Early
Antique & Vintage
Patented Sewing Machines

This is just a sample of the many antique sewing machines we have sold.
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Special Note Concerning Prices Seen Below:
Most prices seen reflect actual sale results from this website.
Prices seen span a long period of time and may not reflect current values.  Some are selling for more, many now sell for less.
On some pieces you will see no price, or a price range, with or without an explanation.  The reasons for that are discussed on the FAQ page.

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Hancock Patent TSM / Toy Sewing Machine  Sewing machines based on the Henry J. Hancock patents from the 1860's are well known, highly regarded, and turn up from time to time.  They are considered pretty rare, and rightfully so.  There are several different styles or variants that are typically seen.  Do a Google image search for "Hancock Patent Sewing Machine" and you will see many of the ones I have had and sold over the years.  Some are marked with one patent date, I have had them with three dates, and some, like this one, with no markings at all.  You can read their descriptions on our archive site www.Antiqbuyer.com.

This version is unique.  This machine's design, with a large decorated cast iron mounting plate, is a feature that has never been seen before.  I have had Hancock sewing machines with the same style head, but the spool pin was mounted differently on each, one with a patented folding design.  The condition of this rare and unique machine is like new, with 98% of the original paint and decoration.  It has its original hooked needle.  There are no apologies. 

A bit of history.  This rare machine first turned up on eBay about 15 years ago.  This variant had never been seen before that.  Usually when something odd and unusual turns up on eBay and brings good money several more appear shortly afterward, with sellers trying to cash in at that elevated price that the first one bought.  Generally that works for the first one or two, and then prices drop as the demand fades.  That did not happen after this machine brought over 3K on eBay.  No other examples appeared right after or since.  A rare machine in exceptional condition!  Opportunity!

Good + . . . . . . . $ SOLD!!

Wilcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine  This Wilcox & Gibbs sewing machine is in overall nice condition. It has a grooved drive wheel indicating it was on a treadle stand at one point. The Wilcox & Gibbs is an interesting looking machine by one of the most prolific and well known makers of the 19th - 20th century. There is lots of patent and other information on the sew plate. Very Nice.

Good + . . . . . $175.00         SOLD!!

Pratt Patent "Ladies Companion" Patent 1857 Sewing Machine  Samuel F. Pratt of Massachusetts was granted 2 different patents in 1857 - 1858 for machines of this type. The serial # on this exceptional condition example is 110.  The sew plate is stamped with just the earlier Feb 3 1857 date.  Both patents are easily found on Google.  In her Smithsonian-sponsored book on sewing machines Grace Cooper has a section on the historical significance of this machine and its inventor Samuel F. Pratt of Massachusetts.

It has been suggested that this machine was only marketed for a couple of years, and there are just a handful known, including one in the Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.  Most sewing machine collectors have never seen one much less had an opportunity to purchase one. 

This rare antique sewing machine is in exceptional all-original condition with no breaks, cracks or condition issues.  It stands approx. 28" tall, and the table is 12" square.  The original green finish is well over 90% and the gold highlights are super.  It still has its original leather drive belt, and the operation is flawless. 

An opportunity to own one of the rarest of all American Patented Sewing Machines, a piece of American history and true Americana that may well never be available again.  Rare and Nice!!

Good + . . . . . . .  SOLD!!

Charles A. Durgin Patent Sewing Machine   This is a very rare, and probably unique, pre Civil War era sewing machine.  It incorporates a shuttle mechanism to make a two thread stitch that was a very advanced idea for a sewing machine patented this early.  Charles A. Durgin was granted his patent on May 22 1855.  The patent # is 12902.  The patent shows a later looking two arm sewing machine, but does mention the use of a shuttle to create a two thread stitch.  Charles Durgin was from New York, New York when the patent was first issued.  According to Google Patents the patent was reissued on June 15th 1858 and again gives the location as New York.

The ID plate on this machine gives Lowell Mass as the location.  It is not known if this sewing machine was an earlier model or later attempt, but given the look and similarities to early Grover & Baker machines I think it is a first model of his idea and that he went to the 2 arm design for the patent application.  It is a large, heavy and graphic looking sewing machine.  The table measures almost 10 1/2" x 11 1/2" and the wheel dia. is approx 8"  It weighs in at close to 50 lbs.  Its outward look is very similar to early model Grover & Baker sewing machines from the same era.  The finish is original and in overall nice condition noting minor losses.  The hand painted decorations of flowers and other highlights are nicely done. 

Different, RARE, and very nice!!

Good + . . . . . . . $ SOLD!!

Triumph Wood Body Patented Toy Sewing Machine The Triumph is a scarce TSM / miniature sewing machine that features one of the most unusual and graphic designs that was ever thought up for a TSM / toy sewing machine! The round body is all wood, painted black and has applied decals for the Triumph name and vine & berry decorations.

