Collecting typewriters has become quite a popular hobby in recent years and finding reasonably priced machines isn’t too difficult if you know where to look. Finding vintage Underwood typewriters is a fairly easy task, as this was one of the major manufacturers and there are still many models in decent condition. So where do we start?

If you live near a thrift store, this is a good place to look. The good side of this is that if you find an old Underwood machine, it is likely to be in good condition and very cheap. The downside is that it’s not often that these types of shops put old typewriters on the floor. People in the back don’t see the collectible value and many are thrown away. So if you live nearby, please stop by and check us out when you can. I have seen vintage Underwood silent models sold for $5.00 at these stores!

Craigslist is an online classifieds site that always has typewriters for sale. It works like a regular classified newspaper ad. You will need to call or email the seller and make an appointment. The good side of this is that you can communicate with the buyer and make sure the trip is worth it. Often they won’t know what they have and may just list “antique typewriter for sale” on the site. This is where you can really cash in! Call and see if it’s an old Underwood. Imagine finding out that they have an antique Underwood model 3 or 5 typewriter or a nice Champion model that they want to sell fast and cheap! Prepare to negotiate too. Most of the sellers on this site want quick money so make sure you have it and don’t be afraid to bargain!

Yard/garage sales are another great source for vintage or vintage Underwood machines if you’re into this sort of thing. Some people really enjoy going to summer garage sales, enjoying the sun and fresh air. If you are one of these people, you are bound to come across an old Underwood somewhere in your travels and you can really score a bargain! Many of these sales are organized to clean out the basement and attic. Money is secondary to getting rid of the “junk” that takes up space. I once bought an old 1920s Underwood laptop with white on green keys for $3.00! That beauty! It’s not uncommon to find a vintage Underwood manual from the early 1900’s, complete with box and owner’s manual at these summer sales.

Ebay is truly a modern marvel in itself! You can find just about anything on that site, and vintage typewriters are no exception, including many Underwood models. The best thing about eBay is the fantastic search tool. You can find exactly the model you want if you know what you are looking for. Type Underwood 4, you’ll probably see a few listings. Just type “Underwood Typewriter” and you’ll get a few pages! Although you most likely won’t find any “steals” on eBay, you can get more than a fair deal and the selection is better than anywhere on the planet – literally! If you know what you want, this is a great place to visit.

You have friends? I hope so! This is so simple that it is often overlooked. Ask your friends and family if they have an old typewriter or if they know someone who does. Many people have these old machines hidden in their attics or garages and have no intention of using them. Many times they have even forgotten that they were there, but if you jog their memory by mentioning it, they will remember it instantly. Chances are someone you ask has, or knows someone who has, an antique Underwood typewriter on their backs. Of course you have to offer them something for the machine, but you’d be surprised how many people will give it to you, and free is the best offer ever!