⌨️ Value guide

How Much Are Typewriters Worth?

Working vintage typewriters sell for $50–$400 depending on brand, era and condition — with portables from the 1930s–60s in the sweet spot. Buyers are writers and decorators, so working condition and looks both matter. Certain models (Hermes 3000, Olympia SM series, Olivetti Valentine) have cult followings that push prices far higher.

✓ Free plan✓ No card required✓ Prices from your country's marketplaces

What decides the value of typewriters

Portables beat desktops

Compact mid-century portables sell best. Heavy office standards are harder to ship and fetch less despite being older.

Cult models

Hermes 3000/Baby, Olympia SM3–SM9, Olivetti Lettera 22/32 and the design-icon Olivetti Valentine command premiums. Cursive/script typefaces add 50–100%.

Working order

All keys striking, carriage advancing, ribbon holding — a serviced machine is worth double an untested one.

Color & looks

Unusual colors (mint green, pink, two-tone) sell to decorators at strong premiums over standard black/grey.

Typical price ranges

Broad secondhand-market ranges to orient you — the exact value of your item depends on the precise model, edition and condition. Scan it for the real number.

Untested/decor-grade machines
sold for looks
$25–$70
Working common portables
Smith-Corona, Royal, Remington
$80–$200
Cult models, working
Hermes, Olympia, Olivetti
$200–$600
Olivetti Valentine & rarities
design-museum territory
$300–$900+
⚡ Get the exact price for your typewriter

💡 How FlipTip prices it

Point your camera at the item. FlipTip identifies the exact model, edition and era, checks real listings on your country's marketplaces, and gives you a price range, a sell-speed score and a worth-it-or-skip verdict — before you buy or sell.

Typewriters — FAQ

How do I identify my typewriter's model?

The model name is usually on the front panel or paper table, and a serial number under the carriage dates it precisely. Or scan it — FlipTip identifies brand and model from the photo and checks what that exact machine sells for.

Are old typewriters actually in demand?

Yes — a steady niche of writers, students and decorators buys them, and film/prop buyers pay well for specific eras. Cursive-typeface machines have waiting lists.

Should I clean or repair before selling?

Basic cleaning and a fresh ribbon (still manufactured, ~$10) noticeably raise the price. Leave deeper repairs to buyers unless you know the mechanics.

More value guides

Stop guessing at the shelf

Thrift store, garage sale, flea market or your own attic — scan the item and know in seconds if it's a find or a pass.

📸 Scan an item free