and their historical association with early American transport and retail services.
What affects the value of Ohmer Cash Register?
- The condition and finish of the wood casing, as cracks or water damage significantly reduce the $300-$400 valuation.
- Mechanical functionality, specifically whether the manual levers and internal gears still rotate and reset correctly.
- Completeness of original parts, including the glass panels, metal trim, and internal register components.
- Rarity of the specific model's configuration, particularly those used in specialized transport services versus general retail.
How to Identify Ohmer Cash Register?
- Look for the 'Ohmer Fare Register Co.' manufacturer plate typically located on the front or base of the unit.
- Verify the presence of the original wooden casing, which distinguishes Ohmer models from the more common brass-heavy registers of the era.
- Check for the specific manual lever or crank operation characteristic of 1900-1920 mechanical engineering.
- Inspect the glass display windows for original fare or price indicators used by the Ohmer system.
History of Ohmer Cash Register
Ohmer Fare Register Company, based in Dayton, Ohio, was a notable manufacturer of fare registers and later cash registers. While National Cash Register dominated the market, Ohmer produced innovative and robust machines that were particularly popular for transport services and smaller retail establishments. This specific model reflects the craftsmanship and mechanical ingenuity of its era, before electronic systems became prevalent.
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