What’s the Value of Your Old Singer Sewing Machine?

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Determine how much your old Singer machine is worth
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When it comes to Singer sewing machines, the value fluctuates based on factors like age, condition, model, and more. Determining the value of your old Singer machine has never been easier, especially with this guide. In this article, we explain how to check the value of your old Singer sewing machine , explore different Singer models and their values , and more.

How to Determine the Value of an Old Singer Sewing Machine

Old Singer sewing machines can range in value from $20 to several thousand dollars, depending on their condition. Determine the model and age of your machine by putting the serial number into Singer’s Sewing Machine Serial Number Database . Compare prices of your model online based on the condition of your machine.

Section 1 of 6:

How much is my old Singer sewing machine worth?

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  1. An old Singer sewing machine may be worth a few thousand dollars. Sewing machine value fluctuates depending on factors like functionality, special features, age, rarity, demand, and more. Generally speaking, though, if your sewing machine is in high demand and good condition, it'll be worth more than one that's in low demand and poor condition.
    • In order to figure out how much your sewing machine is worth, you'll need to evaluate its market value. We'll explain how to do that in the next section!
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Section 2 of 6:

What affects a Singer sewing machine’s value?

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  1. Depending on the age of your Singer sewing machine, it may be worth a pretty penny. Vintage models (models less than 100 years old) and antique models (models older than 100 years old) generally fluctuate in value, with fully-functional vintage models often offering a higher price tag than damaged or non-working antique models. Determine the age by checking the manufacturing date or serial number on the machine. [1]
    • Some models may be worth more depending on the specific period of history they originated in. For example, the Singer 27 has a high value due to its use in World War 1.
    • The International Sewing Machine Collectors Society (ISMCS) values some vintage machines higher than others, increasing the demand for certain machines.
  2. Different models of Singer sewing machines have different values. For example, the Singer 27 isn’t worth as much as the Featherweight models, as the Featherweights are a lot less common. Determine your machine type by checking the model number on the front or side of the machine and running it through the Singer Sewing Machine Serial Number Database . [2]
    • Different Singer machines have different variations, and some of those variations can have a higher value than the original machine.
    • For example, the Singer 15 has different variations, some of which are worth more than others, like the Mint Green Singer 15-125, which is worth more than the Singer 15-91. [3]
  3. Old Singer sewing machines that are in working condition and have minimal to no damage will typically be worth the most. If you don’t have any scratches or rusting on your machine, and as long as any missing parts are easily replaceable, you’re in good hands. But, old Singer sewing machines that are damaged, non-working, or in generally poor condition won’t be worth as much as those that are well-kept. [4]
    • Vintage machines that are in good condition are typically worth more than antique machines that are in poor condition.
    • If your machine also includes original accessories (like foot pedals, treadles, carrying cases, or bobbins), it may be worth a bit more as well. [5]
  4. Depending on what Singer machine you have, it could have a different value depending on the market. Check online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace to see what the average cost for your model is and help determine its value. [6]
    • Consult local experts like pawn shop owners, antique stores, and sewing machine enthusiasts. They will likely have more knowledge about your machine’s value than you do.
  5. Depending on the part of the world you’re selling in, different Singer machines may be worth more or less than they are in other places. For example, the Singer 24 is common in the U.S. but not in other parts of the world, so it’s more sought after outside of the country.
  6. Different trends in the sewing and crafting community can influence how Singer sewing machines are valued. For example, new digital machines are in high demand among modern sewers due to their ease of use, but vintage machines tend to be sought after due to their durability and style. Depending on the trend in your target market, different machines may hold different values. [7]
  7. How rare your Singer sewing machine is definitely influences its value. For example, common machines like the Singer 15 aren’t going to be worth as much as rare machines, like the Singer 1 or the Singer 12. Older machines in working condition may be rarer than newer machines that don’t work, so keep that in mind as you determine your Singer’s value. [8]
    • Additionally, some Singer sewing machines have special features that increase their value. For example, the Singer 15 has a reverse and drop feed that isn’t present on models like the 27. [9]
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Section 3 of 6:

How old is my Singer sewing machine?

