Singer Model 27 from 1902: serial number dating, identification & value guide

Quick value range for a 1902 Singer Model 27

A Singer Model 27 made in 1902 (often mounted in a treadle cabinet) is an antique with steady decorative and practical demand. In most local U.S. markets, these trade in the low hundreds, with higher outcomes when the cabinet is attractive and the machine is complete and functional.

As a practical starting point, many complete treadle examples sell around $200–$500. For the commonly referenced serial K394163 (dated to 1902 and typically associated with a Model 27), a reasonable working range is often $350–$450 when the cabinet is in good condition and the machine is complete.

Typical ranges by presentation:

• Head only (no cabinet), non-working/as-is: often ~$50–$150.
• Complete treadle in cabinet, as-is: often ~$150–$350.
• Clean, working, attractive decals + cabinet: often ~$300–$600.
• Exceptional decals, rare cabinet, accessories, documented provenance: can exceed ~$600+.

Note: shipping cost is a major value factor. Auction, local pickup, and insurance values can differ widely.

Confirm the model and year using the serial number

If you’re trying to confirm whether your machine is a Singer Model 27 (and whether it’s truly from 1902), start with the serial number stamped into the machine bed. Singer serial ranges can often date the year of manufacture and narrow down the model family.

A practical workflow:

1. Photograph the serial number clearly (letters + digits).
2. Look up the letter prefix in a Singer serial-number database (this usually indicates a production block and year range).
3. Cross-check the mechanism (especially the shuttle/bobbin system) so you don’t rely on a swapped cabinet or head.

For example, serial K394163 is commonly listed as a 1902 Singer serial and is frequently associated with a Model 27. Use the serial lookup as your date anchor, then use the photo checklist below to confirm details that affect value.

Identification checklist: what buyers and appraisers photograph

For Singer treadle machines, photos do most of the identification work. The goal is to show enough detail that a buyer (or appraiser) can confirm the model family, see the cabinet quality, and understand how complete the machine is.

• Serial number close-up: letters + digits in sharp focus.
• Full head (left and right): show overall shape and missing parts.
• Decals and finish: close-ups of gold decals and any flaking/overpainting.
• Shuttle/bobbin area: open the slide plate to show the shuttle type and throat plate.
• Handwheel + bobbin winder: show whether it turns freely and how the drive parts look.
• Cabinet/table: top, sides, drawers, and underside (veneers and water damage matter).
• Accessories: attachments/feet, tins, tools, and any manuals stored in drawers.

If you only take three photos: serial number, full machine in cabinet, and the shuttle/bobbin area.

What changes value the most (and what doesn’t)

Most Singer Model 27 machines are not “rare” in the way high-end collectors use the term. Value comes from presentation, completeness, and usability — especially because many buyers want these for décor and occasional sewing.

These are the biggest drivers:

• Cabinet quality: an ornate oak cabinet with intact drawers/veneers can be a major portion of the value.
• Decal survival: crisp original decals support value; heavy overpainting typically lowers it.
• Working condition: “turns freely and sews” usually outperforms “unknown / seized.”
• Completeness: missing drive parts, treadle components, or shuttle parts are priced in quickly.
• Accessories: attachment sets and manuals can improve saleability, even if they don’t double the price.

What usually doesn’t add meaningful value: vague claims that “all old Singers are worth thousands,” or unverified “rare” stories without details. The market pays for what it can see and verify.

Cleaning and service: safe steps before you list

Small improvements can help value, but aggressive restoration can backfire — especially if decals get damaged or the cabinet gets sanded. If you’re not a sewing-machine technician, keep your prep conservative:

• Dust and wipe gently: use a soft cloth and mild cleaner on wood; avoid abrasive pads on decals.
• Oil correctly: only sewing-machine oil on appropriate points (avoid household oils and avoid soaking).
• Replace consumables: a belt and needle are normal replacements and don’t “ruin originality.”
• Don’t repaint the head: repainting typically lowers value for collectors.
• Document what you did: a short note (“cleaned, oiled, belt replaced”) builds buyer confidence.

If the machine is seized, missing key parts, or has timing issues, consider selling it as-is rather than forcing repairs. Many buyers prefer an honest “project machine” description over a half‑repaired mechanism.

Selling options (and how to price realistically)

Singer treadle machines are heavy, which shapes the best sales path. Your highest-dollar sale might not be your easiest sale — decide what you care about (speed vs maximum price vs no-hassle pickup).

• Local pickup marketplace: usually the fastest; price competitively and show the cabinet clearly.
• Antique shop / consignment: higher asking prices, but slower and with commission.
• Online shipping: usually best for the head only (remove from cabinet); full cabinets are expensive to freight.

When comparing results online, filter to sold listings and match the configuration (head-only vs cabinet, decal condition, accessories, working status). A short video of the handwheel turning and a stitch sample can build trust quickly.

Cabinet vs head-only: the fastest way to predict your price

Two Model 27 machines with the same production year can sell for very different amounts if one is a plain cabinet and the other is an ornate, intact piece of furniture. Before you set a price, answer these questions:

• Is the cabinet structurally sound? drawers slide, lid hinges work, treadle pedal isn’t cracked.
• Is veneer intact? missing veneer and water staining lower appeal.
• Are decals original and readable? heavy flaking or repainting lowers collector interest.
• Is it complete? belt present, shuttle parts present, presser foot and needle system intact.
• Do you have accessories? attachment sets and manuals help the listing look “complete.”

When in doubt, photograph the cabinet and drawers as carefully as the machine head. For many buyers, the cabinet is the purchase.

How to sell a Singer treadle sewing machine safely

Because these are heavy and often sold locally, most issues come from unclear condition and pickup logistics. A few practical best practices:

• Write a precise title: include “Singer Model 27,” the serial number, and whether the cabinet is included.
• Show the serial number in photos: it reduces “is this really 1902?” back-and-forth.
• Disclose working status honestly: “turns freely,” “needs belt,” “seized,” etc.
• Photograph cabinet flaws: veneer loss and water stains matter — hiding them causes returns and renegotiation.
• Be cautious with off-platform pressure: rushed payment requests and shipping scams happen in heavy-item listings too.

If your machine is exceptionally clean, has a high-end cabinet, or includes a complete attachment set, a documented appraisal can help you defend a higher asking price (and can support insurance/estate documentation).