Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

When was the typewriter invented?

1 Answer
When was the typewriter invented?
The typewriter was invented in 1867. However, the inventors Christopher Latham Sholes, Carlos Glidden and Samuel W. Soule didn’t receive a patent until 1868. In 1873, their design went into production and hit the markets. These early typewriters were usually mounted on sewing machine stands. On 1stDibs, find a collection of typewriters.
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Shop for Typewriter Desk on 1stDibs
Small Bauhaus Tubular Steel Desk, Oak Veneer and Chromium Plated Metal c 1930
By Marcel Breuer
Located in Berlin, DE
Small Bauhaus tubular steel desk, so-called 'typewriter desk', with 4 drawers.
Category

Vintage 1930s German Bauhaus Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Early George Nelson Desk / Return, Child's Desk, Modernist, Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Buffalo, NY
Original designed for larger desk, return, typewriter desk. Classic Modernist design, Aluminum 'L' hand pulls.
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

Art Deco Royal KHM Standard Typewriter c.1935
By Royal Typewriter Company 1
Located in San Francisco, CA
ABOUT An Art Deco Royal KHM series standard typewriter with black high gloss finish and gull wings. The nickel keys are glass with black and gold letters. Completely cleaned with ne...
Category

Early 20th Century Art Deco More Desk Accessories

Materials

Metal, Steel, Nickel

Smith-Corona Coronet Super 12 Electric Typewriter, Mid-Century 1970
By L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc
Located in Wheat Ridge, CO
An exceptional period piece for collectors of vintage typewriters and American industrial design.
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Materials

Metal

Antique LC Smith & Corona Super Speed Typewriter c.1942
By L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc
Located in San Francisco, CA
ABOUT An original LC Smith & Corona Typewriter with a 14 inch carriage. The serial number is 1A1758024-12 stamped in the inside. The keys are nickel with black face and white nu...
Category

Early 20th Century Industrial More Desk Accessories

Materials

Metal, Steel

Antique Smith-Corona Sterling Portable Typewriter and Case c.1946
By L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc
Located in San Francisco, CA
ABOUT An antique Smith-Corona Sterling typewriter in matte black finish with four high gloss black stripes, silver lettering and original case. The keys are nickle in high gloss bla...
Category

Early 20th Century Industrial More Desk Accessories

Materials

Metal, Steel, Nickel

Shop All