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  1. Look for the serial number on your sewing machine. If it has a hand crank with a treadle, check the throat plate or bed for a sequence of 8 numbers. If it’s electric with a treadle, check the right side for a sequence of 2 letters followed by 6 numbers. For a standard electric machine, check underneath. For a machine from the '60s or later, check the front or side. [10]
Section 4 of 6:

Types of Singer Sewing Machines & Their Values

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  1. 1
    Singer 27 The Singer 27 features twin needle plates that set it apart from other types of Singer machines. [11] It’s a sleek model that was produced from the 1880s to the 1960s. It was also the first of Singer’s sewing machines to use vibrating shuttle technology, which moves the shuttle in a circular arc. [12]
    • Value: $20-$1,100. Typically around $190.
    • Factors That Influence Value: Older models with accessories and working parts are typically worth more. Newer, machines with damaged or non-working parts are worth less.
    • This machine is sought after due to its historical significance, as it improved stitching quality and speed during the early 20th century. [13]
    • The Singer 127 is the electric version of the Singer 27.
  2. 2
    Singer 66 The Singer 66 features a top-loading bobbin. Older models also have a stitch knob. Singer 66s are also the only model that has redeye decals featured on them. All Singers with redye decals are 66 models, but not every 66 model has redeye decals. [14]
    • Value: $45-$525. Typically around $150.
    • Factors That Influence Value: Redeye variations are typically valued higher than the standard 66 models. Older models that are in good condition are worth more.
  3. 3
    Singer 99 The Singer 99 model is often confused for the 66 model. The Singer 99 is ¾ sized, whereas the 66 is full-sized. This means the distance between the pillar and the needle is smaller on 99 models, coming in at around 6 inches. [15] The Singer 99 lacks inspection plates and has a near-flat face plate. [16]
    • Value: $49-$350. Typically $129.
    • Factors That Influence Value: The 99K variation has a slightly higher or lower price, depending on the year it was produced.
  4. 4
    Singer 201 The Singer 201 often gets confused for the 66 model, as it’s an upgraded version. They both have the top-loading bobbin system. Some 201 models have lights fitted to the front of the machine, while others have them fitted onto the back. The stitch adjuster is the main way to differentiate this model from the 66, as the 201 tends to feature a molded circle around the stitch adjuster. [17]
    • Value: $85-$895. Typically $250.
    • Factors That Influence Value: If all of the parts are included and the machine is in working condition, your Singer 201 is typically worth more.
  5. 5
    Singer 185 The Singer 185 is the first Singer sewing machine to feature the model name on the machine. It is typically on the stitch adjuster or just below it. While this doesn’t vary much from other models, it does have its own variation: the 185K, which is a specific model that was built in Scotland [18]
    • Value: $75-$330. Typically around $150
    • Factors That Influence Value: The variation, where you sell it, and product significance can influence this model’s value, as it was the first to feature model names on its housing.
  6. 6
    Singer 15 The Singer 15 has different variations, including the 15-90, the 15-91, and the 15-125. The tension disks are located on the faceplant, whereas other machines have them on the arm. It also features a side-loading bobbin. [19]
    • Value: $65-$2,000. Typically $300.
    • Factors That Influence Value: Model type, age, and condition.
    • 15-90s have bolt-on motors, while 15-91s have potted motors.
  7. 7
    Singer Touch & Sew The touch & sew model has white and brown casing with a top-loading bobbin. Each touch & sew model has a white button towards the bottom that activates the bobbin winding system. It also has the “Touch & Sew” model name at the bottom of the pillar. [20]
    • Value: $25-$350. Typically $100.
    • Factors That Influence Value: As different variations go up in age, they also go up in price.
  8. 8
    Singer Featherweight Singer Featherweights are the most sought-after model of old Singer sewing machines. They were designed to be lightweight and portable, which made them popular among sewists who traveled. It is also known for its reliability and exceptional stitch quality. Its reliability and historical significance make the Featherweight model highly sought after among collectors. [21]
    • Value: $325-$6,000. Typically $500.
    • Factors That Influence Value: Featherweight models that include the original accessories are worth more than models without accessories.
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Section 5 of 6:

