The Corona 3 changed the idea that typewriters belonged only in offices. Introduced in 1912 as the first genuine portable — folding, boxable, travel-ready — it gave journalists, writers and travelers their first personal typewriter. In 1926 the Corona company merged with L.C. Smith & Brothers to create Smith-Corona.
History
The Corona portable was designed by the Bennett brothers around 1909 and went into production in 1912. Small and affordable, it was the best-selling portable of the 1910s–20s, and 'Corona' nearly became a synonym for the portable typewriter.
After the merger, Smith-Corona produced a stream of successful portables and office machines through the 1930s–60s — the Silent, Sterling, Skyriter and Classic 12 — becoming the typewriter most often found in American schools and homes. It moved to electrics and ribbons in the 1960s and survives as a stationery brand, but old Smith-Corona portables remain the easiest vintage typewriters to collect.
What makes it special
- Pioneer of portables — The Corona 3 (1912) was the first truly successful portable.
- Easiest entry point — Huge production, low prices and plentiful parts make these ideal for beginners.
- Quiet operation — The Silent series lived up to its name — great for night writing.
Classic models
| Model | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corona 3 | 1912 | First successful portable |
| Smith-Corona Silent | 1933 | The 'quiet' portable |
| Smith-Corona Sterling | 1939 | Mid-range portable classic |
| Smith-Corona Skyriter | 1949 | Lightweight portable |
| Smith-Corona Classic 12 | 1950s–60s | The classic family/student model |
Serial number dating (estimate)
Serial numbers give a rough production era. Precise dating needs the brand's official serial handbook.
| Period | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1912 – 1925 | Corona 3 and early |
| 1926 – 1938 | Early post-merger |
| 1939 – 1955 | Silent / Sterling era |
| 1956 – 1970 | Classic series & electric transition |
Try it out
Want to try typing on a vintage machine or estimate a serial number? Both are free, in your browser.
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