Old Royal Typewriter Value Guide: What Is Your Vintage Machine Worth?

Royal typewriters represent an iconic piece of American industrial history, coveted by collectors for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’ve discovered a Royal typewriter in an attic, inherited one from a relative, or are looking to start a collection, understanding its potential value is essential. This comprehensive guide will help you identify your Royal typewriter model and determine its worth in today’s collector market.

Royal’s innovation and quality helped them capture significant market share throughout the 20th century. The company produced both standard office models and portable typewriters, with many designs becoming classics of industrial design. Understanding the evolution of Royal typewriters is the first step in determining their value.

The Royal Typewriter Company was established in Brooklyn, New York by Edward B. Hess and Lewis C. Myers.

Royal's first typewriter, the Royal Standard, hit the market featuring a flatbed design.

The Royal Model 10 was introduced with the revolutionary "flatbed" visible typing mechanism.

Royal entered the portable typewriter market with their first compact model.

Introduction of "Touch Control" feature allowing typists to adjust key sensitivity.

Royal introduced the "Magic Margin" feature, simplifying margin setting.

Introduction of Royal's first electric typewriter models.

Royal merged with Litton Industries and later became part of Olivetti.

Serial Number Location

The serial number is crucial for identifying the age of your Royal typewriter. On most Royal models, you can find the serial number:

• On standard models: Under the right side of the carriage when you slide it to the left
• On portable models: On the frame under the ribbon cover or on the back panel
• On some models: On a small plate attached to the back or bottom of the machine

Once you have located the serial number, you can reference it against the Typewriter Database to determine the year of manufacture.

Popular Royal Typewriter Models and Their Identifying Features

Royal produced numerous models throughout its history. Here are some of the most collectible:

Royal Standard/Upright Models (1906-1950s)

• Model 5: Early upright visible model (1910s)
• Model 10: Popular office standard with glass-sided keys (1914-1930s)
• KHM/KMM: Standard office models with “Touch Control” (1930s-1940s)

Royal Portable Models (1926-1970s)

• Royal P: First portable model (1926)
• Royal Portable (various): Compact models from late 1920s-1930s
• Royal Quiet Deluxe: Popular portable model (1940s-1950s)
• Futura: Sleek portable design (late 1950s-1960s)
• Safari/Sabre: Compact, colorful models (1960s)

Special Features to Identify

• “Touch Control”: Key tension adjustment feature (1930s-onward)
• “Magic Margin”: Push-button margin setting (1939-onward)
• Glass-sided keys: Typically on earlier models (pre-1940s)
• Two-tone color schemes: Common on 1950s-1960s portables

Age and Rarity

Generally, Royal typewriters from the 1900s through the 1930s command higher prices due to their age and relative scarcity. However, rarity isn’t strictly determined by age:

• Pre-1920 models are typically the most valuable due to their scarcity
• Limited production models or special editions have premium value
• Models with unusual features or design elements can command higher prices
• Common office models from the 1940s-1960s tend to be less valuable despite their age

Condition Assessment

The condition of your Royal typewriter significantly impacts its value. Collectors prize machines in excellent original condition or those that have been professionally restored.

Aesthetic Appeal and Unique Features

Royal typewriters with distinctive visual appeal or special features often command premium prices:

• Glass-sided keys (common on pre-1940s models)
• Unique or rare color combinations
• Art Deco styling elements
• Custom or special edition models
• Unusual keyboard layouts or special typefaces

Functionality

Working typewriters are generally more valuable than non-working ones, though exceptionally rare models may still have value even if non-functional. Many collectors prefer machines that can be used for typing rather than serving as mere display pieces.

Notable High-Value Royal Typewriters

Some specific Royal typewriter models consistently command higher prices:

• Royal 1 (1906): First model, extremely rare, $2,000-$5,000+
• Royal Grand (1930s): Oversized deluxe model, $800-$2,500
• Royal Quiet Deluxe with custom features or celebrity provenance: $800-$2,500+
• Early Royal portables with glass keys in original case: $600-$1,000
• Royal typewriters with documented historical significance: Prices vary widely

Online Marketplace Trends

According to data from eBay and other online marketplaces, Royal typewriters continue to maintain strong collector interest:

• Average selling price for Royal typewriters on 1stDibs: $450 (with a range from $195 to $2,500)
• Pristine Royal Portable from 1936 recently sold on Etsy for $1,418
• Fully restored 1930s Royal with glass keys typically sells for $425-$600
• Royal Magic Margin models from 1938-1940 in good condition: $200-$350
• 1950s Royal typewriters in working condition: $50-$150
• Non-working Royal typewriters: $80-$120 (often purchased for display or parts)

The condition of the machine is typically the strongest determinant of final selling price, with fully functional, aesthetically pleasing examples commanding significant premiums over worn or non-working examples.

