Antique 1918 UNDERWOOD NO. 5 STANDARD TYPEWRITER

Updated August 8, 2026

AVAILABLE for SHIPPING or LOCAL PICKUP > Measuring approximately 17-1/4" W x 12-1/4" D x 8-1/2" H, this antique Underwood No. 5 Standard manual typewriter features the substantial cast-iron frame, four-bank QWERTY keyboard, visible semicircular type basket and exposed mechanical workings characteristic of the celebrated early office machine. The carriage retains the black cylindrical platen, paper supports, margin scale, carriage-return lever and adjustment controls, with the Underwood name prominently displayed across the rear paper table. Introduced at the turn of the 20th century, the Underwood No. 5 became the defining form of the modern standard typewriter. Its front-strike, visible-writing mechanism allowed the operator to see the text while typing, while the open construction provided direct access to the type bars and working components. Approximately five million examples were manufactured during a production run extending from about 1900 through the early 1930s, establishing the model as one of the most commercially successful and influential typewriter designs ever produced. The machine retains its round glass-covered keytops with metal rims, dual-color character scale, bell, carriage mechanism, type bars and much of the original black japanned finish with gilt Underwood lettering. The exposed cast frame and complex arrangement of gears, springs, levers and linkages give the piece particular visual appeal for an industrial, office, library or literary-themed display. The serial number stamped beneath the right side of the carriage reads ~ 1089956 ~ dating the machine to approximately 1918. CONDITION REPORT > As discovered, not cleaned or altered, offered as shown, seemingly well preserved. Exhibits some accumulated dust, as well as typical and minor elmenets relative to age and materials. Basic mechanical operation tested and seems to be acceptable, however no representation is made regarding complete functionality, adjustment or completeness beyond the components visible in the photographs. The carriage, keyboard and exposed mechanisms appear substantially present, but professional servicing and replacement parts should be anticipated before operational use.

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