There is a metal backing plate to add strength and allow the metal parts to operate. The wooden body was designed with a small section of frame that could be removed to allow fabric to pass through while sewing and then replaced when not in use. It is believed to have been manufactured by the Foley & Williams Co. and is simply marked "Patent" on the nickel plated sew plate.

This example is 100% complete with all of its original parts, including the removable section and its retaining pin. It has a walking presser foot mechanism. The tensioner and spool pin are both present. It has some wear to the name and other decals as seen, but is in overall very nice condition. A "top-shelf" small TSM sewing machine for the collection.

Good +. . . . . . 850.00      SOLD!!

"Cute" Integral Clamp Sewing Machine Patented March 10 & 11 1886 This small integral clamp sewing machine dates from the 1880's.  It was a short lived idea and it is thought no more than a couple - few thousand were made and sold.  They are a hard to find sewing machine and not many appear on the market.  There is one pictured in Vol. II of Glenda Thomas' book on sewing machines.  That one is from a sewing machine museum in Texas.  Carter Bays pictures one in his book on sewing machines as well.  This is only the second or third one I have had or seen in 30 some years.  I was able to find one old eBay result for over $1500 for a lesser condition example.

The sew plate is marked with patent info / date of March 10 & 11 1886.  Those are what are known as "bad dates" being March 10 & 11 1866 were a Wednesday and Thursday and patents were only granted on Tuesdays.  I could not make any patent come up just using 1886 and sewing machine.  Little other info on this machine known as the "Cute" comes up using Google and its given name.   The drive mechanism is very unique with a cross design on the back of the large crank wheel and not gears typically used to drive early sewing machines like this.

Minor losses to the paint, but overall very nice condition with lots of original decoration and highlights as well.  Hard to find!!

Fine . . . . . . . $1250.00      SOLD!!

"Daisy" Child Size Antique Sewing Machine  A rare and unusual TSM looking for its treadle base or the optional table clamp that can be found for it.  The Daisy Treadle TSM Sewing Machine is considered the best of the toy treadles that can be found.  I have never seen the version with a removable auxiliary table clamp.  A rare thing. 

The cosmetic condition of this unusual sewing machine is great with nearly all the original black finish & gold decoration remaining. It runs freely and smoothly.  It has its original needle. The sew plate has had some nickel loss but is not rusty or pitted.  It is marked with the company name, location of Cleveland Ohio, Patented July 3rd 1887 and the word Improved. The serial number is 103732.

In the treadle version the drive wheel fits through a slot cut in the table top so the machine can sit flat.  With the aux clamp, the wheel sits to the outside of the table edge.  This machine will look great mounted on a block of wood so that wheel is not the first thing to hit the table.  Different, Rare, and Nice!!

Fine . . . . . . . $995.00     SOLD!!

Hook Patent Sewing Machine  The cosmetic condition of this unusual sewing machine is great with nearly all the original finish and decoration remaining.  That is probably because a small spring inside is broken and it would not operate properly. The spring is still present, but will not attach as it was designed to due to a small break in it.  It is repairable.

In her Smithsonian-sponsored book on sewing machines Grace Cooper states that Albert Hook was granted the patent for this unusual machine on November 30th 1858.  The machine is marked with that date.  I could not find that patent using Google.  In the index she calls off a number of 22179.  When you run that number a reissue patent comes up, issued in 1863, as number1592.  I'm not sure what that means.  You can find that patent using a Google search.  Hook was also granted patent number 24027 in 1859 for a similar looking machine, and that patent is also viewable on Google. 

This rare antique sewing machine is incredibly small, measuring about 4" tall overall and 2" square.  It has a built-in clamp to attach it to a work table.  By design, it pushed a hooked needle up from below and formed a chain stitch.  Very few were made, and fewer are known to exist today.  Grace Cooper gives the machine a nice little write-up. The other major reference on antique sewing machines has a picture and one sentence.  There are no other examples to be seen using a Google web or image search, and very little published information beyond what is found in Cooper's book. 

 Different, Rare, and Nice!!

Good + . . . . . . . $3950.00     SOLD!!

Ideal Model A Sewing Machine  This is an English design and patented sewing machine that dates from the 1920's or so.  The patent was pulled in 1910, but it is believed it was not produced until after WWI.  There were two different models, the A & B, and since they do not have serial #'s it is not known how many were produced.

There are a couple sites on the internet that have a pretty complete history and detail the differences.  This example came out of a collection that was gathered before that info was available as the owner thought it dated from a much earlier time and included that info on her neatly written tag you see in the pics.  The condition is exceptional, and the outer protective dome cover is nice as well. It is a great looking machine with its nickel plating and early single curved arm design.  It will look great in many decors or as part of the early sewing machine collection.