Best Selling Venues

1. Specialty Marketplaces

   • Etsy: Ideal for vintage and antique typewriters
   • eBay: Large audience, especially good for more common models
   • 1stDibs: Premium marketplace for higher-value machines

2. Typewriter Collector Forums and Groups

   • The Typewriter Database Forum
   • Antique Typewriter Collectors Facebook groups
   • TypewriterTalk.com

3. Local Options

   • Antique stores (especially on consignment)
   • Vintage markets and fairs
   • Estate sales companies (for valuable collections)

Preparing Your Typewriter for Sale

To maximize value when selling:

1. Gently clean the exterior without harsh chemicals
2. Ensure basic functionality if possible
3. Gather any original accessories, cases, or documentation
4. Research your specific model using the serial number
5. Take clear, well-lit photographs from multiple angles
6. Write a detailed description noting any special features or history
7. Set a realistic price based on comparable recent sales

Building a Collection

1. Define Your Focus

   • Specific era of Royal typewriters
   • Portable vs. standard models
   • Color variations
   • Technological innovations

2. Research Before Buying

   • Use The Typewriter Database to verify model authenticity
   • Consult reference books on Royal typewriters
   • Join collector forums to learn from experienced collectors

3. Caring for Your Collection

   • Store typewriters in a climate-controlled environment
   • Cover machines to prevent dust accumulation
   • Apply appropriate oils to mechanical parts annually
   • Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals on painted surfaces
   • Consider professional restoration for valuable machines

4. Value Growth Potential

   • Early Royal models continue to appreciate in value
   • Unusual colors or features add premium value
   • Documented provenance can significantly increase worth
   • Complete original accessories enhance collectibility

Comprehensive database of Royal typewriter serial numbers to help identify your machine's production year. Includes galleries of user-submitted photos.

Extensive visual guide to Royal typewriter models with detailed identification information and historical context.

Wikipedia's comprehensive chronological listing of Royal typewriter models by year of introduction.

Current listings of Royal typewriters for sale, providing a real-time view of market prices and availability.

Premium marketplace featuring higher-end Royal typewriters with price guides and detailed descriptions.

Active community of typewriter enthusiasts discussing repairs, values, and collecting strategies.

Detailed analysis of Royal typewriter values organized by model and other key factors.

Community of collectors who provide good faith estimates on typewriter values based on submitted photos.

The best way to determine the age of your Royal typewriter is by using the serial number. Look for the serial number on the frame under the right end of the carriage (when moved to the left), or on the back of portable models. Once you have the serial number, consult the Royal Typewriter database at [typewriterdatabase.com](https://typewriterdatabase.com/royal.72.typewriter-serial-number-database) to find the corresponding production year.

Generally, the earliest Royal models (particularly the Royal 1 from 1906) are the most valuable, potentially worth $2,000-$5,000+ in excellent condition. Other highly valued models include the Royal Grand from the 1930s and early portables with glass keys from the 1920s-1930s. Royal typewriters with documented celebrity ownership or historical significance can command even higher prices.

Electric Royal typewriters typically have lower collector value than manual models, usually selling for $50-$200 depending on condition. Collectors generally prefer the craftsmanship and mechanical nature of manual typewriters. However, some early electric models from the 1950s or unusual variants might command higher prices.

Royal produced numerous models throughout its history, including standard office models (Royal 1, Royal 5, Royal 10, KHM, KMM), portable models (Royal P, Royal Portable, Quiet Deluxe, Arrow, Futura, Safari), and later electric models. Each model often had multiple versions and variants released over years or decades. The company introduced innovations like Touch Control (1930s) and Magic Margin (1939) across multiple model lines.

On standard Royal typewriter models, the serial number is typically located on the frame under the right end of the carriage. Slide the carriage to the left to reveal it. On portable models, the serial number may be on the back panel or under the ribbon cover. Some later models may have the serial number on a small plate attached to the bottom or back of the machine.

A 1950s Royal typewriter typically sells for between $50-$200 in working condition, with fully restored examples potentially reaching $300-$350. The Royal Quiet Deluxe is among the more valuable 1950s models, especially in unusual colors or with special features. Models with original case, documentation, and excellent condition command premium prices. If professionally reconditioned, add $75-$150 to the base value.

For basic cleaning, first use compressed air to remove dust and debris. Gently clean the exterior with a soft cloth slightly dampened with mild soap solution, avoiding excess moisture. For mechanical parts, use appropriate typewriter oil (not WD-40) on moving components. The platen (rubber roller) can be cleaned with specialized rubber rejuvenator. For significant repairs or restoration, consider consulting a professional typewriter repair specialist rather than attempting complex disassembly.

Several factors can significantly increase a Royal typewriter's value: excellent original condition, rare models or variants, early manufacturing dates (especially pre-1930s), unusual colors or design features, glass keys, original case and documentation, documented provenance or historical significance, and professional restoration. Additionally, models with working specialized features like Touch Control or Magic Margin in perfect condition command premium prices.

Royal typewriters occupy a special place in the history of American office equipment, with their distinctive designs and mechanical innovations making them highly sought after by collectors. While values range widely based on model, age, condition, and special features, the market for these vintage machines remains strong as interests in analog technologies and mid-century design continue to grow.

Whether you own a Royal typewriter as an investment, a decorative piece, or a functional writing tool, understanding its value and history adds to the appreciation of these remarkable machines. By properly identifying, maintaining, and (if necessary) restoring your Royal typewriter, you can preserve both its financial value and its historical significance for future generations.

For those looking to sell, being armed with knowledge about your specific model and its place in the Royal typewriter story will help ensure you receive fair market value. And for collectors, each Royal typewriter acquired represents not just a piece of mechanical ingenuity, but a tangible connection to the evolution of communication technology throughout the 20th century.