How To Determine Sewing Machine Value

By Mark Jackson

There are many sewing collectors out there, and lot's of people believe that Singer machines are best. For many, the antique Singer sewing machine value is mostly, or partially, sentimental. Machines were usually passed on to other family members. This does not, however, mean that antique Singer machine value lies purely in the sentimental, or in the family tree. Collectors enjoy the quality and workmanship.

Singer started to manufacture sewing machines back in 1851, later on in 1856, was when the first home model came into existence. They were offered on a credit payback plan.

These earlier models were stand mounted and featured one pedal while later models featured lock-stitch shuttles (patented by Singer in 1859) and two pedals. They were so popular, that they even had their own action figure and die cast models for kids. The action figure and the die cast models are in their own class of collectible.

Over the next several decades, Singer focused on creating more affordable models for home-use through mass production, leaving the original beauties behind. In the early 1900s, cabinet enclosures and even flip-top sewing machine tables were made, followed by various changes that lead to today's plastic models.

The original models from the mid to late 1800s and are in good condition, can easily fetch thousands of dollars for heavy sewing machine enthusiasts. While condition is certainly a factor, antique Singer sewing machine value is more concerned with the year the machine was made, over the condition of the machine. That being said, the better condition a machine is, the more it is worth. A great year in great shape is what people are all looking for these days.

Factors that may be considered in determining the value of your antique Singer sewing machine include decoration on the machine and whether it is older, with a one pedal treadle or two pedal treadles. In addition, if the machine is in working condition with all of the original parts, the value will rise substantially. To get information about your pre-1900 Singer sewing machine, you can contact the Singer manufacturer at 1-800-4-SINGER for a verbal appraisal and have your model type, serial number and wits ready. - 30408

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