Fine . . . . . . .$250.00          SOLD!!

American Gem TSM / Toy Sewing Machine w/ Large Speed Enhancing Wheel w/ Instructions    This is a great looking and very hard to find antique sewing machine.  The condition of this example is exceptional.  The black japanned finish is super nice with just minor losses.  The white and yellow Daisy flower decoration running around the perimeter, up the arm, and in the center of the sewing table, is near perfect.  Over the years we have seen quite a few of these sewing machines and the decoration on almost all has been different on each machine, indicating they were hand-done.  Some have birds, others have red, green and gold grape-like vines, but this example with daisy decoration is certainly one of the nicest and most detailed / elaborate flower motifs we have seen.

These machines are found in two different styles, with the more common version lacking the large speed-enhancing second wheel that this one has.  I would say that the models with the speed enhancer are at least 10 times harder to find than those without.  The American Gem cast iron sewing machine has a interesting design base that was meant to resemble a real treadle sewing machine stand in miniature size.  It is unique among toy sewing machines in this respect, making this design sewing machine a favorite with toy sewing machine collectors and collectors of early full-size machines as well.  It is approx. 6" across the legs, and stands about 9" tall.  The diameter of the big wheel is about 5 1/2", the little wheel about 2 1/2".  The condition of the original wood base is nice, and on the bottom is a page of the original instructions.

The sewing plate is marked "Pat. Apld For", and in both of the references on sewing machines I have there is no information on the actual maker or any further patent information. There is a similar machine in our past sales archive that has maker and location info stamped on the base.  This one has a page from the instructions on the bottom, but no maker info.  I would estimate this machine to date from the 1880's or so from the look and decoration.  It sews a simple chain stitch like other early machines from this era, and a special note should be made that it has oil or lubrication holes at the important bearing points, a feature that would indicate this machine was also marketed as a small working machine for seamstresses, and not a simple toy.

This sewing machine is all-original with no breaks or cracks in the casting and it has not been touched up or restored.  This early sewing machine is sure to be a standout in any sewing machine collection!  And a really fine addition of Americana for your collection!

Fine  . . . . . . . SOLD!!

Grey Patent 1857 "Ne Plus Ultra" Sewing Machine  This is the rarest sewing machine listed on these pages.  It was patented in 1857 by Joshua Grey of Boston Mass.  The 1857 patent # 16566 can be seen at Google.  That information is found on the baster plate along with the name John Gault.

Carter Bays has two later versions of this type sewing machine pictured in his book on early American sewing machines, but fails to identify the patentee or date on this earlier machine.  Or give much other useful information about it.

In Grace Coopers book on early sewing machines there is a bit more info, but again speaks about later sewing machines and mis-identifies the patent holder of the early machine she pictures as having been patented by O. L. Reynolds.  This is  because her machine is missing the brass baster plate that this sewing machine has with the correct patent info with Grey's name and the date on it in front of the needle.  The sewing machine shown in her book is serial # 26 and has the same body casting as this one. She gives information from a later machine with serial #110 she had access to that carries a later March 30th 1858 patent date.  The 1858 patent shows machines w/ a different style base, similar to those machines pictured in Bays' book. 

This machine is serial #21, and has the earlier, and correct patent info on the baster plate that the sewing machine Cooper pictures is missing.  The patentees name, Grey, and 1857 date are earlier and different from any of the info she gives.   Mr. Grey, the patent holder of this machine, is not mentioned in either Bays or Cooper's book.  I assume Mr. Grey ran out of money and sold the rights to O. L. Reynolds, who re-submitted a later machine for a patent with some small change or "improvement" .    You can read his 1858 patent # 19793 using a Google search.  That, I  believe, makes this the earliest known and one of but a handful of this rare patented sewing machine that has ever turned up.  

The machine has almost no finish on it, but is not heavily rusted or pitted.  It actually looks quite nice. One small piece of one paw foot has some damage as shown in the pics.   The main arm driving the needle bar in the rear has a proper and period looking repair along the length of that.  The rear of the machine is open by design with the inner workings exposed,  and is correct as shown.   It has a great action and sound to it as it click clacks away when the crank is turned.    The thread catch and looper mechanism below the base are all present and operate as they should.  It is a very simple but elegant design solution to picking up and sewing a  chain stitch.  The spool pin is missing, and every machine I have seen has a different style one, so replacing that will be an easy fix.

A rare opportunity!!   Highly recommended!!

Good . . . . . . . . $    SOLD!!

