This listing is for a vintage Corona model 3 folding typewriter (serial #416079). The most recent patent date is July 10, 1917. The typewriter is in good condition overall with scuffs and wear from use. The keys all seemed to work when we tried them although one or two would stick now and then. The space bar doesn't seem to work but maybe it just needs some lubrication or adjustment; we aren't sure. The ribbon holders are bent a bit on the ends and one is missing its top. The typewriter does not come with the case or any parts or accessories. Due to the nature of vintage typewriters, it's selling as-is. This listing has no reserve price so don't miss your chance to win!
The winning bidder can also pick up this item at our store in Winooski, Vermont to save on shipping charges. All local pickups are subject to 6% Vermont state sales tax.
From Typewritermuseum.org:
"The Corona 3 replaced the Standard Folding in 1912. It was one of the most successful machines in typewriter history, with more than 600,000 machines built and sold over a period of almost 30 years. The machine presented here was built around 1919. The folding Corona 3 (the model number follows the Standard Folding models 1 and 2) originally appeared as a machine with pivot bearing type bars...with shift keys only on the left. Later, the machine was built with a regular segment to hold the typebars...shift keys on the left and right and other improvements. In the late 1920s Corona introduced a range of Corona Specials, in different bright colors, like red, green and blue. The main design however, with the forward folding carriage remained the same through the decades. Unchanged also remained the way the serial number of each machine was clumsily scratched into the underside of the carriage, although it was also neatly printed on the inside of the rear panel.
"In 1926 the Corona factory merged with the L.C. Smith Typewriter Company to form the Smith-Corona company. The Corona company produced a number of special accessories for the machine, such as the label holder...and a special tripod that allowed the machine literally to be used in the field. The tripod also had a foldout section on the side for copy or notes. This tripod is very rare and the value exceeds that of the actual machine many times. The Corona Folding was exported and sold to different countries and is not an uncommon sight on flea markets around the USA and Europe."