The Cost of an Underwood Typewriter in 1924: Insights and Analysis
A simple Google search might suggest that Underwood typewriters from the early 1920s are worth between $500 to $1000 today. However, the value of these machines can vary significantly depending on whether you're buying them or selling them. As the saying goes, buyer beware and seller beware! Good luck!
Understanding the Cost Context of 1924
To provide a more accurate context, it's essential to look at the specific print advertisements or shop pricelists from the 1920s. Underwood, Siemens, and Olympia were renowned for their wide range of typewriter models. For instance, a print advertisement from the Literary Digest USA in November 1924 shown on eBay indicates a down payment of $3, but its final hire-purchase price is unclear.
The Expensive Nature of Typewriters
Throughout the 1950s, most typewriters were either leased, rented, or purchased on a hire-purchase plan. Even in the 1980s, many typewriters, including early personal computers, were acquired through hire purchase or installment plans. This practice continued well into the late 20th century.
The Historical Perspective
The world's first commercial typewriter, designed by E. Remington Sons—known as the Sholes Giddens Model—as originally retailed for $128 in the 1890s. By the time we reach the 1920s, these machines cost roughly $120 each. Adjusted for modern purchasing power, this translates to about $2500 in today's currency. This price remained consistent through the 1940s and didn't begin to drop until well after World War II.
Typewriter Pricing Evolution
The 1940s saw a print ad from American companies selling refurbished office typewriters on hire purchase. A typical cash price was $39.85, which was the original manufacturer's price of $125. The installment payment was a mere 70 cents per week. Chicago-based International Typewriter Exchange (ITEx) was a prominent reseller in the world of typewriters during this period.
The Typewriter's Popularity and Models
Typewriters were primarily office equipment until the late 1960s and early 1970s when the introduction of 'traveller' portable models brought them into homes as well. Early desktop models, such as the Underwood portable typing machine, which was manufactured in Yugoslavia and acquired in the 1980s for ￡50, have held up remarkably well and are still in active use.
My own office is equipped with two typewriters in regular use: a manual Olympia office model worth around $220 and an electric IBM Selectric II golfball model, which was purchased for $810 in the early 1970s. These machines have stood the test of time and continue to perform their essential functions.
Conclusion
The cost of an Underwood typewriter in 1924 was significantly higher relative to today's currency due to the prevailing economic and business practices of the time. Understanding these historical factors can provide valuable insights into the early market for these machines. Whether you're a collector or a researcher, this perspective can enrich your understanding of the typewriter's evolution and enduring appeal.