Madame Demorest Sewing Machine   This interesting and early patented device was one of the first machines to earn the title of sewing machine, even though all they did was gather up the material and run the needle through it, thus forming what is known as a running stitch, like that used for basting.  There is a history of the Demorest Manufacturing Company that can be found on the internet.  That history claims the company was in business from the mid 1840's. 

This example is in near mint condition, still exhibiting most of its original gold gilding. It is complete with its edge guide, screw feed, a small package marked needle that contains a broken needle, and the top of the original box with instructions on the inside of the lid.   The cast iron screw clamp that fits underneath is damaged but present.  It can be repaired.  There is info cast into the body in a couple locations.  It is hard to make out because the original gold paint is applied so heavily, but it is marked "Patented May 13, 1862" along the edge and "Mme. Demorest" on the center top.  This example is slightly different than those pictured in Carter Bays' book. 

The idea behind this machine must have been appealing, as there are several other varieties of this style machine that are known.  They were produced during the same early 1860's pre-Civil War period.  The copied models were probably bootleg models to try and horn in on this fellow's "wonderful" idea and profit margin.  The most commonly seen is the "Family Gem", which is pretty much an exact copy minus the lady head cast into the body.  It does carry the same patent dates.

It is amazing that one could find anybody to buy one of these as they are such a silly idea.  I would bet that I could beat this machine's output with a needle and thread in hand, and I cannot sew, but that is the sort of thing that makes for great collectibles.  This "sewing machine" is an important link in the development of the early American sewing machine and they are very graphic and beautiful in form.  These are not offered very often, and are quite hard to find these days.  Highly recommend!

Fine . . . . . . .$1750.00           SOLD!!

Singer 29-4 Leatherworkers Treadle Sewing Machine  The Singer 29-4 was designed and developed for a host of trades dealing with leather or other heavy material. With its freearm design and rotating head it had the ability to do a myriad of tasks put in front of it. This machine is in as nice condition as you could want.  After a thorough inspection and light cleaning I found no casting problems in the base, body or head. And I believe this machine to be 100% ready to go. It operates effortlessly and flawlessly, even for a novice sewer like me. The range of speeds with simple foot action on the treadle is amazing. Also included is an auxiliary table for flatwork that the previous owner made, and a drawer which I believe is original, full of spools and other misc. Shipping will be at cost and I will break it down as far as you want or ship it via Craters and Freighters, or however you want. The condition of this workhorse of a sewing machine is superb, and it will be a long time before you see one as nice as this one again.

Good+ . . . . . . .$495.00          SOLD




Secor Treadle Sewing Machine  This early and unusual treadle sewing machine was produced during the 1870's.  According to Grace Cooper's book The Invention of the Sewing Machine she has found entries for this company only from 1870-1876 before their entries disappeared from the directories. Carter Bays estimates that this company only produced 10,000 or so of this style of machine.  There are some different variations known in the table styles, but the machine and the treadle base are usually as seen here.  Carter Bays says in his book that this company was from Bridgeport, Connecticut, but the basket weave design foot pedal on this treadle says the "Secor S.M. Co. New York" around the border. The overall condition of this piece is very nice.  There is a lot of original finish and decoration left on the machine itself. There is one sliding plate over the shuttle that is missing but this minor to the overall effect.  The base is nice and there are no breaks or repairs in the ironwork in this area.   The wooden cover is proper and has had a positive effect in maintaining the nice condition of the rest of the machine.

  This is the same company that is so well known for producing the  small integral clamp Fairy Sewing Machine from a slightly later era.  (You can see one of these small sewing machines pictured on our collection pages.)   This is a rare and seldom seen machine.  The condition of this machine is great given that they were designed to be used day in and day out, and oftentimes were.  This is the first of this style machine we have ever had the pleasure to own or to offer for sale.  An opportunity that well might not present itself again anytime soon.

Excellent . . . . . . . SOLD



Triumph Sewing Machine    This example is 100% complete with all of it's original parts, including the removable section and its retaining pin. Nice!!.


Good + . . . . . . .$1295.00          SOLD





Round Wooden Triumph Sewing Machine   This scarce sewing machines features one of the most unusual and graphic designs that was ever thought up!  It is believed to have been manufactured by the Foley & Williams Co. and is simply marked "Patent Appld For". The unusual round body is all wood with a metal backing plate, and the body was designed with a small section of frame that could be removed while sewing to allow the fabric to pass through, then replaced when not in use to keep it stable.  These machines are seldom found and rarely offered for sale, and because of their age, design and material they are generally found incomplete and in worn condition.  This example is 100% complete with all of it's original parts, including the removable section and its retaining pin. You will be proud to display this example along with your other "top-shelf" small sewing machines.

