Determining Antique Singer Sewing Machine Value

For many, the antique Singer sewing machine value is mostly, or partially, sentimental. Typically, the machine they own belonged to a family member and was passed down through the generations as an heirloom piece. This does not, however, mean that antique Singer machine value lies purely in the sentimental, or in the family tree. Many collectors seek out antique Singer sewing machines for their rarity, for their beauty and for the sheer craftsmanship that went into their creation.

Singer started to manufacture sewing machines back in 1851, later on in 1856, they offered the first home-use model, which was cost prohibitive to most consumers at the time. Most people who purchased a Singer model in the 1850s did so on a payment plan, much the same as a credit card today.

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. The machine that started a home-sewn revolution was so popular, it even had its own “action figures”-toy and miniature sewing machines made of cast iron.

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 may be valued in the high thousands depending on their condition, model, original extras, the casing and of course, the market as well as the pool of potential buyers. While condition is certainly a factor, antique Singer sewing machine value is based more on the year of production and the type of machine.

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.