Smith Corona SL 470 Electronic Typewriter
This is a Smith Corona SL 470, a representative example of late-20th-century electronic typing technology, likely dating from the mid-to-late 1980s or early 1990s. The unit features a matte gray plastic structural chassis with a wedge-shaped profile typical of the era's office equipment. It is equipped with a full QWERTY keyboard consisting of cream-colored alphanumeric keys contrasted against a dark gray housing. Above the keyboard sits an integrated function command strip providing electronic controls for pitch, indexing, centering, and margin settings. A notable design element is the large, hinged protective top cover which serves as a paper support when in the upright position. The branding is clearly visible on the front-left panel featuring the classic Smith Corona logo, while the model designation 'SL 470' is printed on the upper-right section. Construction reflects the transition from heavy metal mechanical internals to lighter plastic-housed electronic components and daisy-wheel printing mechanisms. The condition appears fair to good used condition; while the keyboard and plastic casing seem intact without major cracks, there is visible surface dust and minor scuffing consistent with age and storage. The unit includes its original power cord visible on the right side, though functionality of the internal electronic correction system and motor would require testing with a compatible ribbon cartridge.
AI-Generated Appraisal Disclaimer
Estimated Value
$45.00 - $75.00
Basic Information
Category
Vintage Office Equipment / Electronic Typewriters
Appraised On
March 7, 2026
Estimated Value
$45.00 - $75.00
Additional Details Provided By Owner
User Provided Information
Here’s a polished, catalog‑ready description of the typewriter you uploaded—clear, detailed, and suitable for inventory, resale, or provenance documentation. --- 🖨️ Smith Corona SL 470 Electronic Typewriter — Description The Smith Corona SL 470 is a late‑20th‑century electronic typewriter designed for home, office, and academic use. It blends the tactile feel of traditional typing with early digital conveniences, making it a transitional piece between manual typewriters and modern word processors. ✨ Key Features • Full QWERTY Keyboard: White keys with gray lettering, including dedicated function keys such as Code, Shift, Tab, Margin, Correct, and Half Space. • Function Command Strip: A labeled control panel above the keyboard offering quick-access commands like Pitch, Index, Rev, Auto, Center, Return, and Set. • Electronic Correction System: Built-in correction ribbon capability for clean, efficient editing. • Paper Feed & Alignment Ruler: Integrated ruler and paper guide for precise document alignment. • Ribbon Cartridge Housing: Accessible compartment for easy ribbon replacement. • Branding: “Smith Corona” prominently displayed on the front panel. 🧩 Overall Impression This model represents the era when typewriters were becoming smarter—offering electronic memory, correction features, and smoother typing action while retaining the classic form factor. It’s a reliable, collectible example of late‑20th‑century office technology. --- If you want, I can also create: • a catalog entry with condition, rarity, demand, and valuation fields • a market comparison for similar Smith Corona models.
Item Description
This is a Smith Corona SL 470, a representative example of late-20th-century electronic typing technology, likely dating from the mid-to-late 1980s or early 1990s. The unit features a matte gray plastic structural chassis with a wedge-shaped profile typical of the era's office equipment. It is equipped with a full QWERTY keyboard consisting of cream-colored alphanumeric keys contrasted against a dark gray housing. Above the keyboard sits an integrated function command strip providing electronic controls for pitch, indexing, centering, and margin settings. A notable design element is the large, hinged protective top cover which serves as a paper support when in the upright position. The branding is clearly visible on the front-left panel featuring the classic Smith Corona logo, while the model designation 'SL 470' is printed on the upper-right section. Construction reflects the transition from heavy metal mechanical internals to lighter plastic-housed electronic components and daisy-wheel printing mechanisms. The condition appears fair to good used condition; while the keyboard and plastic casing seem intact without major cracks, there is visible surface dust and minor scuffing consistent with age and storage. The unit includes its original power cord visible on the right side, though functionality of the internal electronic correction system and motor would require testing with a compatible ribbon cartridge.
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