Good + . . . . . . .$1450.00          SOLD



Early Patented Beckwith Clamp-On Sewing Machine Patented in 1871 by the American inventor William G. Beckwith, this extremely hard-to-find antique sewing machine is on top of the "wish list" of many avid sewing machine collectors, and it is no wonder.  The design of this sewing machine is unlike that of any other, and its period of manufacture was only a few short years.  It was marketed as an actual home sewing and mending machine, not as a toy, but its diminutive size of approximately 7" x 7" x 5" and its unusual looks make it a favorite among toy sewing machine collectors as well.  This example is in excellent mechanical condition with a restored paint job.  There are a couple of minor dings on the metal stitchplate, but given the rarity of this machine these notations on condition are of little consequence and do not detract nor take away from the historical significance of this machine.

Very Good . . . . . . .$495.00           SOLD



The Madame Demorest Sewing Machine  These interesting and early patented sewing machines or devices were one of the first  to earn the title of sewing machine even though all they did was to gather up the material and run the needle through it thus forming what is known as a running stitch, like that used for basting.  The idea must have been appealing, as there are several other varieties of these that are known which were produced during the same period, and these were probably bootleg models to try and horn in on this fellow's "wonderful" idea and profit margin.  It is amazing that he could find anybody to buy them as they are such a silly idea.  I would bet that I could beat this thing's output, and I cannot sew, but that is the sort of thing that makes for great collectibles.  In any case they are an important link in the development of the early American sewing machine story and they are very graphic and beautiful in form.  This one is in near mint condition still exhibiting most of its gilding.  It is complete with its edge guide, screw feed and the clamp underneath that is oftentimes missing.  These are not offered very often, and are quite hard to find these days.  We are letting it go to make room for a couple of new acquisitions to our collection we have managed to turn up.  Can't keep them all.  Now its your turn to take care of it.

Good . . . . .$1295.00            SOLD

Early Hancock Style / Lake Patent Integral-Clamp Antique Sewing Machine  The first sewing machines had barely been invented when Henry J. Hancock received his 1867 patent for this unusual chain stitch machine.  The design of this early sewing machine, with its very delicate open-frame "skeleton" body and integral clamp, is incredibly appealing.  Examples of this unusual sewing machine are extremely scarce.  Hancock and Lake Patent sewing machines were only produced for 10 or so years, which explains why they are seldom found and rarely offered for sale.  For those antique sewing machine collectors who seek out examples of the very earliest patents, this type of sewing machine is always at the top of their "want list".  There are no casting flaws or cracks in the delicate casting, but there is considerable paint loss and the surface exhibits a dark rich patina that one would expect from a 130-year-old antique.   Likewise the brass parts have not been polished and retain a deep mellow tone.  As is generally the case in machines the needle is missing. 

Good + . . . . . . . .$950.00          SOLD

Charles Parker Patented Integral-Clamp Sewing Machine  This is a rare sewing machine.  Charles Parker is most famous for the line of firearms and shotguns that he produced in Meriden CT.  In addition to the famous gun line he also made a great coffee mill, and they, like the guns are much favored amongst collectors.  In addition to that he also tried his hand in the sewing machine business.  His idea literally turned the known world on its head.  The patent for his sewing machine has the needle coming at the work from below.  What a strange idea.  In addition it is a integral clamp model, another unusual feature. We traded this for an apple peeler, and before the day was out had traded it off again for a Patent model, and some other consideration. 

Good + . . . . . . . TRADED AWAY

The Jones Hand Machine / Sewing Machine   The condition of this early English sewing machine is stunning with nearly all the original black paint remaining and no rust or corrosion to the metal parts at all.. It has a lot of gold highlighting and other decorations all over the body as well.  It is in like new condition and is one of the nicest examples I have ever seen.   There has been some minor flaking of this gold highlighting on the round portion of the sewing bed, and the feet but it looks great..

This sewing machine known as the Hand dates from the 1870's  - 1880's and was the first model produced by this firm  before they changed over to a more standard looking machine with a "modern" looking head.  It is typically referred to as a Serpentine or cat back with its arched style main arm.  It has a great design appeal and is an interesting machine you do not find every day.  This machine weighs over 20lbs, and is pretty massive.  It will make a great display piece.  The shuttle and bobbin are in place as well, and it could be put back into use for reenactments or other historical applications.  It runs like a clock, smooth and almost effortlessly.  A  Super piece!!

Excellent  . . . . . . .$595.00           SOLD!

Raymond New England Style Sewing Machine   This sewing machine has a picture decal of a beaver and the name Raymond.  There are a lot of different  machines that are generally known as "New England's"  There were a series of makers in the New England area that were known makers of the design.  Raymond, and Raymond and Nettleton were two of them. Most, or many of this style machine are not marked in any way.  Carter Bays in his book identifies machines like this with a double curl in the lower arm and being Weir machines which are actually from England.   


