Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter Value Guide

The Underwood No. 5 is widely considered the most successful typewriter design in history, having perfected the 'visible writing' mechanism upon its 1900 release. This American-made desktop staple defined the modern office aesthetic for decades and remains a cornerstone for any serious antique machinery collection.

What Is Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter Worth?

The typical price range for Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter is $75 - $85 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality, specifically the smoothness of the carriage return and the clarity of the typebar strikes.
• The preservation of the gold leaf decals and the condition of the black enamel finish on the heavy cast iron frame.
• The clarity and integrity of the glass-topped keys, as cracked or yellowed inserts can diminish the $75-$85 market value.
• The presence of original components such as the ribbon spools and the condition of the rubber platen roller.

How to Identify Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter?

• Look for the 'Underwood' name prominently displayed in gold lettering across the paper table and the front frame base.
• Verify the front-strike mechanism which allows the typebars to hit the front of the platen, making the text immediately visible.
• Check for the signature black enameled cast iron frame and the characteristic glass-topped keys with white or cream inserts.
• Locate the serial number stamped on the right side of the frame under the carriage to confirm a production date between 1900 and 1932.

History of Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter

The Underwood No. 5 is arguably the most successful typewriter design in history. Released in 1900, it perfected the 'visible writing' mechanism, allowing typists to see what they were typing as they typed it. By the 1920s, millions had been sold, and it became the industry standard for offices worldwide, effectively defining the layout and look of the modern typewriter for decades.