Underwood Typewriter Value & Price Guide

Underwood typewriters represent the gold standard of early 20th-century office technology and are highly sought after by collectors for their iconic design and mechanical reliability. From the legendary No. 5 desktop model to the sleek portable versions of the 1930s, these machines defined the aesthetic of the modern writing era.

Price Range: $190 - $250 based on recent sales

History of Underwood Typewriter

The Underwood Typewriter Company was founded by John Thomas Underwood in 1895 after his family's ribbon and carbon paper business was threatened by Remington's decision to manufacture their own supplies. The company revolutionized the industry with the release of the Underwood No. 5 in 1900, which featured a front-strike design that allowed typists to see their work as they typed—a feature known as 'visible writing' that soon became the industry standard. By the early 20th century, Underwood was the largest typewriter manufacturer in the world, producing millions of machines that were used by famous authors and government agencies alike. Despite its dominance, the company eventually merged with Olivetti in the 1960s as the market shifted toward electric models and digital technology.

Value Factors for Underwood Typewriter

The typical price range for Underwood Typewriter is $190 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality and the ease of key movement.
• Rarity of the model, such as the early 'Noiseless' variants or specific 4-bank portables.
• The condition of the paint, specifically the glossiness of the black enamel and the clarity of the gold lettering.
• Originality of accessories, including the wooden or metal carrying case and the original cleaning kit.

Tips for Buying Underwood Typewriter

• Inspect the rubber platen for excessive hardening or cracking, as this affects the machine's ability to grip paper.
• Verify that the 'drawband' is intact, as a broken carriage string is a common issue that prevents the typewriter from advancing.
• Check for the presence of the original glass keycaps on older models, which are more valuable than the later plastic replacements.
• Ensure the decals and gold pinstriping are well-preserved, as these decorative elements significantly impact the display value.

Items in This Collection

• Underwood No. 5 Standard Typewriter
• Underwood No. 5 Typewriter
• Underwood 11 Typewriter
• Underwood Standard Portable Typewriter
• Underwood No. 4 Typewriter
• Underwood Noiseless Portable Typewriter
• Underwood Champion Typewriter
• Underwood Leader Typewriter
• Underwood Universal Portable Typewriter
• Underwood Standard Typewriter
• Underwood No. 3 Typewriter
• Underwood 4 Bank Portable Typewriter
• Underwood Portable 4 Bank Typewriter
• Underwood Master Typewriter