The condition of this machine is excellent with nearly all the original black paint remaining and no rust or corrosion to the metal parts.  It has a lot of gold highlighting and other decorations.  An interesting machine you do not find every day.

Good + .. . . . . . .$750.00   SOLD!!

Electric Wilcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine w/ Box  The Wilcox and Gibbs is one of the best known and most commonly found of all early patented sewing machines.  They were made for well over 100 years and offered in countless different variations.  The condition of this machine is near mint with nearly all the original black paint gold decals and highlighting remaining.  There is  no major rust or corrosion to the metal parts.   The Wilcox & Gibbs is an interesting and distinctive looking small machine that you do not find every day  in this nice condition.  It was first patented in the 1850's and numerous times after that.

This electric model looks to be made up as an aftermarket idea.  The typically seen electric models came in a long rectangular box and had a special marked foot peddle.  I am not sure who did this or when, but it looks to be 30's or so.  It is obvious that it did not go over well with the intended user, and she probably moved on to a Singer 221 Featherweight, while this was relegated to the closet for the next 80 or so years. 

A nice machine that has a great look. 

Fine . . . . . . .$295.00          SOLD!    

Electric Wilcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine  The Wilcox and Gibbs is one of the best known and most commonly found of all early patented sewing machines.  They were made for well over 100 years and offered in countless different variations including electric models.   A nice later machine that has a great look. 

Good +  . . . . . . .$295.00          SOLD!

Wilcox & Gibbs Sewing Machine  The Wilcox and Gibbs is one of the best known and most commonly found of all early patented sewing machines.  They were made for well over 100 years and offered in countless different variations.  This one is off of a treadle style   A nice later machine that has a great look. 

Good +  . . . . . . .$195.00           SOLD!

New Home "Midget" Sewing Machine  The condition of this machine is very good with nearly all the original black paint gold decals and highlighting remaining.  There is  no rust or corrosion to the metal parts.   The Midget is an interesting small machine that you do not find every day and certainly not in this nice condition.  It can be found with several other names as well.  It was first patented in 1911.  It has a bobbin and sews a lock stitch unlike many other toy machines, and was marketed as a full size machine despite its small size.  The box looks to be original, and is in very nice condition as well. 

Fine . . . . . . .$250.00          SOLD!    

American Hand Sewing Machine in Original Box  The condition of this machine and its original box is incredible.  The original box is pie shaped with a sliding lid and has a picture of the machine on one side and the instructions on the other. The picture is bold and clear, and the instructions are easily readable.  Although there are minor losses the condition of the box, being so rare and unusual, would rate as fine. 

In close to 30 years of dealing in Antique sewing machines I have only seen a couple of these in their boxes.  One of them was mine and is pictured on our site www.AntiqBuyer.com in the information section on early machines at that site.  We sold that machine a number of years ago to an advanced collector in Europe.  The other was in a Christies auction about 15 years ago.  The boxes for those was a rectangle and not nearly as nice as this one. 

These sewing machines were patented in the late 19th century and sold primarily as travel machines.  The design was patented in 1884 by Adin Barber, under 2 different numbers, 306996, and 306713.  A third patent, 330195 utilized a lot of the ideas and added a clamp was granted a year later to the same inventor.  There were other similar designs of this scissor / shear design sewing machine produced by Hendricks and Goodbody.  I do not know if there was any connection, or if they were just competitors.

The name American Hand Sewing Machine Co. and one patent date is stamped into the inside of the handle.  The design is very complex, and even includes a bobbin.  It is also very fragile, another reason so few have survived.  Carter Bays in his book on the subject surmises that just a couple thousand were produced over about a 10 year period and i would bet few survived in this nice condition.

A nice machine that has a great look. 

Fine . . . . . . .$2450.00          SOLD!!

Antique Pawfoot Sewing Machine  The condition of this machine is incredible.  The paint and decoration are all original and near 100%.  This style machine is generically called the Paw Foot, or Fire Hydrant..   This type of early sewing machine forms a single thread chain stitch, utilizing no bobbin or second thread to form a lockstitch.

These sewing machines can be found marked "Ketchum's Patent", which would cover the stitch mechanism, or they can also be found marked "Shaw & Clark" or "Wilson", just two of the many competitors in the early sewing machine market. Antique Sewing Machines of this style date from the mid 1860's / 1870's and were still being produced into the late 1870's before more standardized and advanced designs pushed them from the market.  Many of these machines are found with no maker or patent information on them, and this example is one of the unmarked ones. They are often described by the shape of the pillar or column, and this one would be known as a fire hydrant model. It was a popular design, and there are several other variations of it that can be found. Other typically seen styles are the fluted column model, the skinny column, the open or closed square column, and others. The operation and design of all are pretty much the same.