How to Sell Your Old Singer Sewing Machine

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  1. 1
    Consult with experts to determine the value of your sewing machine. Doing your own online research can help you determine the value of your machine, but when you're ready to sell, it's a good idea to check out online and local sewing machine and/or antiques experts for their insights.
    • Online: Visit the International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society (ISMACS) or Catawiki Auctions to research similar sewing machines and their prices, and check out vintage sewing machine Facebook groups.
      • Also look at general auction and resale sites like eBay or Craigslist to see how much your particular machine may be going for.
    • Local: Visit a sewing machine shop or attend a sewing machine fair to consult with an expert. If this isn't feasible, your local antiques dealer or pawn shop owner may have a lot to tell you about your machine's value.
  2. If you have an old Singer sewing machine that’s in high demand and in good condition, you may want to get it off your hands. But if you have one that’s in fair condition, has lots of copies, and has a fluctuating demand, you may want to hold onto it for a bit longer. [22]
    • Remember, specific models have higher demands in certain parts of the world, so you may want to check various markets before deciding to sell.
  3. 3
    Connect with buyers on Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. These online markets are great places to connect with potential buyers. Create a listing advertising your machine, including detailed, high-quality photos and a thorough description.
    • The description should include info about the model, make, special features, functionality, whether the machine comes with original accessories, etc.
  4. Sometimes that old Singer sewing machine is in your family’s basement for a reason. It may be a family heirloom that an old family member vowed to keep in the family. It may hold sentimental value to one or multiple family members. When you sell a family heirloom, it may be nearly impossible to get back. So, carefully give it thought and talk with trusted family members to see if it’s something you should keep. [23]
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Section 6 of 6:

History of Singer Sewing Machines

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  1. Isaac Singer invented the Singer machine, which made sewing more accessible. The first sewing machine was invented by Elias Howe and patented in 1846. [24] In 1851, Isaac Singer patented the Singer sewing machine. It improved on existing sewing machine designs by providing a wooden treadle, which freed the sewer’s hands. It also had the fabric resting on a table, whereas Howe’s held the fabric vertically with pins. [25]
    • As the Singer Sewing Machine Company grew, they expanded from Boston to Indiana, New York, Germany, and other areas across the world, strengthening Singer’s influence worldwide.

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      References

      1. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/
      2. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/
      3. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Model_Type_and_Features
      4. ↑ https://www.singer.com/pages/sewing-machine-value-what-is-your-sewing-machine-worth
      5. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Aesthetic_Details_and_Decoration
      6. ↑ https://www.doubleveil.net/zssmp/worth.htm
      7. ↑ https://www.singer.com/pages/sewing-machine-value-what-is-your-sewing-machine-worth
      8. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Singer_Model_12
      9. ↑ https://www.singersewinginfo.co.uk/15#google_vignette
      1. ↑ https://www.singer.com/pages/sewing-machine-value-what-is-your-sewing-machine-worth
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?t=57&si=lZAiBfhx_vZ49V6U
      3. ↑ https://vintagesewingmachinesblog.wordpress.com/2017/01/04/vibrating-shuttle-machines/
      4. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Singer_Model_27_and_127
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?si=HnAKGe0dPPUoODne&t=122
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?si=RQxn-dgMrAEanDQx&t=252
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/E0mqOJtCHIY?si=2eKhHv6lDBxitreV&t=65
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?si=u8i869g0pXy9nYRY&t=304
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?si=uAVpVmOSHaEMg3vq&t=391
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      11. ↑ https://youtu.be/cXGhEydbbMY?si=cASVMXhBiqLRJj2M&t=521
      12. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Singer_Featherweight_221_and_222
      13. ↑ https://northshorecrafts.com/how-much-is-a-singer-sewing-machine-worth/#Tips_for_Evaluating_and_Pricing_Your_Singer_Sewing_Machine
      14. ↑ https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/lifestyle/around-town/2009/03/19/pause-before-you-sell-family/21548505007/
      15. ↑ https://historycambridge.org/innovation/Sewing%20Machine.html
      16. ↑ https://www.historymuseumsb.org/singer-sewing-machine-company/

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