The American Index
Patented in 1893, The American No.1 was the first step into the typewriter world for The American Typewriter Co. of 265 Broadway, New York. The machine was invented by Louis Phillipe Valiquet, however he found little success marketing it, and sold to production rights to the president of The American Typewriter Co., Halbert Edwin Payne
The American Index operates similarly to many index machines of the time. The user would use one hand to operate the type selector, and the other to operate lever to the left hand side of the frame, to print. The lever at the front of the machine is for spacing. The type element is affixed to the swinging type selector, which constantly inks type via two inked rollers, which can be seen in between the carriage and index plate. A printing hammer presses the type into the paper.
The No.1 prints 71 characters, and is serial numbered up to 3,000. The later No.2 prints 73 characters, and does not have a serial number. The No.1 is not affixed to a wooden base like its later counterpart, instead opting for a small wooden case for storage.
Decorations for the No.1 varied quite a bit. Early models read “American $5 Typewriter” where the nameplate is. A few more were produced reading, “American $6 Typewriter”. After a few hundred machines were produced as such, they switched to the simple name plate you see here reading, “The American Typewriter Co. New York”
All decals and pinstripes are hand painted, and many feature different decorations.
The American No.2
Now with a larger index plate, The American Index No.2 is capable of printing 73 characters, and at greater speeds thanks to some work on the escapement.
The No.2 was advertised as early as 1895, and remained until the early 1910’s. According to advertising, they had sold over 25,000 American No.2’s. It is unclear wether or not this is accurate, as they were not serial numbered.
The No.2 is where The American Typewriter Co. started experimenting with their sales, and selling machines under different names. In North America you’ll find names such as The Crown, (labeled as Lyon Manufacturing Co.) The. Sterling, The Practical, and Boston Crown.
There were export models in England, and France which different slightly in construction, but remained the same in function. The Globe was sold in England, and the Champion was sold in France.
Do you have an American Index machine, or any of its name variants? As an avid collector of typewriters, I invite you to consider selling your American Index Typewriter. By doing so, you can contribute to preserving the rich history and legacy of these remarkable machines. Your typewriter, once it becomes part of my collection, will not only be cherished but shared with the public, allowing countless individuals to marvel at the ingenuity and craftsmanship behind it. Each typewriter in my collection serves as a testament to the artistry and innovation that has shaped the world of writing and communication. Your American Index Typewriter, with its unique design and remarkable functionality, would truly be a valuable addition to this curated collection.
If you are interested in parting ways with your American Index Typewriter, please do not hesitate to reach out. Rest assured that, in my hands, your typewriter will receive the utmost care and be celebrated as a significant piece of history.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to contribute to the public's understanding and appreciation of typewriters. Together, we can keep the magic of these iconic machines alive for generations to come.
Thanks,
Jack Armstrong
Tampa Typewriter Co,.