Their attractive designs make them highly sought after, but they are typically found in horrible condition with little remaining paint. This example on the other hand is quite nice with approximately nearly all of the original paint and decoration remaining.  A nice machine that has a great look. 

Fine. . . . . . .$950.00          SOLD!!

Antique Pawfoot Sewing Machine  This early sewing machine is marked "Ketchum's Patent".

Fine. . . . . . .$950.00          SOLD!!

"La Queen" Sewing Machine with Original Box & Paperwork  This interesting looking miniature sewing machine is marked "La Queen Brevete S. G. D. G." in a circular belt-like logo on the sew plate. That inscription basically means it is patented, and "S.G.D.G." (Sans Garantie Du Gouvernement) is a disclaimer required by the government of France stating that it does not guarantee enforcement of the claimed patent.

The base and body appear to be a combination of stamped, bent, and formed steel or brass. It is a great looking design, but of dubious functionality.  References I have seen attribute the inventor to be S. A. Rosenthal of Berlin, the same fellow who holds the American patent for the Moldacot sewing machine.  The Moldacot is a well-known and much more commonly seen miniature sewing machine.  It is not known how many of these unusual small La Queen machines were produced, or how many made it to the US. One informational site I read claimed they were very rare.  I could not find any reference to this machine having an American patent.

The condition of this example is exceptional, and it includes the original box and instructions, which are extremely hard to find.  The La Queen is a very unusual antique sewing machine, and a must have for any advanced sewing collection. 

Fine  . . . . . . .$1295.00          SOLD!

Hancock / Lake Patent Cast Iron Sewing Machine / TSM   The patent for this small early and unusual integral clamp sewing machine was granted on August 6th 1867 and that date is clearly stamped on the brass sewing plate.  It is identified in The Thomas book on TSM's as being a Hancock patent. A quick search at Google turns up noting similar or for Hancock on that date.  Jennie Lake, a woman from New York was granted a patent for a machine of the exact same form on August 30th 1870. That patent number is 106943 and it can be viewed using Google Patent search.

This example is in overall nice condition retaining most of its original black finish with traces of gold highlights and decoration.  The small knob on the crank wheel is a later replacement.  As is typical there is no needle. It would have been one of the hooked design needles with a barb on the end.  A hard to find variant and nice early sewing machine! 

Fine . . . . . . .$2250.00           SOLD!

Howe 1860's - 1870's Mother of Pearl Decorated Sewing Machine  Elias Howe is one of the three big names in the early development of and  granting of patents to,  for sewing machines.  There are numerous bio's about him and his accomplishments to be found on the internet and in other research that has been done on him.

This machine dates from the late 1860's / 1870's and is a transitional piece, different from his earliest ideas, but also different from the later 1800's machines that were produced in huge numbers.  The sliding shuttle plate is marked with 3 patents dates from the 1850's through the 1860's.    The large bronze plaque with his likeness on it is very nice and graphic.  The machine turns over easily, and is in overall nice condition with losses to the paint and decoration as one would expect.   A nice machine that has a great look. 

Good +. . . . . . .$250.00          SOLD!!

1858 Patent Williams & Orvis Treadle Sewing Machine  This Williams and Orvis antique treadle  sewing machine was first patented in 1858.  Williams & Orvis was a Boston-based company that manufactured sewing machines for just a few short years from 1858 to the mid 1860's.  The machine was produced in two models with this being the first model.

A patent from 1858 would date this machine as one of the first generation of sewing machine patented and produced in the US.  This information can be found in the book on antique sewing machines by Grace Rogers Cooper published by the Smithsonian in the 70's. Additional info can be found in the book on antique sewing machines by Carter Bays. 

Very few examples of this machine have survived and I would venture few in as nice condition as this one. This example has a serial # 2912.  Carter bays in his book postulates that no more than 7,000 or so of both models were made and that fewer of the first model appear or have survived.

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This sewing machine body and bed still retains much of the gold gilt decoration that is so often worn off of these early sewing machines.  The black japanned finish is near 100%.   The manufacturer's name and location in the gold lettering are near complete on the top of the bed.  The stitch plate is clearly marked "Patent Applied For" which I believe would date this from very early in the production period. 

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The machines finish is in such nice condition due to the fact that the wooden hood or cover has remained intact with the machine. The cover and table are in original finish which is overall very nice.   There are some scuffs and a cosmetic crack in the walnut top cover, but it is minor.  There are also some minor scratches in the table top.    This sewing machine has spent its life in a controlled climate, and not in an old barn in New England like so many machines that are found.  

