Vintage Burroughs Electric Ten-Key Adding Machine / Calculating Machine
Burroughs · Collectibles & Antiques > Vintage Electronics / Office Equipment
Era / Decade
1950s - 1960s (Mid-Century Modern industrial design)
Material
Heavy cast metal housing with a textured brown wrinkle/crinkle paint finish, molded plastic keys, and internal steel mechanical components with electrical wiring.
Condition
Good (Vintage). Shows moderate age-appropriate surface wear, dust, light staining/discoloration on the yellowed cream keys, and minor scuffs on the textured body. Unchecked for full internal mechanical/electrical functionality.
Demand Level
Niche / Moderate. Popular as film/theater props, steampunks/industrial office decor, and vintage office technology collections.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $25 (Untested, local pickup) | Mid: $45 - $65 (Tested working or sold as industrial decor) | High: $85+ (Fully restored/working with clean keys)
Estimated Retail Value
$150 - $250 (Original inflation-adjusted commercial retail value in the mid-20th century)
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage Burroughs 10-key adding machines sell in the $35-$70 range on eBay depending on physical condition and operational status.
Description
Authentic vintage Burroughs electric 10-key adding machine featuring a heavy-duty textured brown crinkle-finish metal housing, classic mid-century typography, and cream-colored function keys. Includes paper roll feeding slot at the rear and attached power cord. Ideal for vintage office displays, theatrical props, retro decor, or mechanical collectors.
Key Features
Prominent embossed Burroughs logo, iconic mid-century industrial design, heavy metal construction, distinctive crinkle texture body, complete set of retro cream keys.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Clear 'Burroughs' raised branding centered on the metal faceplate, period-correct molded keycap fonts, standard industrial weight and crinkle finish.
Flaws to Note
Yellowing and light grime on plastic keycaps, minor scuffs/dirt marks near the front base, untested electrical components (power cord visible), potential interior dust buildup.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best reach for vintage electronics/collectors), Etsy (great for vintage decor/prop buyers), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid high shipping costs due to heavy weight).
Selling Tips
Clean keycaps carefully with a mild degreaser or Q-tip. Test whether it powers on and cycles when plugged in and clearly state functional status in listing. Due to heavy weight, charge calculated shipping or offer local pickup to preserve profit margin.