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This sewing machine features a fairly unique design that sews a chain stitch using two threads.  Most other machines from this era sewed a single thread chain stitch, and machines that utilized a bobbin and sewed a lock stitch had not yet been introduced.   The form is especially striking because of it's petite size. 

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This antique treadle sewing machine is also unusual in that it is friction-driven, utilizing a large flywheel that is mounted underneath the table to drive the smaller wheel at the bottom of the machine. The flywheel presses against a rubber 0 ring that is fastened directly to the machine's small drive-wheel. (rubber 0 ring missing)  Most other and later sewing machines were driven with a belt to a small flywheel above the table and attached to the end of the sewing machine.  

The decorative cast iron treadle looks good, but has been refinished at some point in time.  There is a casting crack in one lower leg that has been welded / braised and then was repainted.  It looks great from the outside, but upon inspection the inside of this leg shows where the repair was made.

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This is a very rare and hard-to-find early American patented sewing machine in outstanding condition.  Highly recommended and this opportunity will knock but once!!! 

Excellent . . . . . . SOLD!!

Pet Sewing Machine w/ Original Box  This early sewing machine is similar to a Hancock Patent.  you will probably never see one in the box again.  Special.

Fine. . . . . . .$2750.00          SOLD!!

Skinny Pillar New England Style Sewing Machine / c. 1860 - 1870  This is one of the hardest to find and rare variants of a New England style sewing machine one might encounter.  This super condition sewing machine is a variation I have only seen a couple of times in over 30 years of looking for and dealing in antique sewing machines.  The main difference between this and the more typical New England style machines is that this machine has an 8-sided pillar capped with a decorative cannon ball-like embellishment at the top, making it somewhat akin to the design of the Shaw & Clark "skinny pillar".  Most New England style machines are unmarked as to maker as is this one.  In Grace Cooper's book on patented American sewing machines she lists off a number of early firms from the New England area as the likely makers of this style machine.  The only marking found on this machine is the #10 stamped on the sole.  That could well be the serial number of this rare style sewing machine, as if it were an assembly number other parts would also be marked 10.

The machine is approx. 9" long from table to outside of the crank wheel.  The overall condition is very nice.  It operates very smoothly.   All screws and motions operate.  It is designed so that the presser foot acts as the feed.  These machines sewed a single chain stitch and the looper mechanism underneath is all there and operable.  There is just minor wear to some of the paint and gold decoration.  The main groups of flowers on the bed and end plate are near perfect.  All in all a beautiful machine!!  Complete the collection!!

Fine . . . . . . . $1095.00       SOLD!!

c. 1852 Paw Foot Sewing Machine   This early sewing machine looks like a Watson Patent Sewing Machine or a couple other early patented designs from the 1850's - 1860's, but the mechanism below is different from any of those.  It is unmarked as to maker or any patent info.  It is not pictured in either of the main references on sewing machines by Grace Cooper of the Smithsonian or the other author who has put out several books on the subject.

This unusual and early machine came from a clean-out of an old factory building in CT and was found with other machines spanning a long period of time.  The parchment / oil skin tag is hard to read, but says the machine is to be returned to the store room after use and is dated 1852.  The theory is that an early manufacturer of sewing machines had gathered up examples of competitors machines to study them, so as to not infringe on others patents, or to subtly copy ideas from those other machines in their quest to produce their own better sewing machine.  All screws and motions operate.  It operates very smoothly and like most other machines from this era is designed to form a simple chain stitch.  Comparing the mechanism below there are subtle differences to other machines known and illustrated.

The machine is approx. 10" long from foot to foot.  The overall condition is very nice and much of the original decoration and paint remain. The main groups of flower decoration on the bed are near perfect as are the gold highlights on the column.   All in all a beautiful machine and piece of true Americana!!  Complete the collection!!

Fine . . . . . . . $2995.00      SOLD!!

McLean & Bennor 1873 Patent Model Sewing Machine  The patent for this unusual machine was granted on January 21 1873.  The patent number is 135,000.  It comes up with a Google search.  I have never seen or had a sewing machine produced by this partnership.  The partnership between McLean & Bennor lasted just 3 years from 1873 - 1876.

This sewing machine is similar looking to a McLean & Hopper sewing machine who was also McLean's partner during the same period. What the relationship between the three was is unknown.   There is info to be found on the internet and at the Smithsonian site about them and the parent company The Centennial Sewing Machine Co.  The last listing for that company was also 1876.

The patent mentions the machine bed being "broken away" to better show the working parts.  That has been done.  Problem is some of those parts below the bed are missing.  Most notably the bobbin case and hook assembly which is described in the patent.    Different and nice!!

Good . . . . . . . $1250.00    SOLD!!

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